1 Corinthians 3
1 Corinthians 3:9-11 – For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
When speaking to the Corinthians about their divisions (of following specific people), Paul wanted them to understand that they (the leaders) were all laborers together with God (1 Corinthians 3:3-8). He was given the grace of God to be a wise masterbuilder and have laid a foundation of Jesus Christ.
What is Doctrine?
Doctrine is considered an instruction or teaching that can be learned or developed through experience. Doctrine is associated with a person’s beliefs; the way they ‘see,’ perceive, or relate to the world around them. Each person has a countless number of doctrines on the issues, people, and situations they experience on a daily basis. The number of doctrines a person has is countless and continues to be shaped and expanded throughout a person’s lifetime.
Within Christianity, sound biblical doctrine is based on the biblical teachings, experiences, pastors, ministers, and interactions with fellow brothers and sisters in the local church community. Within the context of this message, doctrine will encompass God’s Word. God’s Word is the foundation of good sound doctrine:
2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
1. Be available. Windows of opportunity come unexpectedly.
2. If the opportunity to counsel came upon you suddenly, say a short prayer. Your prayer should focus on the Lord assisting the person; receiving an answer from the Lord; and the root issue is revealed.
3. They should speak more than you. Keep your comments short, simple, and to the point.
4. Allow the other person to tell their story – to share their heart.
Many times we cannot see how God will use something we do for Him today in the future. However, it should never discourage us from moving out in faith. Many of us may never see our seeds sprout, but we must not weary in well doing because it seems the storms of life will not let up (Ecclesiastes 11:4; 1 Corinthians 3:5-7; Galatians 6:9-10).
Step out into the areas of ministry the Lord is calling you to perform. He knows what He’s doing (even if you’re not sure of what He’s up to). He wants to be glorified and is entrusting you with His precious Word and gifts. Use His precious gifts well and treat them honorably and with integrity. Allow His name to be lifted up. Give Him praise! Write. Dance. Sing. Travel. Speak. Do what He’s calling you to do!
Photo courtesy of freeimages.com/Johanna Ljungblom
Matthew 5:39-48 – Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
In the world’s estimation, this would seem foolish to allow anyone run over you, but the wisdom of God will never be understood by the world (1 Corinthians 3:18-20). Although we may be treated wrong, we must persevere as the Lord directs.
We can cast our cares and burdens unto the Lord (Psalm 55:22; Matthew 11: 28-30; 1 Peter 5:6-7). If left alone, these cares and burdens can disrupt our minds, physical health, and family life. They do nothing but keep us bitter, angry, and distracted from the things which matter most – glorifying our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).
Situations like those given in Matthew 5:39-48 are our opportunities to grow and glorify the Lord. Through our patience and trust in the Lord (James 1:1-4), we are identified as perfect children of God.
Photo courtesy of Stock.XCHNG.com/_TekToNik
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