Verse
Context
Christ Our Foundation
11For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.12If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,13his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man’s work.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any men build - gold, silver, etc. - Without entering into curious criticisms relative to these different expressions, it may be quite enough for the purpose of edification to say, that, by gold, silver, and precious stones, the apostle certainly means pure and wholesome doctrines: by wood, hay, and stubble, false doctrines; such as at that time prevailed in the Corinthian Church; for instance, that there should be no resurrection of the body; that a man may, on his father's death, lawfully marry his step-mother; that it was necessary to incorporate much of the Mosaic law with the Gospel; and, perhaps, other matters, equally exceptionable, relative to marriage, concubinage, fornication, frequenting heathen festivals, and partaking of the flesh which had been offered in sacrifice to an idol; with many other things, which, with the above, are more or less hinted at by the apostle in these two letters.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now--rather, "But." The image is that of a building on a solid foundation, and partly composed of durable and precious, partly of perishable, materials. The "gold, silver, precious stones," which all can withstand fire (Rev 21:18-19), are teachings that will stand the fiery test of judgment; "wood, hay, stubble," are those which cannot stand it; not positive heresy, for that would destroy the foundation, but teaching mixed up with human philosophy and Judaism, curious rather than useful. Besides the teachings, the superstructure represents also the persons cemented to the Church by them, the reality of whose conversion, through the teachers' instrumentality, will be tested at the last day. Where there is the least grain of real gold of faith, it shall never be lost (Pe1 1:7; compare Co1 4:12). On the other hand, the lightest straw feeds the fire [BENGEL] (Mat 5:19).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now if any man build upon this foundation,.... The different materials laid by one and the same man, on this foundation, or the different doctrines advanced upon it, are some of them comparable to gold, silver, precious stones; for their intrinsic worth and value; for the purity and sincerity of them; for their weight, importance, solidity, and substantiality; for their durableness; for the great esteem they are had in by those, who know the worth of them; and for the great usefulness they are of unto them, being rich in themselves, and enriching to them; and these are the great, momentous, and valuable truths of the Gospel, which agree with and are suitable to the foundation they are built upon: so the Jews (m) compare their oral and written law, the former to gold, and the latter to precious stones, but the metaphors much better suit the doctrines of the Gospel: others are like to wood, hay, stubble; by which are meant, not heretical doctrines, damnable heresies, such as are diametrically opposite to, and overturn the foundation; for one and the same man builds the former, as these, and is himself saved at last; neither of which is true, of such that deliver doctrines of devils: but empty, trifling, useless things are meant; such as fables, endless genealogies, human traditions, Jewish rites and ceremonies; which through the prejudice of education, and through ignorance and inadvertency, without any bad design, might by some be introduced into their ministry, who had been brought up in the Jewish religion; as also the wisdom of the world, the philosophy of the Gentiles, oppositions of science falsely so called, curious speculations, vain and idle notions, which such who had their education among the Greeks might still retain, and be fond of; and through an itch of vain glory, mix with their evangelic ministrations; and in a word, everything that may now be advanced in the Gospel ministry, not so honourable to the grace of God, or so becoming the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ, nor so consistent with the Spirit's work of grace, may be meant hereby; the same minister at different times, and sometimes at one and the same time in his ministry, lays the foundation, Christ, and builds on it for a while excellent valuable truths, raises a superstructure of gold, silver, and precious stones, and then covers the edifice with trifling, impertinent, and inconsistent things, with wood, hay, and stubble; and so at last, of this promising fine stately building, makes a thatched house, (m) Koheleth Jaacob in Caphtor, fol. 109. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:12-15 Some of the things that people build on the foundation of Christ will endure; other things will burn up in the fire of judgment (cp. Mal 4:1). On judgment day, the work of each builder who instructs the church will be assessed (cp. Jas 3:1; see also Rom 14:10-12; 2 Cor 5:10). Those whose teachings are faithful and true will receive a reward; the others will suffer great loss, not of their salvation but of their reward. They themselves will be saved, but just barely, like someone pulled to safety through a wall of flames (cp. Amos 4:11; Zech 3:2; Jude 1:23).
Christ Our Foundation
11For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.12If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,13his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man’s work.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Wood, Hay, and Stubble"
By Leonard Ravenhill4.1K00:141CO 3:12This sermon emphasizes the contrast between the visible, superficial aspects of public ministry that may be like wood, hay, and stubble - catching attention but lacking true value, and the hidden, foundational work that is like silver, gold, and precious stones - unseen but enduring. It warns about the potential for public ministry to be consumed like ashes if not built on a solid, genuine foundation.
Christ - Part 2 (Compilation)
By Compilations3.3K07:49Compilation1CO 3:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living with the reality of eternity and everlasting life in mind. He highlights the temporary nature of this world, including our bodies, and warns against being deceived by the facade of lastingness that it presents. The preacher urges the church to be motivated by the return of Jesus Christ and the eternal rewards that await those who serve Him. He emphasizes that our works and ministries should be done in light of eternity and the judgment we will face before God.
"Shame and Humiliation"
By Leonard Ravenhill3.0K00:231CO 3:12This sermon reflects on the profound statement by Dr. Tozer about the potential regret of not fully embracing the riches found in Jesus Christ when facing eternity. It emphasizes the importance of living a life fully surrendered to Christ, so that we may not come before the judgment seat empty-handed but with hearts enriched by the grace and love of Jesus.
Lessons From Lot
By Brian Brodersen2.6K45:491CO 3:12This sermon delves into the life of Lot from the book of Genesis, highlighting his attraction to the world, his compromise with worldly values, and the consequences of his choices. It emphasizes the importance of not compromising with the world as Christians, the need to prioritize spiritual growth and fellowship, and the dangers of sowing to the flesh. The sermon urges believers to add to their faith virtues like knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love to avoid the pitfalls of a wasted life like Lot's.
He Is Love
By George Warnock2.4K50:12Love Of GodPSA 133:1MAT 6:33MAT 22:37JHN 17:151CO 3:12PHP 1:91TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Dunmighty who was told by God to set his house in order because all that he produced was wood, hay, and stubble. The speaker then references Paul's letter to the Philippians, where he prays for their love to abound more and more. The speaker recounts a conversation with a man who suggested that love is all that is needed and that doctrine and other things should be forgotten. The speaker introduces George, who has the gift of exhortation, and emphasizes the importance of both reading and exhortation in Timothy's letter from Paul. The speaker also highlights the need for unity among believers and the importance of seeking God's glory in reaching the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the highest form of relationship with God is when one lays down everything for His sake, and that only what proceeds from His Spirit and anointing is important in the sight of God. The speaker warns against being deceived by a mighty ministry or gifts, as all works will be judged by God on the day of judgment.
The Judgement Seat of Christ (Macedonian)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K1:20:111CO 3:12This sermon delves into the concept of the final judgment, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to God and living a life devoted to Him. It explores the idea of standing before the judgment seat of Christ, where every aspect of one's life will be examined, from devotional practices to words spoken and actions taken. The sermon highlights the need for a deep prayer life, sacrificial giving, and obedience to God's will, pointing to the eternal consequences of our choices and actions.
(Through the Bible) 2 Corinthians 5
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:11:261CO 3:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of seeking recognition and praise from others for our religious actions. He warns against the temptation to draw attention to ourselves and our spirituality in order to receive accolades from people. Instead, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life that is motivated by the love of Christ. He encourages believers to let the love of Christ be the driving force in their lives, rather than seeking validation from others. The speaker also reminds listeners of the assurance they have in their salvation through the Holy Spirit and encourages them to walk by faith and not by sight.
Revival Prayer for America
By E.A. Johnston54814:36America1CO 3:12In this sermon, the preacher calls upon God to send revival and a spiritual awakening to America. He acknowledges the current state of lawlessness, immorality, and perversion in the nation, attributing it to turning away from God. The preacher pleads for forgiveness for the sins of the nation, including violence, sexual immorality, and idolatry. He emphasizes the need for repentance, desperate prayer, and a return to faith in God's word.
1 Corinthians 3:12-15
By St. John Chrysostom2PSA 49:20MRK 9:441CO 3:12COL 3:10HEB 10:31John Chrysostom preaches about the eternal consequences of our actions, emphasizing the importance of building our lives on the foundation of Christ with valuable materials like gold, silver, and precious stones, rather than worthless materials like wood, hay, and stubble. He delves into the topic of whether hell fire has an end, citing biblical references to highlight the severity of eternal punishment for those who reject God's mercy and continue in sin. Chrysostom challenges his listeners to consider the justice of God's punishment, pointing out that even one sin can have grave consequences, and he urges them to repent and turn away from wickedness to avoid eternal suffering.
The Sorrows of Backsliding
By John R. Rice2PRO 14:14JER 2:191CO 3:121CO 11:30HEB 12:5John R. Rice preaches about the consequences of backsliding, emphasizing that God chastises His beloved children when they sin, as seen in Hebrews 12:5,6. He uses examples like David's sin and the Corinthians' misconduct to illustrate how God punishes His children for their sins, showing that God is more determined to discipline Christians than lost people. Rice warns that backsliding leads to personal chastisement, natural consequences of sin, and remorse of conscience, urging backsliders to return to God before facing a bitter and sorrowful path.
Choices and Decisions
By John Follette1MAT 25:211CO 3:122CO 5:10GAL 6:7REV 22:12John Follette emphasizes the significance of the choices and decisions we make in shaping our character and determining our future in the spiritual realm. He highlights that our actions and surrender in this life have a direct impact on what we will experience in the afterlife, stressing the importance of living faithfully and making righteous decisions now. Follette challenges the misconception that heaven will be a place of instant reward, explaining that the true reward lies in the growth of qualities like faithfulness that we cultivate here, projecting them onto a higher plane in the future.
The Division of Soul and Spirit
By William MacDonald1Distinction of Spirit and SoulSpiritual IntegrityMAT 6:19JHN 4:24ROM 12:11CO 3:12GAL 5:22EPH 6:12PHP 4:8COL 3:21TH 5:23HEB 4:12William MacDonald emphasizes the distinction between the spirit and soul in the life of a believer, highlighting that the spirit connects us with God while the soul relates to our emotions and passions. He critiques the modern tendency to prioritize the body and soulish activities over spiritual matters, urging the church to focus on genuine worship, prayer, and service that glorifies Christ. MacDonald warns against the dangers of soulish practices that draw attention to self rather than God, and he calls for a return to spiritual integrity in the church's activities and outreach.
Xxxviii. to Mr William Dalgleish
By Samuel Rutherford0ROM 8:371CO 3:122CO 2:15PHP 1:61PE 1:6Samuel Rutherford, in a heartfelt letter, expresses his deep joy in seeing the growth of grace and zeal in God among his fellow believers despite his own trials and sufferings. He finds solace in Christ as a kind fellow prisoner, welcoming the cross that visits him, believing in a triumphant future beyond his current struggles. Rutherford wrestles with doubts and fears, yet remains steadfast in his faith, desiring to glorify Christ even in the midst of uncertainty and loss. He encourages his brother to stand firm in serving Christ with a pure conscience, emphasizing the importance of sanctification to withstand trials.
Are You Perishing? the Reason for Our Being
By Paris Reidhead0GEN 1:26MAT 27:5JHN 3:16ACT 17:301CO 3:122CO 5:10Paris Reidhead preaches about the urgency of repentance and the impending judgment by God, as seen in Acts 17:23-31. He emphasizes that sin is not just an inherited condition but a deliberate choice to rebel against God, leading to a criminal aspect that must be addressed at the cross. Reidhead delves into the concept of 'perishing,' highlighting the tragic waste of failing to fulfill the intended purpose of our existence, which is to be in a loving relationship with God. He challenges the audience to live each day in full fellowship with God, allowing Him to work through them to avoid squandering time and facing regret at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
Homily 2 on Eutropius
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 4:19MAT 9:9LUK 23:43ACT 9:4ROM 8:321CO 3:121CO 15:412TI 4:7John Chrysostom preaches about the beauty of the soul and the importance of obedience to God as the true source of grace. He emphasizes that corporeal beauty is fixed by nature, while spiritual beauty of the soul, such as temperance, love, and righteousness, is a result of moral disposition and obedience to God. Chrysostom uses the analogy of a bride adorned with a vesture woven with gold to illustrate the transformation of the ungraceful soul into one full of grace through obedience and faith. He urges the congregation to forget their past sins and worldly attachments, and to focus on cultivating inner beauty that pleases the King, symbolizing God's desire for a soul adorned with virtues.
The Uncommitted "Christian"
By David Servant0MAT 7:21JHN 15:1ROM 8:131CO 3:12JAS 2:14David Servant preaches about the importance of true faith being evidenced by deeds, emphasizing the inseparable correlation between belief and behavior. He highlights the need for believers to surrender to Jesus, obey His commands, and demonstrate their faith through actions. Through various biblical examples and analogies, he challenges the notion of being a 'carnal Christian' and stresses the necessity of commitment and obedience in true discipleship, ultimately showing that genuine faith always results in a transformed life.
The Trial by Fire of Every Man's Work
By J.C. Philpot0ISA 28:16MAT 16:171CO 3:121CO 6:191PE 1:7J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of building our spiritual lives on the foundation of Christ, emphasizing the need for a superstructure of faith, hope, and love that is in harmony with the foundation. He warns against the dangers of legalism, self-righteousness, and false religion, likening them to wood, hay, and stubble that will be consumed by the fire of God's testing. Philpot urges believers to ensure their spiritual building materials are gold, silver, and precious stones, representing valuable and enduring truths, graces, and manifestations of God's love.
The Principles of Missions
By Paris Reidhead0MAT 1:21LUK 2:52JHN 17:20JHN 20:21ACT 13:2ROM 12:11CO 3:12GAL 2:20Paris Reidhead emphasizes three key principles of missions: the Bible is a missionary book, the church is a missionary society, and every believer is involved in the missionary task. He challenges individuals to recognize their role in spreading the Gospel, whether locally or globally, and to allow Christ to work through them. Reidhead shares a powerful vision of standing before God with the works of one's life being tested, urging listeners to live a life dedicated to serving Christ and bringing Him glory.
Things That Last
By J.R. Miller0Eternal ImpactLove in Action1CO 3:12J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of building a life on eternal values rather than temporary, superficial achievements. He warns against living a life that leaves no lasting impact, comparing it to building with perishable materials like wood and straw instead of gold and silver. Miller encourages believers to focus on love and service, as these are the only actions that will endure beyond this life. He illustrates that even small acts of kindness, when done with love, can create lasting memories and blessings. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to meaningful contributions that enrich both our character and the world around us.
Letter 131.
By James Bourne0JOB 37:14PSA 25:91CO 3:122CO 10:4EPH 5:15James Bourne emphasizes the importance of not relying on worldly wisdom or methods to appease others, but to instead trust in God's ways and seek His purposes, even in times of trials and difficulties. He encourages believers to fear God and make decisions that honor Him, even if it goes against the norms of society. Bourne highlights the significance of showing courage in following Christ, seeking fellowship with other believers, and finding strength in the Lord during times of oppression and despise.
(A Spiritual Leader) 9. Serving by God's Power
By Zac Poonen0MAT 15:12MAT 23:31CO 3:122CO 3:5GAL 1:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of spiritual leaders doing all their work in the will of God, by the power of God, and for the glory of God. He highlights that true servants of the new covenant are equipped and made adequate by God, and therefore cannot take credit for their labors. Poonen stresses the significance of recognizing whether what is being shared is produced by God or by human effort, cautioning against pride in ministry. He warns against relying solely on human abilities and methods in ministry, emphasizing the necessity of the Holy Spirit's power for lasting impact.
The Seriousness of Living
By J.R. Miller0Building Up OthersResponsibility in Christian Living1CO 3:12J.R. Miller emphasizes the seriousness of life, urging that every action and word carries moral weight and contributes to either blessing or cursing the world. He illustrates the partnership between God and man in all endeavors, particularly in spiritual work, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in our responsibilities. Miller warns against carelessness, as it can lead to the loss of souls and the marred work of God. He stresses that our contributions to others' lives must be of lasting value, akin to gold and silver, rather than worthless materials. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to building up rather than tearing down, reflecting the gentleness and love of Christ.
Things That Endure
By J.R. Miller0Enduring ImpactLove in Action1CO 3:12J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of living a life that produces enduring results, contrasting the fleeting nature of many human endeavors with the lasting impact of love and kindness. He illustrates that while many pursuits may seem significant, they often leave no lasting legacy, akin to building 'birds' nests' that are easily swept away. Instead, he encourages individuals to focus on actions inspired by love for Christ and others, which create lasting treasures in the spiritual realm. Miller reminds us that even small acts of kindness can leave a profound and enduring impression on the lives of others. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to meaningful contributions that will be remembered and cherished long after we are gone.
Are All Believers Overcomers?
By J. Sidlow Baxter0LUK 19:171CO 3:121CO 9:252TI 2:12REV 3:21J. Sidlow Baxter preaches about the promise of reigning with Christ on His Messianic throne during His millennial reign, where evil will be subjugated, righteousness and peace will prevail, and war will be no more. The privilege of sitting with Jesus on His throne is reserved for the overcomers, emphasizing the need for believers to strive for victory in their faith journey. Just as there are degrees of punishment in hell, there are degrees of reward in heaven, highlighting the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in overcoming trials and temptations to receive a greater reward.
Concerning the End Part Two
By Richard E. Bieber0ISA 58:10MAT 25:11CO 3:12Richard E. Bieber delivers a sermon based on the parables in Matthew 25, emphasizing the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands and grace. The sermon tells the story of a man who was adopted by the King but neglected his obligations, leading to his eventual downfall. It highlights the significance of endurance, bearing fruit for the Kingdom, and showing mercy to those in need as essential aspects of a believer's life. The parables stress that eternal life belongs to those who faithfully follow God's instructions and live lives marked by His mercy and compassion.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any men build - gold, silver, etc. - Without entering into curious criticisms relative to these different expressions, it may be quite enough for the purpose of edification to say, that, by gold, silver, and precious stones, the apostle certainly means pure and wholesome doctrines: by wood, hay, and stubble, false doctrines; such as at that time prevailed in the Corinthian Church; for instance, that there should be no resurrection of the body; that a man may, on his father's death, lawfully marry his step-mother; that it was necessary to incorporate much of the Mosaic law with the Gospel; and, perhaps, other matters, equally exceptionable, relative to marriage, concubinage, fornication, frequenting heathen festivals, and partaking of the flesh which had been offered in sacrifice to an idol; with many other things, which, with the above, are more or less hinted at by the apostle in these two letters.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now--rather, "But." The image is that of a building on a solid foundation, and partly composed of durable and precious, partly of perishable, materials. The "gold, silver, precious stones," which all can withstand fire (Rev 21:18-19), are teachings that will stand the fiery test of judgment; "wood, hay, stubble," are those which cannot stand it; not positive heresy, for that would destroy the foundation, but teaching mixed up with human philosophy and Judaism, curious rather than useful. Besides the teachings, the superstructure represents also the persons cemented to the Church by them, the reality of whose conversion, through the teachers' instrumentality, will be tested at the last day. Where there is the least grain of real gold of faith, it shall never be lost (Pe1 1:7; compare Co1 4:12). On the other hand, the lightest straw feeds the fire [BENGEL] (Mat 5:19).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now if any man build upon this foundation,.... The different materials laid by one and the same man, on this foundation, or the different doctrines advanced upon it, are some of them comparable to gold, silver, precious stones; for their intrinsic worth and value; for the purity and sincerity of them; for their weight, importance, solidity, and substantiality; for their durableness; for the great esteem they are had in by those, who know the worth of them; and for the great usefulness they are of unto them, being rich in themselves, and enriching to them; and these are the great, momentous, and valuable truths of the Gospel, which agree with and are suitable to the foundation they are built upon: so the Jews (m) compare their oral and written law, the former to gold, and the latter to precious stones, but the metaphors much better suit the doctrines of the Gospel: others are like to wood, hay, stubble; by which are meant, not heretical doctrines, damnable heresies, such as are diametrically opposite to, and overturn the foundation; for one and the same man builds the former, as these, and is himself saved at last; neither of which is true, of such that deliver doctrines of devils: but empty, trifling, useless things are meant; such as fables, endless genealogies, human traditions, Jewish rites and ceremonies; which through the prejudice of education, and through ignorance and inadvertency, without any bad design, might by some be introduced into their ministry, who had been brought up in the Jewish religion; as also the wisdom of the world, the philosophy of the Gentiles, oppositions of science falsely so called, curious speculations, vain and idle notions, which such who had their education among the Greeks might still retain, and be fond of; and through an itch of vain glory, mix with their evangelic ministrations; and in a word, everything that may now be advanced in the Gospel ministry, not so honourable to the grace of God, or so becoming the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ, nor so consistent with the Spirit's work of grace, may be meant hereby; the same minister at different times, and sometimes at one and the same time in his ministry, lays the foundation, Christ, and builds on it for a while excellent valuable truths, raises a superstructure of gold, silver, and precious stones, and then covers the edifice with trifling, impertinent, and inconsistent things, with wood, hay, and stubble; and so at last, of this promising fine stately building, makes a thatched house, (m) Koheleth Jaacob in Caphtor, fol. 109. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:12-15 Some of the things that people build on the foundation of Christ will endure; other things will burn up in the fire of judgment (cp. Mal 4:1). On judgment day, the work of each builder who instructs the church will be assessed (cp. Jas 3:1; see also Rom 14:10-12; 2 Cor 5:10). Those whose teachings are faithful and true will receive a reward; the others will suffer great loss, not of their salvation but of their reward. They themselves will be saved, but just barely, like someone pulled to safety through a wall of flames (cp. Amos 4:11; Zech 3:2; Jude 1:23).