1 Corinthians 3:15
Verse
Context
Sermons
J. Vernon McGee
Bob Phillips
Robert F. AdcockJames K. Boswell
T. Austin-Sparks
J.H. NewmanSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss - If he have preached the necessity of incorporating the law with the Gospel, or proclaimed as a doctrine of God any thing which did not proceed from heaven, he shall suffer loss - all his time and labor will be found to be uselessly employed and spent. Some refer the loss to the work, not to the man; and understand the passage thus: If any man's work be burned, It shall suffer loss - much shall be taken away from it; nothing shall he left but the measure of truth and uprightness which it may have contained. But he himself shall be saved - If he have sincerely and conscientiously believed what he preached, and yet preached what was wrong, not through malice or opposition to the Gospel, but through mere ignorance, he shall be saved; God in his mercy will pass by his errors; and he shall not suffer punishment because he was mistaken. Yet, as in most erroneous teachings there is generally a portion of wilful and obstinate ignorance, the salvation of such erroneous teachers is very rare; and is expressed here, yet so as by fire, i.e. with great difficulty; a mere escape; a hair's breadth deliverance; he shall be like a brand plucked out of the fire. The apostle obviously refers to the case of a man, who, having builded a house, and begun to dwell in it, the house happens to be set on fire, and he has warning of it just in time to escape with his life, losing at the same time his house, his goods, his labor, and almost his own life. So he who, while he holds the doctrine of Christ crucified as the only foundation on which a soul can rest its hopes of salvation, builds at the same time, on that foundation, Antinomianism, or any other erroneous or destructive doctrine, he shall lose all his labor, and his own soul scarcely escape everlasting perdition; nor even this unless sheer ignorance and inveterate prejudice, connected with much sincerity, be found in his case. The popish writers have applied what is here spoken to the fire of purgatory; and they might with equal propriety have applied it to the discovery of the longitude, the perpetual motion, or the philosopher's stone; because it speaks just as much of the former as it does of any of the latter. The fire mentioned here is to try the man's work, not to purify his soul; but the dream of purgatory refers to the purging in another state what left this impure; not the work of the man, but the man himself; but here the fire is said to try the work: ergo, purgatory is not meant even if such a place as purgatory could be proved to exist; which remains yet to be demonstrated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If . . . be burnt--if any teacher's work consist of such materials as the fire will destroy [ALFORD]. suffer loss--that is, forfeit the special "reward"; not that he shall lose salvation (which is altogether a free gift, not a "reward" or wages), for he remains still on the foundation (Co1 3:12; Jo2 1:6). saved; yet so as by fire--rather, "so as through fire" (Zac 3:2; Amo 4:11; Jde 1:23). "Saved, yet not without fire" (Rom 2:27) [BENGEL]. As a builder whose building, not the foundation, is consumed by fire, escapes, but with the loss of his work [ALFORD]; as the shipwrecked merchant, though he has lost his merchandise, is saved, though having to pass through the waves [BENGEL]; Mal 3:1-2; Mal 4:1, give the key to explain the imagery. The "Lord suddenly coming to His temple" in flaming "fire," all the parts of the building which will not stand that fire will be consumed; the builders will escape with personal salvation, but with the loss of their work, through the midst of the conflagration [ALFORD]. Again, a distinction is recognized between minor and fundamental doctrines (if we regard the superstructure as representing the doctrines superadded to the elementary essentials); a man may err as to the former, and yet be saved, but not so as to the latter (compare Phi 3:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
If any man's work shall be burnt,.... If any minister's doctrine he has preached shall be destroyed and disappear, shall be disapproved of, and rejected by the churches, not being able, to bear the light and heat of the fire of God's word: he shall suffer loss; of all his labour and pains he has been at, in collecting together such trifling, useless, and inconsistent things; and of all that glory and popular applause he might expect from men, on account of them, and which was the snare that drew him into such a way of preaching: but he himself shall be saved; with an everlasting salvation; not by his ministerial labours, much less by his wood, hay, and stubble, which will be all burnt up; but through his being, notwithstanding all the imperfections of his ministry, upon the foundation Christ: yet so as by fire; with much difficulty, and will be scarcely saved; see Pe1 4:17 with great danger, loss, and shame; as a man that is burnt out of house and home, he escapes himself with his own life, but loses all about him: so the Syriac version reads it, , "as out of the fire": see Zac 3:2. Or the sense is, that he shall be tried by the fire of the word, and convinced by the light of it of the errors, irregularities, and inconsistencies of his ministry; either in his time of life and health, or on a death bed; and shall have all his wood, hay, and stubble burnt up, for nothing of this kind shall he carry with him in his judgment to heaven; only the gold, silver, and precious stones; and will find that the latter doctrines, and not the former, will only support him in the views of death and eternity.
1 Corinthians 3:15
Christ Our Foundation
14If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward.15If it is burned up, he will suffer loss. He himself will be saved, but only as if through the flames.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) Genesis 18:1-8
By J. Vernon McGee2.9K05:54GenesisGEN 18:1MAT 6:331CO 3:15In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the hospitality of Abraham as described in Genesis 18. Abraham is depicted as a gracious and hospitable man, exemplifying a blessed Christian life in fellowship with God. When three men appear to him, Abraham immediately runs to meet them and extends his hospitality by offering them water to wash their feet and rest under a tree. The preacher emphasizes the importance of showing hospitality to strangers and highlights Abraham's willingness to serve and provide for his guests.
The Carnal Christian - Part 1
By Bob Phillips6641:26:35Carnal ChristianMAT 6:331CO 3:11CO 3:151TI 4:72TI 4:3TIT 1:14HEB 5:12In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the dangers of false teachings and the importance of sound doctrine. He warns that in the last days, people will be exploited by those driven by greed. The speaker emphasizes the need to follow the teachings of the Bible rather than relying on traditions or wrong teachings. He also highlights the significance of godliness, stating that it is profitable for all things. The sermon encourages listeners to be discerning and to nourish themselves with the words of faith and sound doctrine.
Genesis 13
By Robert F. Adcock51733:22GenesisGEN 13:11ROM 12:21CO 3:152CO 5:102PE 2:62PE 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the rebellious spirit of the world against God and the need for humility and submission to His will. He contrasts this with the story of Joshua, a faithful servant of God who led the Israelites into the promised land. The preacher warns of the impending judgment that will fall upon the world and emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus as Savior to escape this judgment. He also highlights the danger of conforming to the ways of the world and emphasizes the need for Christians to live differently and reflect the image of Christ in their conduct.
What Is a Christian 12 Christian Is a Soldier
By James K. Boswell37852:10JOS 1:141CH 12:32MAT 6:331CO 3:152CO 4:62CO 4:8JAS 5:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a wholehearted and devoted life for God. He mentions the idea of a grand review or judgment that awaits every individual, where their entire life will be examined. The motives behind one's service to God will be tested, and the only acceptable motive is the love of Christ. The preacher urges the audience to surrender their lives completely to God and to strive for unselfishness and dedication in their service.
Pillars, Manna, Vindication, and Treasure in Heaven
By Mike Bickle261:13:03Heavenly RewardsOvercoming ChallengesISA 60:14MAT 6:20MAT 19:21LUK 12:37JHN 6:351CO 3:15GAL 2:9REV 2:17REV 3:12REV 22:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of being an overcomer in Christ, highlighting the promises found in Revelation 2 and 3, particularly the rewards of becoming pillars in God's temple, receiving hidden manna, and the treasure in heaven. He explains that these rewards are not just for all believers but specifically for those who overcome challenges and remain steadfast in their faith. Bickle encourages believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of love and commitment in their walk with Christ. He also discusses the vindication of believers before their persecutors and the reality of heavenly treasures, urging the congregation to invest in their spiritual future.
The Overcomer
By T. Austin-Sparks0OvercomingWorship of GodPSA 137:4JER 33:3ZEC 4:6MAT 4:101CO 3:15HEB 9:141JN 3:121JN 5:4REV 2:7REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of 'overcomers' in the Christian faith, highlighting that God uses advance parties to secure His purpose and inheritance. He argues that the spiritual reality of being an overcomer is not about selectiveness but about fulfilling a divine mission that reflects God's glory. The sermon stresses the importance of recognizing the rights of God through worship and the centrality of the Cross in achieving this. Sparks warns against complacency and encourages believers to fully commit to God's purpose, as the ultimate goal is the universal worship of God. He concludes that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out this calling, demanding a life dedicated to God's glory.
Against Romanism No Iii. on Purgatory
By J.H. Newman0ISA 4:4MAL 3:3MAT 12:32LUK 16:91CO 3:15Archbishop Ussher's Answer to a Jesuit leads to an inquiry about the Roman tenet of Purgatory, after deducting evidence from early Church usages. Ussher's explanations challenge the prima facie evidence supporting the doctrine. The sermon delves into the history of the rise of the doctrine of Purgatory, exploring the opinions in the early Church concerning it. The doctrine of Purgatory seems to have originated from the human mind's conjectures about future destinies, coinciding with obscure texts of Scripture, leading to various suppositions and speculations. The sermon highlights the influence of miracles, visions, and obscure texts in shaping the belief in Purgatory.
Exposition on Psalm 38
By St. Augustine0PRO 3:11ISA 53:7MAT 5:4MAT 27:461CO 3:15St. Augustine preaches about the deep sorrow and mourning of the Psalmist as he reflects on the Sabbath, symbolizing rest and peace. The Psalmist's groaning and tears reveal a longing for the Sabbath rest, representing a mourner seeking solace. Despite the Psalmist's suffering and the enemies' wrongful actions, he remains focused on confessing his sins and pursuing righteousness. The Psalmist's plea for God's presence and salvation reflects the ultimate hope for eternal rest and redemption in God.
Christian Fundamentalism -6
By Anton Bosch0ZEC 4:6LUK 21:33JHN 15:181CO 3:152CO 5:10JUD 1:3REV 20:11Anton Bosch concludes the series on Christian Fundamentalism by emphasizing the importance of accountability to God, highlighting the eternal consequences for both the unsaved and Christians based on their actions and faith. He stresses the distinction between Christian fundamentalism and radicalism, advocating for a peaceful and civil approach in promoting faith. Persecution is expected for believers, as the gospel prepares them to be rejected by the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that a fundamental Christian's life is built on Jesus Christ, offering a hopeful future in His everlasting heavenly kingdom.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss - If he have preached the necessity of incorporating the law with the Gospel, or proclaimed as a doctrine of God any thing which did not proceed from heaven, he shall suffer loss - all his time and labor will be found to be uselessly employed and spent. Some refer the loss to the work, not to the man; and understand the passage thus: If any man's work be burned, It shall suffer loss - much shall be taken away from it; nothing shall he left but the measure of truth and uprightness which it may have contained. But he himself shall be saved - If he have sincerely and conscientiously believed what he preached, and yet preached what was wrong, not through malice or opposition to the Gospel, but through mere ignorance, he shall be saved; God in his mercy will pass by his errors; and he shall not suffer punishment because he was mistaken. Yet, as in most erroneous teachings there is generally a portion of wilful and obstinate ignorance, the salvation of such erroneous teachers is very rare; and is expressed here, yet so as by fire, i.e. with great difficulty; a mere escape; a hair's breadth deliverance; he shall be like a brand plucked out of the fire. The apostle obviously refers to the case of a man, who, having builded a house, and begun to dwell in it, the house happens to be set on fire, and he has warning of it just in time to escape with his life, losing at the same time his house, his goods, his labor, and almost his own life. So he who, while he holds the doctrine of Christ crucified as the only foundation on which a soul can rest its hopes of salvation, builds at the same time, on that foundation, Antinomianism, or any other erroneous or destructive doctrine, he shall lose all his labor, and his own soul scarcely escape everlasting perdition; nor even this unless sheer ignorance and inveterate prejudice, connected with much sincerity, be found in his case. The popish writers have applied what is here spoken to the fire of purgatory; and they might with equal propriety have applied it to the discovery of the longitude, the perpetual motion, or the philosopher's stone; because it speaks just as much of the former as it does of any of the latter. The fire mentioned here is to try the man's work, not to purify his soul; but the dream of purgatory refers to the purging in another state what left this impure; not the work of the man, but the man himself; but here the fire is said to try the work: ergo, purgatory is not meant even if such a place as purgatory could be proved to exist; which remains yet to be demonstrated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If . . . be burnt--if any teacher's work consist of such materials as the fire will destroy [ALFORD]. suffer loss--that is, forfeit the special "reward"; not that he shall lose salvation (which is altogether a free gift, not a "reward" or wages), for he remains still on the foundation (Co1 3:12; Jo2 1:6). saved; yet so as by fire--rather, "so as through fire" (Zac 3:2; Amo 4:11; Jde 1:23). "Saved, yet not without fire" (Rom 2:27) [BENGEL]. As a builder whose building, not the foundation, is consumed by fire, escapes, but with the loss of his work [ALFORD]; as the shipwrecked merchant, though he has lost his merchandise, is saved, though having to pass through the waves [BENGEL]; Mal 3:1-2; Mal 4:1, give the key to explain the imagery. The "Lord suddenly coming to His temple" in flaming "fire," all the parts of the building which will not stand that fire will be consumed; the builders will escape with personal salvation, but with the loss of their work, through the midst of the conflagration [ALFORD]. Again, a distinction is recognized between minor and fundamental doctrines (if we regard the superstructure as representing the doctrines superadded to the elementary essentials); a man may err as to the former, and yet be saved, but not so as to the latter (compare Phi 3:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
If any man's work shall be burnt,.... If any minister's doctrine he has preached shall be destroyed and disappear, shall be disapproved of, and rejected by the churches, not being able, to bear the light and heat of the fire of God's word: he shall suffer loss; of all his labour and pains he has been at, in collecting together such trifling, useless, and inconsistent things; and of all that glory and popular applause he might expect from men, on account of them, and which was the snare that drew him into such a way of preaching: but he himself shall be saved; with an everlasting salvation; not by his ministerial labours, much less by his wood, hay, and stubble, which will be all burnt up; but through his being, notwithstanding all the imperfections of his ministry, upon the foundation Christ: yet so as by fire; with much difficulty, and will be scarcely saved; see Pe1 4:17 with great danger, loss, and shame; as a man that is burnt out of house and home, he escapes himself with his own life, but loses all about him: so the Syriac version reads it, , "as out of the fire": see Zac 3:2. Or the sense is, that he shall be tried by the fire of the word, and convinced by the light of it of the errors, irregularities, and inconsistencies of his ministry; either in his time of life and health, or on a death bed; and shall have all his wood, hay, and stubble burnt up, for nothing of this kind shall he carry with him in his judgment to heaven; only the gold, silver, and precious stones; and will find that the latter doctrines, and not the former, will only support him in the views of death and eternity.