Join us as we focus each day for nine weeks on a different part of 1 Corinthians 13.
Wednesday: It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking.
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:11
Read: 1 Corinthians 3:10-15
Listen: 1 Corinthians 3
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Paul built the church in Corinth with the precision of a master builder. He laid a careful foundation in Christ using building blocks of weakness, humility and sacrifice. It wasn’t just an idea and philosophy; it was hard work modeled in living the way of Christ. This foundation countered the Corinthian “look at me” life built on arrogance, pride and bragging.
Paul urges the Corinthians to be careful how they build on the foundation of Christ. Work done in the power of the flesh—by ourselves and for ourselves—will not withstand God’s fiery test. Rather, work done in God’s power—with humility, faith and obedience—will withstand the judgment fire.
It can be easy for us to do the work of Christ—not in the way of Christ. We can serve for recognition or to build a resume. We can show up pursuing praise or power. We can believe our cause is just, so we cut others down. If we serve for any reason other than as a humble servant of Christ—our work will go up in flames. Watch this video clip as Pastor Jeff Manion cautions about being careful how we build.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Evaluate your attitudes toward serving. Do you serve out of obligation, guilt or pride or out of humble service to Christ? Are there reasons you aren’t serving? Maybe it’s not convenient, things didn’t go your way or you didn’t feel appreciated? Pray a recommitment to serve, “Father, I desire to serve because you first served us. Grow a humble attitude in me today.”
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
