1 Corinthians 3:11
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Other foundation can no man lay - I do not speak particularly concerning the foundation of this spiritual building; it can have no other foundation than Jesus Christ: there cannot be two opinions on this subject among the true apostles of our Lord. The only fear is, lest an improper use should be made of this heavenly doctrine; lest a bad superstructure should be raised on this foundation.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Isa 28:16; Act 4:12; Eph 2:20). For--my warning ("take heed," &c. Co1 3:10) is as to the superstructure ("buildeth thereupon"), not as to the foundation: "For other foundation can no man lay, than that which has (already) been laid (by God) Jesus Christ," the person, not the mere abstract doctrine about Him, though the latter also is included; Jesus, GOD-SAVIOUR; Christ, MESSIAH or ANOINTED. can--A man can not lay any other, since the only one recognized by God has been already laid.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For other foundation can no man lay,.... Men may attempt to lay other foundations than Christ, and build upon them, but to no purpose; they will be of no avail; all besides him are sandy foundations; such as fleshly privileges, a carnal descent, a religious education, an external profession of religion, a man's own righteousness, and the absolute mercy of God; but men ought to lay no other, nor can they, that will be of any advantage to themselves or others: than that which is laid; by Jehovah the Father, both in his eternal counsels and covenant, when he set forth and appointed Christ to be the Saviour and Redeemer of his people; and in the fulness of time, when he sent him forth under the same characters; and by the Spirit of God, when he reveals Christ to them, and forms him in them; and by the ministers of the Gospel, who jointly agree to lay him ministerially, as the foundation for souls to build their hope upon: hence he is called the "foundation of the apostles and prophets", as here, which is Jesus Christ; he is the foundation personally considered, as God-man and Mediator, on which the church, and every believer is built; he is the foundation of the covenant of grace, and of eternal salvation; of the faith and hope, peace, joy, and comfort of all the saints; and of the building of God, that house not made with hands, that city which has foundations, eternal glory in the other world; and he is the foundation, doctrinally considered; or the doctrines of his proper, deity, of his divine and eternal sonship, of his incarnation, of his Messiahship, of his obedience, sufferings, death, and resurrection from the dead, of justification by his righteousness, pardon by his blood, and atonement by his sacrifice, &c. are fundamental ones: the Jews were wont to call the principal articles of their religion, "foundations": Maimondes has entitled one of his tracts, "the foundations of the law"; but the doctrines respecting the person, offices, and grace of Christ, are the only foundation of the Gospel.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here the apostle informs us what foundation he had laid at the bottom of all his labours among them - even Jesus Christ, the chief corner-stone, Eph 2:20. Upon this foundation all the faithful ministers of Christ build. Upon this rock all the Christians found their hopes. Those that build their hopes of heaven on any other foundation build upon the sand. Other foundation can no man lay besides what is laid - even Jesus Christ. Note, The doctrine of our Saviour and his mediation is the principal doctrine of Christianity. It lies at the bottom, and is the foundation, of all the rest. Leave out this, and you lay waste all our comforts, and leave no foundation for our hopes as sinners. It is in Christ only that God is reconciling a sinful world to himself, Co2 5:19. But of those that hold the foundation, and embrace the general doctrine of Christ's being the mediator between God and man, there are two sorts: - I. Some build upon this foundation gold, silver, and precious stones (Co1 3:12), namely, those who receive and propagate the pure truths of the gospel, who hold nothing but the truth as it is in Jesus, and preach nothing else. This is building well upon a good foundation, making all of apiece, when ministers not only depend upon Christ as the great prophet of the church, and take him for their guide and infallible teacher, but receive and spread the doctrines he taught, in their purity, without any corrupt mixtures, without adding or diminishing. II. Others build wood, hay, and stubble, on this foundation; that is, though they adhere to the foundation, they depart from the mind of Christ in many particulars, substitute their own fancies and inventions in the room of his doctrines and institutions, and build upon the good foundation what will not abide the test when the day of trial shall come, and the fire must make it manifest, as wood, hay, and stubble, will not bear the trial by fire, but must be consumed in it. There is a time coming when a discovery will be made of what men have built on this foundation: Every man's work shall be made manifest, shall be laid open to view, to his own view and that of others. Some may, in the simplicity of their hearts, build wood and stubble on the good foundation, and know not, all the while, what they have been doing; but in the day of the Lord their own conduct shall appear to them in its proper light. Every man's work shall be made manifest to himself, and made manifest to others, both those that have been misled by him and those that have escaped his errors. Now we may be mistaken in ourselves and others; but there is a day coming that will cure all our mistakes, and show us ourselves, and show us our actions in the true light, without covering or disguise: For the day shall declare it (that is, every man's work), because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work, of what sort it is, Co1 3:13. The day shall declare and make it manifest, the last day, the great day of trial; see Co1 4:5. Though some understand it of the time when the Jewish nation was destroyed and their constitution thereby abolished, when the superstructure which judaizing teachers would have raised on the Christian foundation was manifested to be no better than hay and stubble, that would not bear the trial. The expression carries in it a plain allusion to the refiner's art, in which the fire separates and distinguishes the dross from the gold and silver; as it also will silver and gold and precious stones, that will endure the fire, from wood and hay and stubble, that will be consumed in it. Note, There is a day coming that will as nicely distinguish one man from another, and one man's work from another's, as the fire distinguishes gold from dross, or metal that will bear the fire from other materials that will be consumed in it. In that day, 1. Some men's works will abide the trial - will be found standard. It will appear that they not only held the foundation, but that they built regularly and well upon it - that they laid on proper materials, and in due form and order. The foundation and the superstructure were all of a piece. The foundation-truths, and those that had a manifest connection with them, were taught together. It may not be so easy to discern this connection now, nor know what works will abide the trial then; but that day will make a full discovery. And such a builder shall not, cannot fail of a reward. He will have praise and honour in that day, and eternal recompence after it. Note, Fidelity in the ministers of Christ will meet with a full and ample reward in a future life. Those who spread true and pure religion in all the branches of it, and whose work will abide in the great day, shall receive a reward. And, Lord, how great! how much exceeding their deserts! 2. There are others whose works shall be burnt (Co1 3:15), whose corrupt opinions and doctrines, or vain inventions and usages in the worship of God, shall be discovered, disowned, and rejected, in that day - shall be first manifested to be corrupt, and then disapproved of God and rejected. Note, The great day will pluck off all disguises, and make things appear as they are: He whose work shall be burnt will suffer loss. If he have built upon the right foundation wood and hay and stubble, he will suffer loss. His weakness and corruption will be the lessening of his glory, though he may in the general have been an honest and an upright Christian. This part of his work will be lost, turning no way to his advantage, though he himself may be saved. Observe, Those who hold the foundation of Christianity, though they build hay, wood, and stubble, upon it, may be saved. This may help to enlarge our charity. We should not reprobate men for their weakness: for nothing will damn men but wickedness. He shall be saved, yet so as by fire, saved out of the fire. He himself shall be snatched out of that flame which will consume his work. This intimates that it will be difficult for those that corrupt and deprave Christianity to be saved. God will have no mercy on their works, though he may pluck them as brands out of the burning. On this passage of scripture the papists found their doctrine of purgatory, which is certainly hay and stubble: a doctrine never originally fetched from scripture, but invented in barbarous ages, to feed the avarice and ambition of the clergy, at the cost of those who would rather part with their money than their lusts, for the salvation of their souls. It can have no countenance from this text, (1.) Because this is plainly meant of a figurative fire, not of a real one: for what real fire can consume religious rites or doctrines? (2.) Because this fire is to try men's works, of what sort they are; but purgatory-fire is not for trial, not to bring men's actions to the test, but to punish for them. They are supposed to be venial sins, not satisfied for in this life, for which satisfaction must be made by suffering the fire of purgatory. (3.) Because this fire is to try every man's works, those of Paul and Apollos, as well as those of others. Now, no papists will have the front to say apostles must have passed through purgatory fires.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:11 There can never be any other foundation for the church than Jesus Christ himself (see Isa 28:16; 1 Pet 2:4-8; cp. Rom 9:33), but the Corinthians were in danger of treating a human teacher as their foundation.
1 Corinthians 3:11
Christ Our Foundation
10By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds.11For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Revelation and Reason
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones5.0K55:00Revelation1CO 1:301CO 2:21CO 2:161CO 3:111CO 3:161CO 3:181CO 6:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the inadequacy of human reason and scientific knowledge when it comes to understanding the message of the Gospel. He highlights the vast difference between the eternal, holy Trinity and the limited abilities of mankind. The message of the Gospel is that despite humanity's rebellion and the chaos it has brought upon itself, God had a plan from the beginning to bring glory to believers. The preacher urges the audience to consider the character of God and the subject matter of the Gospel, which is beyond the realm of science and human understanding.
Road to Reality - to Live Is Christ - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan3.0K26:04Abundant LifePSA 73:25MAT 6:33MRK 16:15JHN 9:25ACT 1:8ROM 14:171CO 3:11In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his mother's sacrificial love for God and others. Despite being tired and worn out, his mother had a radiant glow on her face because of her love for Jesus. She secretly supported young people studying in Bible school and those already on the mission field by sending them money every month without telling anyone. The speaker reflects on his initial misunderstanding of his mother's actions and realizes the depth of her love and commitment to Jesus.
The Flesh and the Spirit
By Dennis Kinlaw1.9K1:02:23Flesh And SpiritGEN 17:17MAT 6:33ROM 8:11CO 3:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the two ways one can live - in the flesh or in the spirit. He refers to the book of Romans and Galatians to emphasize this point. Living in the flesh leads to death, while living in the spirit leads to life. The preacher also shares the story of Thomas Aquinas, highlighting the importance of having a personal relationship with Christ rather than relying on one's own accomplishments.
Judgment Seat of Christ - Part 1 (Alternative 2)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K58:20Judgment SeatMAT 25:31ROM 14:101CO 3:111CO 6:32CO 5:10REV 20:11REV 22:12In this sermon, Brother Gordon Best expresses gratitude for the hospitality and support he has received during his time at the church. He acknowledges that preaching can elicit different reactions from people, making them sad, mad, or glad. He humbly recognizes that no one can do God a favor, regardless of their sacrifices. The sermon focuses on the neglected aspect of eschatology, specifically the judgment seat of Christ. Brother Best mentions the judgment of the unsaved and the judgment of believers, referencing passages from the book of Revelation and the first epistle of Paul to the Corinthians.
What Love Is This? - Part 4
By Dave Hunt1.9K09:49MAT 7:15ACT 17:11ROM 16:171CO 3:11GAL 1:6EPH 4:14COL 2:82TI 3:162PE 2:11JN 4:1This sermon delves into the influence of Augustine on Calvinism and Reformed theology, highlighting Augustine's impact on Roman Catholic Church doctrines such as infant baptism, salvation through the church and sacraments, and allegorical interpretation of the Bible. It also explores the surprising connection between Augustine and the Protestant Reformation, with figures like Calvin and Luther heavily influenced by his writings. The sermon addresses the implications of these historical ties on modern church practices and the importance of understanding the origins of theological beliefs.
The Horizon of Christ - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks1.5K44:47ChristACT 1:8ACT 9:1ROM 6:41CO 3:112CO 6:17PHP 3:101TH 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the limitless power of Jesus to give life. Despite the limited time he spent on earth, Jesus was able to touch and heal countless people, even raising the dead. However, through his resurrection, Jesus released his life as a spiritual power for all mankind to receive. The speaker encourages listeners to live in the reality of Jesus' resurrection and allow his life to transform and empower them.
Preparing for Spiritual Awakening as Men
By Gordon Bailey1.4K47:12Spiritual AwakeningPRO 22:6MAT 6:33MAT 12:361CO 3:11EPH 6:41TI 6:11JAS 5:12In this sermon, the speaker expresses concern about the current state of Christianity and emphasizes the importance of personal growth and transformation. He shares a personal anecdote about his son exhibiting his own bad habits, which serves as a reminder of the influence we have on others. The speaker also discusses the need for Christians to support and restore one another, using the analogy of jumper cables to illustrate the importance of handling delicate situations with care. He concludes by addressing the issue of moral failures within the church, including television evangelism, and highlights the need for spiritual awakening and preparation in order to prevent further falls.
A Prophet to the Nations (Jeremiah 1)
By John Dees1.3K1:09:46ISA 55:10JER 1:5MAT 10:28MAT 28:19JHN 3:161CO 3:61CO 3:112CO 5:202TI 2:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, starting with acknowledging our sinfulness and need for a Savior. It highlights the process of breaking down false foundations, confronting sin, and pointing people to Jesus Christ as the only solution. The message encourages believers to be bold in sharing the Gospel, to not be afraid of opposition, and to focus on building up and planting seeds of faith in others, guiding them to maturity in Christ.
(Compilation) a Cry for Revival
By Leonard Ravenhill1.2K16:471CO 3:11This sermon emphasizes the need for revival in the church, highlighting the complacency that hinders it and the urgency for a spiritual awakening. It calls for a return to a deep love for God and a demonstration of true Christianity, focusing on living a holy life empowered by the Holy Spirit. The speaker challenges believers to examine their lives and prioritize devotion to God, reminding them of the eternal consequences of their choices.
Are You Prepared for the Judgment Seat of Christ
By David Wilkerson1.0K54:53Judgment SeatJER 29:13MAT 7:24ROM 14:101CO 3:112CO 5:10HEB 9:27HEB 12:15In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the listeners to seek Jesus with all their hearts and to be diligent in their pursuit of God. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the judgment seat of Christ. The preacher shares an anecdote about a taxi driver who identifies himself as a "son of a living God" and highlights the need for believers to know their identity in Christ. He then discusses the qualifications for standing confidently before the judgment seat of Christ, including not being slothful or lazy in the things of God and being diligent in prayer and the work of God. The sermon concludes with a call to grow in knowledge of Christ and be prepared for the judgment seat.
Mid South Conference 1981-06 the People of Israel
By Aldy Fam Fanous96729:36IsraelGEN 19:22DAN 1:8MAT 28:20ROM 8:1ROM 14:101CO 3:112CO 5:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of Christians being like Daniel, standing firm in their faith regardless of the circumstances. He references 1 Corinthians 3:11, which states that Jesus Christ is the foundation upon which all believers should build their lives. The preacher highlights the idea that every person's work will be revealed and judged by fire, and those whose work remains will receive a reward. The sermon concludes with the preacher expressing gratitude for the invitation and welcoming received.
What Is Your Responsibility
By Stephen Kaung8621:09:49MAT 25:14LUK 12:421CO 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being faithful and responsible with the gifts that God has given us. He uses the parable of the talents to illustrate this point, highlighting how the servants who traded and multiplied their talents were praised, while the one who buried his talent was rebuked. The preacher also reminds the audience that we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, and those who believe in Jesus will be saved from eternal death. He urges listeners to respond to God's gifts by loving and honoring Him, and by using their talents and time to serve Him. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and a reminder that as long as there is still time, there is opportunity to fulfill God's purpose in our lives.
The Kingdom and the Christian
By Stephen Kaung8551:05:441CO 3:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being careful in how we build our lives. He uses the analogy of building with different materials, such as gold, silver, and precious stones, which represent the nature of God, the redemption of Christ, and the work of the Holy Spirit. On the other hand, building with wood, grass, and straw represents the nature, beauty, and work of man. The speaker warns that if we build with the latter materials, our work will be consumed by fire and we will suffer loss, although we will still be saved. However, if we build with the former materials, even though it may cost us dearly, our work will be rewarded and we will enter into the kingdom of heaven. The speaker concludes by praying for God's guidance and thanking Him for His faithfulness throughout the conference.
(The Recovery of the Apostolic) 1. the Rise of Anabaptism
By Dale Heisey8041:08:09JHN 10:27ACT 2:411CO 3:111PE 1:181JN 4:5In this sermon, the speaker begins by mentioning a choice he would have liked to present visually but is unable to due to time constraints. He then describes a scenario where a young Catholic couple, hungry for God's word, seeks guidance on the way of God. The speaker asks a young man to share the message of God's holiness with them. The sermon emphasizes the importance of practicing what Jesus taught and following in his steps. The speaker concludes by inviting the audience to follow the Lord Jesus Christ.
When Jesus Is There
By Erlo Stegen8021:11:31JOS 24:16JHN 2:1JHN 2:31CO 3:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana. He emphasizes the significance of this miracle, highlighting how Jesus chose to reveal his power in a humble community rather than making a grand announcement. The preacher also draws parallels between the reactions of the people at the wedding and the communist ideology, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present rather than just hoping for future rewards. Additionally, the preacher shares a personal story about a wealthy man who made a donation to a mission, highlighting the contrast between his showy gesture and Jesus' humble approach.
First Fruits
By Michael Koulianos4334:15First FruitsChristian LifeSpiritual Foundations1SA 30:6PSA 51:11PRO 22:6MAT 6:33ROM 11:161CO 3:11GAL 5:22HEB 12:1JAS 1:51PE 5:7Michael Koulianos emphasizes the significance of 'first fruits' in our spiritual lives, drawing from Romans 11:16 to illustrate that the beginnings of our actions and commitments to God are crucial. He encourages the congregation to return to the basics of faith, such as prayer, scripture reading, and generosity, especially as they enter a new year filled with opportunities for growth and building a new church structure. Koulianos highlights the importance of maintaining purity in our spiritual roots and being intentional about the battles we choose to engage in, urging believers to focus on what truly matters in their walk with God. He calls for a season of simplicity and devotion, inviting everyone to participate in a Daniel fast as a way to dedicate the first part of the year to God. Ultimately, he reminds the church that their foundation is built on Jesus, and they must remain focused on His presence and guidance.
The Word of Knowledge by the Same Spirit
By Smith Wigglesworth0The Role of the Holy SpiritThe Word of KnowledgePSA 118:22ISA 1:25MRK 10:40JHN 16:8ROM 8:91CO 3:111CO 12:8EPH 2:202TI 3:15HEB 11:12Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the importance of the word of knowledge through the Holy Spirit, urging believers to fully embrace God's revelation and mix it with faith for it to be effective. He highlights that Christ is the unshakeable foundation upon which we must build our lives, and that the gifts of the Spirit, including knowledge, are essential for spiritual growth and revival. Wigglesworth encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, stressing that true knowledge and faith come from the Spirit, leading to transformation and empowerment to impact the world. He also shares personal experiences to illustrate the power of faith and the necessity of being fully yielded to the Holy Spirit for effective ministry.
Gatherings of Assembly Character
By H.J. Vine0MAT 16:18MAT 18:201CO 1:91CO 3:111CO 10:17EPH 2:21EPH 4:16HEB 10:25HEB 13:15REV 22:16H.J. Vine preaches about the importance of maintaining gatherings of an assembly character, emphasizing the dangers of being carried to extremes during seasons of revival and the need to stay grounded in the faith. He highlights the significance of understanding the present truth of Christ and the assembly, and the ongoing construction of the assembly as the bride of Christ. Vine stresses the value of these gatherings for both believers and God, as they lead to spiritual growth, edification, and preparation for the glorious return of Jesus Christ.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Winckler! - Part 2
By Leonard Verduin0JHN 18:20ACT 5:29ROM 12:21CO 3:11GAL 1:10EPH 2:201TI 2:1JAS 4:41PE 2:5Leonard Verduin delves into the historical struggles faced by early Christians, 'heretics,' Waldensians, and Reformers in maintaining their faith and gatherings amidst opposition from the Church and authorities. The sermon highlights the challenges of secrecy, persecution, and the clash between different religious ideologies, particularly regarding the establishment of public cults and the role of civil rulers in religious matters. Verduin emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's beliefs, even in the face of adversity and the temptation to conform to societal norms, drawing parallels between past struggles and the ongoing quest for religious freedom and authenticity.
1 Peter 2:6
By John Gill0Assurance in FaithChrist as CornerstonePSA 118:22ISA 28:16MAT 7:24ROM 10:111CO 3:11EPH 2:202TI 1:12HEB 13:51PE 2:61JN 2:28John Gill emphasizes the significance of Christ as the chief cornerstone, as prophesied in Isaiah 28:16, highlighting His divine selection and preciousness to both God and humanity. He explains that Christ not only strengthens and adorns the spiritual building of the church but also unites believers across all ages and places. Gill reassures that those who believe in Christ will not be ashamed or confounded, as their faith provides safety and confidence both in this life and the next. The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing Christ's role in our spiritual lives and the assurance that comes from trusting in Him.
Christ Teacheth Humility
By C.I. Scofield0JOB 8:6MAT 1:1MRK 10:35LUK 14:12LUK 19:12ROM 8:181CO 3:11REV 3:21C.I. Scofield preaches on the lesson from Mark 10:35-45, highlighting the misconception of prayer as a means to fulfill personal desires and ambitions, emphasizing the importance of true submission to God's wisdom and love in prayer. Jesus teaches that true greatness in His kingdom is achieved through suffering and service, not through seeking positions of power and authority for self-gratification. The path to the throne in God's kingdom is paved with humility, sacrificial service, and a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of others.
The Church--Its Identity
By Benjamin Franklin0MAT 16:18JHN 14:6ACT 2:47ACT 4:121CO 1:101CO 3:11EPH 2:20COL 1:181TI 3:152TI 3:16Benjamin Franklin preaches about the true identity of the Church, emphasizing that the community referred to as 'my Church' by Jesus is often misunderstood and spoken against by those outside of it. He delves into the importance of being part of the body of Christ, highlighting that to be in the Church is to be in Christ, in a justified and pardoned state, enjoying the benefits of His sacrifice and presence. Franklin stresses the significance of being founded on the right foundation, established in the right place and time, and following the law given by Jesus, the head of the Church. He challenges the notion of successions in churches, advocating for a return to the original teachings, worship, and authority of Christ.
Matt. 16:13-20. He Pronounces a Blessing Upon Peter.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 16:13MAT 16:18JHN 20:22ACT 4:111CO 3:112CO 4:6EPH 2:201PE 2:4Favell Lee Mortimer delves into a sacred moment of Jesus and His disciples in Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus commends Peter for his bold confession of faith that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Mortimer emphasizes that true faith in Christ comes from God alone and is the foundation of salvation. The sermon explores the significance of Christ as the eternal rock on which the church is built, protected from the powers of darkness. It also highlights how Jesus entrusted His apostles, including Peter, with the keys of the kingdom of heaven, symbolizing their authority to proclaim the Gospel and forgive sins.
What Think Ye of Christ?
By J.C. Ryle0Reflecting on ChristmasThe Importance of ChristMAT 7:13JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 10:91CO 3:11PHP 3:18HEB 4:141PE 2:241JN 5:12REV 22:12J.C. Ryle emphasizes the significance of reflecting on Christ during Christmas, urging believers to consider the true meaning of the holiday beyond festivities. He challenges the audience to evaluate their thoughts about Christ, highlighting that all men should recognize His role as the Mediator and Savior. Ryle categorizes common misconceptions about Christ, from blasphemous to vague thoughts, and contrasts them with the high, trustful, and hopeful thoughts of true Christians. He concludes by pressing the question, 'What think ye of Christ?' and encourages readers to cultivate right thoughts about Him for a truly joyful Christmas.
The Pearl of Great Price
By J.S. Lamar0ISA 55:1MAT 13:45JHN 4:23ROM 14:11CO 3:11EPH 4:3COL 2:8HEB 4:9REV 21:2J.S. Lamar preaches on the parable of the merchantman seeking goodly pearls from Matthew 13, highlighting the dual sense of the Scriptures and the different periods or ages represented by the seven parables in the chapter. He discusses the historical progression of the Church from the seed-sowing age to the Reformation and the current age of investigation and seeking truth. Lamar emphasizes the importance of unity in faith in Jesus Christ amidst denominational differences and the need to focus on the 'pearl of great price.' He encourages the Church to hold fast to the fundamental principle of faith in Christ and obedience to His commandments, anticipating the ultimate rest and home in Heaven.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Other foundation can no man lay - I do not speak particularly concerning the foundation of this spiritual building; it can have no other foundation than Jesus Christ: there cannot be two opinions on this subject among the true apostles of our Lord. The only fear is, lest an improper use should be made of this heavenly doctrine; lest a bad superstructure should be raised on this foundation.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Isa 28:16; Act 4:12; Eph 2:20). For--my warning ("take heed," &c. Co1 3:10) is as to the superstructure ("buildeth thereupon"), not as to the foundation: "For other foundation can no man lay, than that which has (already) been laid (by God) Jesus Christ," the person, not the mere abstract doctrine about Him, though the latter also is included; Jesus, GOD-SAVIOUR; Christ, MESSIAH or ANOINTED. can--A man can not lay any other, since the only one recognized by God has been already laid.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For other foundation can no man lay,.... Men may attempt to lay other foundations than Christ, and build upon them, but to no purpose; they will be of no avail; all besides him are sandy foundations; such as fleshly privileges, a carnal descent, a religious education, an external profession of religion, a man's own righteousness, and the absolute mercy of God; but men ought to lay no other, nor can they, that will be of any advantage to themselves or others: than that which is laid; by Jehovah the Father, both in his eternal counsels and covenant, when he set forth and appointed Christ to be the Saviour and Redeemer of his people; and in the fulness of time, when he sent him forth under the same characters; and by the Spirit of God, when he reveals Christ to them, and forms him in them; and by the ministers of the Gospel, who jointly agree to lay him ministerially, as the foundation for souls to build their hope upon: hence he is called the "foundation of the apostles and prophets", as here, which is Jesus Christ; he is the foundation personally considered, as God-man and Mediator, on which the church, and every believer is built; he is the foundation of the covenant of grace, and of eternal salvation; of the faith and hope, peace, joy, and comfort of all the saints; and of the building of God, that house not made with hands, that city which has foundations, eternal glory in the other world; and he is the foundation, doctrinally considered; or the doctrines of his proper, deity, of his divine and eternal sonship, of his incarnation, of his Messiahship, of his obedience, sufferings, death, and resurrection from the dead, of justification by his righteousness, pardon by his blood, and atonement by his sacrifice, &c. are fundamental ones: the Jews were wont to call the principal articles of their religion, "foundations": Maimondes has entitled one of his tracts, "the foundations of the law"; but the doctrines respecting the person, offices, and grace of Christ, are the only foundation of the Gospel.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here the apostle informs us what foundation he had laid at the bottom of all his labours among them - even Jesus Christ, the chief corner-stone, Eph 2:20. Upon this foundation all the faithful ministers of Christ build. Upon this rock all the Christians found their hopes. Those that build their hopes of heaven on any other foundation build upon the sand. Other foundation can no man lay besides what is laid - even Jesus Christ. Note, The doctrine of our Saviour and his mediation is the principal doctrine of Christianity. It lies at the bottom, and is the foundation, of all the rest. Leave out this, and you lay waste all our comforts, and leave no foundation for our hopes as sinners. It is in Christ only that God is reconciling a sinful world to himself, Co2 5:19. But of those that hold the foundation, and embrace the general doctrine of Christ's being the mediator between God and man, there are two sorts: - I. Some build upon this foundation gold, silver, and precious stones (Co1 3:12), namely, those who receive and propagate the pure truths of the gospel, who hold nothing but the truth as it is in Jesus, and preach nothing else. This is building well upon a good foundation, making all of apiece, when ministers not only depend upon Christ as the great prophet of the church, and take him for their guide and infallible teacher, but receive and spread the doctrines he taught, in their purity, without any corrupt mixtures, without adding or diminishing. II. Others build wood, hay, and stubble, on this foundation; that is, though they adhere to the foundation, they depart from the mind of Christ in many particulars, substitute their own fancies and inventions in the room of his doctrines and institutions, and build upon the good foundation what will not abide the test when the day of trial shall come, and the fire must make it manifest, as wood, hay, and stubble, will not bear the trial by fire, but must be consumed in it. There is a time coming when a discovery will be made of what men have built on this foundation: Every man's work shall be made manifest, shall be laid open to view, to his own view and that of others. Some may, in the simplicity of their hearts, build wood and stubble on the good foundation, and know not, all the while, what they have been doing; but in the day of the Lord their own conduct shall appear to them in its proper light. Every man's work shall be made manifest to himself, and made manifest to others, both those that have been misled by him and those that have escaped his errors. Now we may be mistaken in ourselves and others; but there is a day coming that will cure all our mistakes, and show us ourselves, and show us our actions in the true light, without covering or disguise: For the day shall declare it (that is, every man's work), because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work, of what sort it is, Co1 3:13. The day shall declare and make it manifest, the last day, the great day of trial; see Co1 4:5. Though some understand it of the time when the Jewish nation was destroyed and their constitution thereby abolished, when the superstructure which judaizing teachers would have raised on the Christian foundation was manifested to be no better than hay and stubble, that would not bear the trial. The expression carries in it a plain allusion to the refiner's art, in which the fire separates and distinguishes the dross from the gold and silver; as it also will silver and gold and precious stones, that will endure the fire, from wood and hay and stubble, that will be consumed in it. Note, There is a day coming that will as nicely distinguish one man from another, and one man's work from another's, as the fire distinguishes gold from dross, or metal that will bear the fire from other materials that will be consumed in it. In that day, 1. Some men's works will abide the trial - will be found standard. It will appear that they not only held the foundation, but that they built regularly and well upon it - that they laid on proper materials, and in due form and order. The foundation and the superstructure were all of a piece. The foundation-truths, and those that had a manifest connection with them, were taught together. It may not be so easy to discern this connection now, nor know what works will abide the trial then; but that day will make a full discovery. And such a builder shall not, cannot fail of a reward. He will have praise and honour in that day, and eternal recompence after it. Note, Fidelity in the ministers of Christ will meet with a full and ample reward in a future life. Those who spread true and pure religion in all the branches of it, and whose work will abide in the great day, shall receive a reward. And, Lord, how great! how much exceeding their deserts! 2. There are others whose works shall be burnt (Co1 3:15), whose corrupt opinions and doctrines, or vain inventions and usages in the worship of God, shall be discovered, disowned, and rejected, in that day - shall be first manifested to be corrupt, and then disapproved of God and rejected. Note, The great day will pluck off all disguises, and make things appear as they are: He whose work shall be burnt will suffer loss. If he have built upon the right foundation wood and hay and stubble, he will suffer loss. His weakness and corruption will be the lessening of his glory, though he may in the general have been an honest and an upright Christian. This part of his work will be lost, turning no way to his advantage, though he himself may be saved. Observe, Those who hold the foundation of Christianity, though they build hay, wood, and stubble, upon it, may be saved. This may help to enlarge our charity. We should not reprobate men for their weakness: for nothing will damn men but wickedness. He shall be saved, yet so as by fire, saved out of the fire. He himself shall be snatched out of that flame which will consume his work. This intimates that it will be difficult for those that corrupt and deprave Christianity to be saved. God will have no mercy on their works, though he may pluck them as brands out of the burning. On this passage of scripture the papists found their doctrine of purgatory, which is certainly hay and stubble: a doctrine never originally fetched from scripture, but invented in barbarous ages, to feed the avarice and ambition of the clergy, at the cost of those who would rather part with their money than their lusts, for the salvation of their souls. It can have no countenance from this text, (1.) Because this is plainly meant of a figurative fire, not of a real one: for what real fire can consume religious rites or doctrines? (2.) Because this fire is to try men's works, of what sort they are; but purgatory-fire is not for trial, not to bring men's actions to the test, but to punish for them. They are supposed to be venial sins, not satisfied for in this life, for which satisfaction must be made by suffering the fire of purgatory. (3.) Because this fire is to try every man's works, those of Paul and Apollos, as well as those of others. Now, no papists will have the front to say apostles must have passed through purgatory fires.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:11 There can never be any other foundation for the church than Jesus Christ himself (see Isa 28:16; 1 Pet 2:4-8; cp. Rom 9:33), but the Corinthians were in danger of treating a human teacher as their foundation.