Let every man take heed how he buildeth

Against the background of the closing verses of our previous meditation, it is sad to read of the carnality of these Christians. But what is carnality? It is evident in dwarfism, v. 1. There was no growth at Corinth. They had not progressed. They were still babes. There is evidence of deadness, v. 2. These believers seemed to have no appetite for divine truth. When they should have moved on to meat they were still content with milk. There is also evidence of division, v. 3. Petty jealousies had led to strife and strife had resulted in division. Rather than building up they were pulling down. Distortion, v. 4. The focus of the message is not the preacher! Carnality distorts our view of what is important and what is not!

To counter the problem of carnality Paul reminds the Corinthians of some vital facts. (1) God gives the resources, v. 5. It is not a matter of Paul or Apollos. They are merely servants, gifted of God. Equally, God gives the increase, v. 7. The results of the preaching are not simply a consequence of the actions or words of the preacher. (2) God expects unity, v. 8. This means unity amongst the workers and a subjection to the overall purposes of the God with whom we are ‘fellow-workmen’ v. 9 JND. (3) God provides regulation, v. 9. The emphasis is upon the fact that ‘ye are God’s’. We work to His command and to His plan!

In the latter half of this chapter Paul teaches the truth of accountability, ‘every man’s work shall be made manifest’, v. 13. Hence, how important it is to build in an appropriate way! The manner of the building is important. The foundation is given, v. 11. What is built upon must be in keeping with the one who is the foundation of the building. This requires discernment and examination. We must also think about the materials for the building, v. 12. As with the manner in which we build, so it is with the materials. The intrinsic worth of the Person who forms the foundation is undisputed. Let us look to use materials of spiritual value. After all, the building is God’s, v. 17! But how amazing that there is merit in building, vv. 14, 15! What receives reward? That which abides! Let us build that which will abide and bring God the glory.