TUESDAY, MAY 9
1 Corinthians 3:10-15
1 Corinthians 9:24-27

"But let every man take heed
how he buildeth thereupon."

TAKE HEED HOW YOU BUILD!

Every contractor must be faithful in his duties when constructing a building. Otherwise, the building may fail. Similarly, in the constructing of Christ’s spiritual building, every co-contractor must take heed how he builds!

Paul issued two admonitions to the co-contractors of God’s spiritual building. Firstly, Paul warned that everyone must build on the right foundation. As stated in yesterday’s devotion, this foundation is none other than the Written Word (the Bible) and the Living Word (Christ). No builder is to do any work that contradicts God’s Work. No man is to preach any other gospel other than the true gospel of the Scriptures. Woe betide any who teaches false doctrines or preaches a false gospel. Neither is any to think of doing anything that is contrary to the teaching of the Holy Scriptures. When churches stop teaching God’s Word, and employ worldly techniques to draw in the crowds, they are building upon a false foundation!

Secondly, there will be a coming judgment. All the works of the contractors will one day be judged by God. Every construction project is subject to strict guidelines and building codes. Proper inspection is done before the building can be occupied. Similarly, God demands that the building must be built according to His standards. God will test the building materials using fire. This points to the rigour of God’s testing.

Paul grouped the building materials into two categories. The first category consisted of good materials: gold, silver and precious stones. Under testing, these materials abided. The second category consisted of poor materials: wood, hay and stubble. Under severe testing, they would be burnt up. Which category do our works belong to? Will our works stand in the coming day of judgment at the Judgment Seat of Christ?

THOUGHT: What is God’s role for me in the body of Christ?
PRAYER: Lord, may I faithfully do Thy bidding.