1 Corinthians 3 challenges us to examine what we're building our lives and faith communities upon. Drawing from Paul's letter to the Corinthian church, we're confronted with a fundamental question: to what or whom do we truly belong? The imagery of foundations becomes central—just as archaeologists can determine the purpose and shape of ancient buildings from their foundations alone, our spiritual foundation determines everything that follows. Paul makes it clear that Jesus Christ is the only foundation that can support a lasting faith, yet the Corinthian church was struggling with divisions, attaching themselves to human leaders for status rather than building on Christ. We face similar temptations today, branding ourselves with affiliations that give us worldly recognition while missing the point entirely. The radical truth is that we are God's temple—not individually focused on ourselves, but collectively belonging to God. This means when we fight with one another or pursue self-promotion, we're actually profaning the very dwelling place of God. The call is to recognize that our church communities don't belong to us; they belong to God, and we're simply stewards. This shifts everything about how we plan, serve, and relate to one another, inviting us into prayer and dependence rather than self-sufficiency.
Paul describes the early church's tendency to attach themselves to particular leaders for status - in what ways do we still seek status or identity through our associations with certain Christian leaders, movements, or denominations today?
The sermon emphasizes that we are God's temple collectively rather than individually - how does this shift in perspective change the way we view conflict and unity within the church?
When Paul says leaders are 'fools for Christ' who are 'weak, dishonored, and homeless,' how does this contrast with modern expectations of successful Christian leadership and ministry?
What does it practically look like to 'build on the foundation of Jesus' in our daily decisions, relationships, and church planning rather than building on our own gifts and ideas?
The pastor mentions that Jesus didn't engage in 'culture wars' but instead loved those who were different - how should this shape the church's approach to cultural and political disagreements today?
Paul instructs believers to bless when cursed and answer kindly when slandered - what makes this cross-shaped response so difficult, and what would help us live this way more consistently?
If following Jesus means being seen as 'foolishness' and 'garbage' by the world, why are we often so uncomfortable with being perceived negatively for our faith?
How can we discern whether we're truly making Jesus our foundation or simply adding Him on as a helpful addition to our self-centered lives?
The sermon warns against making ourselves central while Jesus becomes just 'a way to manage our lives' - what are some signs that we've slipped into this pattern?
What would change in our church community if we genuinely embraced the truth that we don't own the church but are stewards of God's temple where He dwells?
.png)