What is Your Foundation Built On?

Today is the winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. Steve Webb reminds us that this physical darkness serves as a powerful reminder of why the world needs Jesus, the Light of the World. As we dive into the scriptures for Epistle Sunday, we find the Apostle Paul addressing the church in Corinth with direct words regarding their spiritual maturity and the nature of servanthood.

In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul explains that he has to speak to the believers as infants in Christ because they are still acting according to worldly desires. He points to their jealousy and arguing over whether they follow Paul or Apollos as proof that they are not yet ready for the solid food of deeper spiritual teaching. Paul emphasizes that while different leaders may plant or water seeds of faith, it is only God who makes things grow. He cautions everyone to be careful how they build upon the foundation of Jesus Christ, noting that our work will eventually be tested by fire.

Moving into chapter 4, Paul defends his authority and describes the true nature of being an apostle. He identifies himself as a steward and a servant of Christ. Steve explains that the specific Greek word used, hyperedis, literally translates to under-rower. This refers to the men rowing in a large galley ship who acted without question under the direction of the one in charge. Paul challenges the arrogance of the Corinthians, reminding them that everything they have is a gift from God. He encourages them to be imitators of him as he follows Christ, showing that the kingdom of God consists of power rather than just words.

On This Date in Church History

On December 21, 1620, the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Harbor, seeking the freedom to worship according to their conscience despite great personal risk. This date also marks the passing of Robert Boyle in 1703. Boyle, the scientist behind Boyle’s Law, saw no conflict between science and faith. He funded Bible translations and believed that studying the natural world was a way of honoring its Creator. Finally, we remember the birth of Charles Finney in 1804. He was a leading figure of the Second Great Awakening whose preaching transformed American evangelicalism and linked Christian faith with moral responsibility and social reform.

If you find value in these daily readings and commentary, please consider supporting the show. Lifespring! Media is listener supported and free from censorship because it does not rely on advertisers. Most advertisers simply do not want to be identified with the uncompromised teaching of God’s Word.

Visit the Lifespring! Support Page to help keep the word of God going out to the world.