1 Corinthians 3:14–15
Memory Verse
If someone’s works remain, that which he has built, he will receive reward. If someone’s works are burned up, he will suffer loss, but he himself will be saved, and thus as through fire (1 Corinthians 3:14–15).
At the Bema (reward) seat of Christ, the works of all who are in the Church will be examined to determine their worthiness (2 Corinthians 5:10). Works built through self-effort will not survive the test by fire. The grace believer will not receive a reward for such works. Thus, all those in the Church will be presented before the Father in a blameless state (1 Thessalonians 3:13).
With this outcome in mind, let us focus on building on the foundation that is Christ. We should not be carried away by strange doctrines involving food, touch not, taste not, observation of days, or things that relate to the basic principles of the world (Hebrews 13:9). These types of practices have nothing more than an appearance of wisdom in self-made religion, humility, and neglect of the body (Colossians 2:23). To properly build upon the foundation of Christ, we must adhere to the doctrine received through Paul (Romans 6:17). Thus, living by grace through faith so that all we do results from manifesting who we are in Christ, not seeking our own righteousness (Philippians 3:9).
We are to seek a life lived from faith whereby we know and do the desirous will of God in all things, for in Christ we have all things pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3–4). Therefore, let us be diligent to add a lifestyle of moral excellence to our faith. The moral excellence we show by living out who we are in Christ, let us add to it knowledge. As we grow in our knowledge of the Lord, we then add self-control. With self-control, we gain patience to endure circumstances as we continue to seek God’s will. With patience, we add godliness and live out the life we now have. Along with godliness, let us add fondness for the brethren. From our fondness, let us love by seeking the best for fellow saints. Whoever does this will never be unfruitful or barren in their knowledge of Christ, and their works will be highly valued when tested (2 Peter 1:5–8).