1 Corinthians chapter 3 talks a lot about construction. Paul discusses various ways that we ourselves are being constructed spiritually and he also discusses how we also are builders. He teaches us that the role of more mature believers is to serve as God's craftsman to fashion younger believers into strong structures. He tells us that this process of helping others find faith and grow in faith is a central part of our mission on earth. The foundation of our building must be Jesus Christ. As we grow we begin to influence others and become part of their construction crew. We must be careful to build with quality materials to make strong and lasting houses in the lives of others. Our work in others' lives will surely be tested, just as hurricane winds eventually blow on our Virginia homes. Our work in the lives of others will ultimately be judged and the criteria for quality workmanship will center around the "lasting" nature of our efforts. I think it is helpful to consider that when we help folks find the Lord and when we help folks grow and build solid spiritual lives, we are building not for this life alone...but for eternity. When you help another build on that sure foundation of the Lord, you are part of the "Temple Construction" crew of God. That's because the Spirit of God has made us His temple when we invite Him in. It is humbling to consider that our work in others' lives is like that of a craftsman building a gorgeous altar in a great cathedral.
We need to be temple builders and take care not to damage the temple. It is too precious and we are not the holders of the deed.
1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.
blessings,
Rob Smith
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