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Wise Builders

1 Corinthians 3:10-11
By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. (NIVUK)

Building is a complex business.  Many different skills are needed from architects to accountants and surveyors, and all the building trades.  God gave Paul the task of laying the foundations of Christ’s 'building', the church.  He was the evangelist missionary who presented the gospel about Jesus, who had risen from the dead.  Many believed in the city of Corinth.  Like new born babies they needed the 'milk of the Word' (1 Corinthians 3:2).  Paul started teaching them the 'Christian Basics';  and then others, including Apollos continued the spiritual feeding programme.

Paul's teaching was all about Jesus.  He is the foundation stone that Father God had planned for His building.  Isaiah 28:16 says, "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic."  Paul's job was to announce that the 'stone' was already in place and all who believe in Him would be incorporated into His church.

After Paul left Corinth, a variety of other teachers came; some teaching wrong things.  So Paul warned that the church must never accept any other foundation for their faith than Jesus  - crucified, raised and ascended.  Also, they must be careful to ensure that Jesus was kept as the focal point of their ministry (1 Corinthians 2:2).  

Some leaders today seem to thrive on having a new idea or doctrinal interpretation, and many people praise them for it.  But Paul was right.  There is no other foundation than Jesus Christ.  Yet all over the world inspiring but rogue preachers change the message to entice a new audience.  They major on what people can get out of Jesus rather than giving themselves in worship and service.  However, without the death of Christ there is no atonement, and without His resurrection there is no assurance of salvation.  The gospel message is not about how good we can feel in this life but about having our sins forgiven through the blood of Christ.  Choose your leaders carefully and follow those who follow Christ. 

Prayer 
Lord God. Thank You that Jesus is building His church and that I have been included as I put my trust in Him. Forgive me for ever accepting spiritual leadership which does not fully accept the authority of the Lordship of Christ. Please help me to keep coming back to Jesus as the only way into Your presence, the only sacrifice for sins and the only reason to have peace with You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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