By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
1 Corinthians 3:11-15 “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.”_The Corinthian church had alot of challenges, among them was division. They each claimed to follow different people; Paul, Peter, Appolos or Jesus. Paul described them as worldly with such divisions. The only foundation of salvation is Christ Jesus. All we can do is build on that foundation of Jesus figuratively using different materials of gold, silver, stones, wood, hay or straw. Fire will test our works.Paul refers to the Day of judgment in which our works will be tested to prove their quality. We are all builders in the service of God one way or another. The difference is in the materials we are using. The gold, silver, costly stones which stand the fire represent quality works. The wood, hay and straw represent poor quality works which will be burnt up. But the person will be saved. How are we building on the foundation? Some are preaching the gospel and serving with wrong motives, to build their names, as a means of financial gain, to outwit others, for fame, etc. That’s building using straw or hay which will burn up. Others are serving to truly honor God, glorify Him and lead people to Him as guided by God’s kind of love. Some may pretend to be serving God, and yet with hidden motives. Some are genuine. Whatever the case, the nature and quality of all our works will be revealed by fire on the Day we appear before God. It’s better to examine oneself early ensure you are using quality materials to build._Romans 14:12 “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”__Revelation 22:12 “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”_Shalom children of God.