◄ 1 Corinthians 3 ►
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God’s Fellow Workers (Hebrews 5:11–14) 1Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual, but as worldly—as infants in Christ. 2I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for solid food. In fact, you are still not ready, 3for you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man? 4For when one of you says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not mere men? 5What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? They are servants through whom you believed, as the Lord has assigned to each his role. 6I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. 7So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 8He who plants and he who waters are one in purpose,a and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. 9For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building. Christ Our Foundation (Isaiah 28:14–22; Ephesians 2:19–22; 1 Peter 2:1–8) 10By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. 11For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, 13his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man’s work. 14If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward. 15If it is burned up, he will suffer loss. He himself will be saved, but only as if through the flames. God’s Temple and God’s Wisdom (Romans 12:1–8; 1 Corinthians 6:18–20) 16Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells inb you? 17If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. 18Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise. 19For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness.”c 20And again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”d 21Therefore, stop boasting in men. All things are yours, 22whether Paul or Apollos or Cephase or the world or life or death or the present or the future. All of them belong to you, 23and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. Footnotes: 8 a Literally are one 16 b Or among 19 c Job 5:13 20 d Psalm 94:11 22 e That is, Peter Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Corinthians 3 Summary God's Fellow Workers Verses 1–4 – Spiritual Infancy vs. Maturity Paul calls the Corinthians “infants in Christ” because their jealousy and quarreling show they still think like the world. They need milk, not solid food. Verses 5–9 – God’s Field, God’s Building Paul and Apollos are only servants. One plants, the other waters, but God alone gives growth. The church is God’s cultivated field and rising building. Verses 10–15 – Building Materials Tested by Fire Paul laid the one foundation—Jesus Christ. Every believer builds on it with materials that vary in quality. A coming day of fire will reveal what lasts, bringing reward or loss, though the builder is still saved. Verses 16–17 – God’s Temple Is Holy The gathered believers are God’s temple; His Spirit dwells among them. Anyone who tears down that temple invites God’s judgment because the temple is sacred. Verses 18–23 – Boast in the Lord, Not in Men Worldly wisdom is empty before God. All things already belong to believers through Christ, so boasting in human teachers is pointless. In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul addresses the issue of disunity within the church at Corinth. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity, unity in Christ, and the roles of Church leaders. The chapter also explores the metaphor of the Church as God's building and the believer as God's temple, along with the implications of divine judgement and rewards. Historical Setting Corinth, a flourishing port city, overflowed with trade, wealth, and many religions. Temples to Aphrodite and Apollo towered over busy marketplaces where eloquent teachers drew crowds. Paul wrote from Ephesus around A.D. 55 after hearing of church rivalries (1 Corinthians 1:11). Chapter 3 answers that problem by showing the true leader of the church—God. Milk and Solid Food • 1 Corinthians 3:2 matches 1 Peter 2:2 and Hebrews 5:12-14. Milk pictures basic teaching; solid food is deeper obedience. • Length of time in Christ does not equal maturity. Quarreling exposes a heart still ruled by self. • Growth comes as the Spirit produces love, joy, peace (Galatians 5:22-23). Servant Leadership: Paul and Apollos • “They are servants…” (v. 5). In a first-century household, servants focused attention on the master, not themselves (Luke 17:10). • Modern ministry must do the same. God alone makes things grow (v. 7). • Rewards come from faithfulness, not fame (Matthew 25:21). Images of Field and Building FIELD: Isaiah 5:1-7 and Matthew 13:1-23 form the backdrop. BUILDING: Isaiah 28:16 predicts the cornerstone fulfilled in Christ (1 Peter 2:6). Paul laid that foundation; all later builders must align with it. Quality Materials and the Day of Fire • Gold, silver, precious stones endure; wood, hay, straw burn (vv. 12-13). • “The Day” points to Christ’s return (2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 14:10-12). • Reward language echoes Matthew 6:19-21. Salvation is secure (v. 15); the issue is reward. God’s Temple Today • Verse 16’s plural “you” means the local church together is God’s dwelling. • Old Testament parallels: Exodus 40:34; 1 Kings 8:10-11. • New Testament: Ephesians 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:5. • Divisive words or false teaching threaten God’s temple and face judgment (v. 17). Worldly Wisdom vs. God’s Wisdom • Paul quotes Job 5:13 and Psalm 94:11 (vv. 19-20). • Jeremiah 9:23-24 and James 3:13-18 share the same message—true wisdom begins with humility. “All Things Are Yours” • Union with Christ means believers inherit everything God will renew (Romans 8:32; Revelation 21:7). • Teachers, life, death, present, future—all serve the believer’s good (v. 22). • The chain of belonging: “you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God” (v. 23). Archaeological Notes from Corinth • The Peirene Spring plaza hosted public orators—fitting for a church struggling with flashy rhetoric. • The Bema judgment seat, still visible, reminds readers of a greater Judgment Day (v. 13). • The Temple of Apollo’s columns illustrate Paul’s talk of foundations and enduring materials. Connections to Other Scriptures • Division: Proverbs 6:16-19; John 13:34-35. • Reward: Daniel 12:3; Revelation 22:12. • Temple imagery: Leviticus 26:11-12; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Revelation 21:3. • Fire testing faith: Malachi 3:2-3; 1 Peter 1:7. • Boasting in the Lord: Psalm 34:2; Galatians 6:14. Practical Takeaways 1. Unity matters more than personality preferences. 2. Spiritual maturity shows in behavior, not head knowledge. 3. Every act of service builds on Christ’s foundation; choose lasting materials—truth, love, purity, sacrifice. 4. The church is sacred space; guard it carefully. 5. Chasing status is pointless when, in Christ, we already possess everything that counts. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 5:12-14 Discusses the need for spiritual maturity and discernment. Ephesians 4:1-6 Calls for unity and peace within the body of Christ. Matthew 7:24-27 Parable of the wise and foolish builders, emphasizing the importance of a strong foundation. 1 Peter 2:5 Believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house. Teaching Points Spiritual Immaturity Paul begins by addressing the Corinthians as infants in Christ (1 Corinthians 3:1), highlighting their need for spiritual growth. He contrasts spiritual milk with solid food, emphasizing the importance of maturing in faith. Worldly Behavior The presence of jealousy and strife (1 Corinthians 3:3) among the Corinthians is a sign of their worldly behavior. Paul calls them to rise above these divisions and live according to the Spirit. Unity in Christ Paul reminds the Corinthians that both he and Apollos are merely servants through whom they believed (1 Corinthians 3:5). The focus should be on God, who gives the growth, rather than on human leaders. Foundation in Christ Paul emphasizes that no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11). Our faith and works must be built upon this solid foundation. Judgment of Works The quality of each person's work will be tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13). This serves as a reminder to build with materials that will endure, such as faith, hope, and love. Temple of God Believers are collectively God’s temple and God’s Spirit dwells in them (1 Corinthians 3:16). This underscores the importance of holiness and unity within the church. Practical Applications Pursue Spiritual Growth Commit to regular Bible study and prayer to move from spiritual infancy to maturity. Promote Unity Actively work to resolve conflicts and avoid divisions within your church community. Focus on Christ Keep your eyes on Jesus as the foundation of your faith, rather than on human leaders or traditions. Evaluate Your Works Reflect on your actions and contributions to the church. Are they built on lasting values? Honor the Church Treat your fellow believers with respect and love, recognizing that together you form the temple of God. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of 1 Corinthians and is mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3:4-5. He is an apostle of Jesus Christ and a foundational figure in the early Christian church. In this chapter, Paul addresses divisions within the Corinthian church, emphasizing that he and Apollos are merely servants through whom the Corinthians came to believe. The Greek word used for "servant" is "διάκονος" (diakonos), which implies a role of service and ministry. 2. Apollos Apollos is mentioned alongside Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:4-6. He is another prominent teacher in the early church, known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Scriptures. Paul uses Apollos as an example to illustrate that both he and Apollos are merely instruments in God's work, with God being the one who causes growth. The emphasis is on God’s role rather than the human leaders. 3. God God is central to the message of 1 Corinthians 3, particularly in verses 6-7, where Paul states, "I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow." The Greek word for "God" is "θεός" (theos), highlighting the divine authority and power behind the growth of the church. Paul underscores that it is God who gives the increase, emphasizing His sovereignty and ultimate control over the church's development. 4. Jesus Christ Jesus Christ is referred to in 1 Corinthians 3:11 as the foundation upon which the church is built: "For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." The Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos) signifies the anointed one, the Messiah, who is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Paul stresses that all teachings and works must be built upon this foundation. Places 1. Foundation The concept of a "foundation" is central in 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, where Paul speaks of laying a foundation for the church, which is Jesus Christ. The Greek word used here is "θεμέλιος" (themelios), emphasizing the importance of a solid base for spiritual growth. 2. Temple of God In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, Paul refers to the believers collectively as the "temple of God." The Greek word "ναός" (naos) is used, indicating a sacred dwelling place, emphasizing the holiness and unity of the church as God's dwelling. 3. Field Paul uses the metaphor of a "field" in 1 Corinthians 3:9, where he describes the church as "God's field." The Greek term "γεώργιον" (georgion) is used, suggesting cultivation and growth, with God as the ultimate caretaker. 4. Building In the same verse, 1 Corinthians 3:9, Paul also refers to the church as "God's building." The Greek word "οἰκοδομή" (oikodome) is used, highlighting the construction and edification of the church community. Events 1. Paul Addresses Spiritual Immaturity (1 Corinthians 3:1-3) Paul begins by addressing the Corinthians as "infants in Christ," indicating their spiritual immaturity. He states, "I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready." The Greek word for "infants" (νήπιοι, nēpioi) emphasizes their lack of spiritual growth. 2. Jealousy and Quarreling Among Believers (1 Corinthians 3:3-4) Paul points out the presence of jealousy and quarreling among the Corinthians, which he attributes to their worldly behavior. He says, "For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly?" The Greek term for "worldly" (σαρκικοί, sarkikoi) suggests a focus on fleshly desires rather than spiritual maturity. 3. Paul and Apollos as Servants (1 Corinthians 3:5-7) Paul explains that both he and Apollos are merely servants through whom the Corinthians came to believe. He emphasizes that it is God who causes growth: "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow." The Greek verb for "made it grow" (αὔξειν, auxein) highlights God's active role in spiritual development. 4. Unity in God's Work (1 Corinthians 3:8-9) Paul stresses the unity of purpose between himself and Apollos, stating, "The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor." He refers to the Corinthians as "God’s field, God’s building," using agricultural and architectural metaphors to describe their role in God's work. 5. Building on the Foundation of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:10-11) Paul describes himself as a "wise master builder" who laid a foundation, which is Jesus Christ. He warns others to build carefully on this foundation, emphasizing that "no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." 6. Testing of Each Person's Work (1 Corinthians 3:12-15) Paul explains that each person's work will be tested by fire on the Day of Judgment. He states, "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." 7. The Church as God's Temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17) Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are "God’s temple" and that "God’s Spirit dwells in your midst." He warns that anyone who destroys God’s temple will be destroyed by God, emphasizing the sacredness of the church community. 8. Warning Against Worldly Wisdom (1 Corinthians 3:18-20) Paul cautions against self-deception and reliance on worldly wisdom, stating, "The wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight." He quotes Scripture to support his point, highlighting the futility of human wisdom compared to God's. 9. Belonging to Christ (1 Corinthians 3:21-23) Paul concludes by urging the Corinthians not to boast in human leaders, as "all things are yours," including Paul, Apollos, and Cephas. He emphasizes that they belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God, underscoring their identity and unity in Christ. Lessons from 1 Corinthians 3 1. Spiritual Maturity is a Journey In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul addresses the Corinthians as "infants in Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:1), reminding us that spiritual growth is a process. Just as a child grows into adulthood, our faith matures over time. Embrace the journey and seek to grow daily in your relationship with God, knowing that He is patient and nurturing. 2. Unity in Christ is Essential Paul emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, stating, "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly?" (1 Corinthians 3:3). Unity is a powerful testimony to the world of Christ's love. Let us strive to put aside differences and work together for the Kingdom, reflecting the harmony found in the Trinity. 3. God is the Source of Growth Paul reminds us that while we may plant and water, it is God who gives the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6). This truth liberates us from the pressure of results, allowing us to focus on being faithful in our efforts. Trust in God's timing and His ability to bring about the increase in His perfect way. 4. We are Co-Workers with God In verse 9, Paul declares, "For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building" (1 Corinthians 3:9). What an incredible privilege to partner with the Creator of the universe! This partnership calls us to be diligent and faithful, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. 5. Christ is the Only Foundation Paul makes it clear that "no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:11). Our lives must be built on the solid rock of Christ, ensuring that everything we do is rooted in His teachings and love. This foundation is unshakeable, providing stability in all circumstances. 6. Our Works Will Be Tested Paul warns that each person's work will be tested by fire to reveal its quality (1 Corinthians 3:13). This encourages us to evaluate our actions and motives, ensuring they align with God's will. Let us strive to build with materials that endure—faith, hope, and love—so that our efforts stand the test of time. 7. We are God’s Temple Paul reminds us that "you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst" (1 Corinthians 3:16). This profound truth calls us to live lives of holiness and reverence, recognizing the sacredness of our bodies and the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. 8. Wisdom of the World is Foolishness to God Paul challenges the Corinthians to become "fools" in the world's eyes to become truly wise (1 Corinthians 3:18). God's wisdom often contradicts worldly standards, calling us to trust in His higher ways. Embrace the countercultural wisdom of Scripture, knowing it leads to true understanding and life. 9. All Things Belong to You in Christ Paul declares, "All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours" (1 Corinthians 3:21-22). In Christ, we have access to all we need for life and godliness. This abundance frees us from envy and competition, allowing us to live generously and confidently. 10. We Belong to Christ Finally, Paul concludes with the reminder that "you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God" (1 Corinthians 3:23). Our identity is secure in Him, providing a foundation for our worth and purpose. Let this truth anchor your soul, knowing that you are cherished and held by the One who reigns over all. Topics 1. Spiritual Immaturity and Worldly Behavior Paul addresses the Corinthians' spiritual immaturity, comparing them to infants in Christ who are not ready for solid food. He highlights their worldly behavior, marked by jealousy and strife, as evidence of their immaturity. The Greek word "sarkikos" (σαρκικός) is used to describe their fleshly nature, indicating a life influenced by human desires rather than spiritual growth. 2. Servants and Co-workers in God's Field Paul explains that he and Apollos are merely servants through whom the Corinthians came to believe. He emphasizes that God is the one who causes growth, using the metaphor of planting and watering. The Greek term "diakonos" (διάκονος) is used for "servants," underscoring their role as humble workers in God's service. 3. The Foundation of Jesus Christ Paul stresses that Jesus Christ is the only foundation upon which anyone can build. He warns that each person's work will be tested by fire to reveal its quality. The Greek word "themelios" (θεμέλιος) refers to the foundation, highlighting the importance of Christ as the base of all spiritual work. 4. The Temple of God and the Indwelling Spirit Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in them. He warns against destroying God's temple, as it is holy. The Greek word "naos" (ναός) is used for "temple," indicating the sacredness of the community as the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. 5. The Folly of Human Wisdom Paul cautions against self-deception and the reliance on worldly wisdom, which is foolishness in God's sight. He quotes Scripture to support his point, emphasizing that true wisdom comes from God. The Greek word "sophia" (σοφία) is used for "wisdom," contrasting human understanding with divine insight. 6. Belonging to Christ Paul concludes by reminding the Corinthians that all things belong to them, whether leaders like Paul or Apollos, the world, life, death, the present, or the future. He asserts that they belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God, emphasizing the unity and hierarchy within the Christian faith. The Greek word "Christos" (Χριστός) is used for "Christ," underscoring the centrality of Jesus in their identity and purpose. Themes 1. Spiritual Immaturity and Carnality Paul addresses the Corinthians' spiritual immaturity, describing them as "infants in Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:1). The Greek word for "infants" is "νήπιοι" (nēpioi), indicating a lack of spiritual maturity. He criticizes their jealousy and strife, which are signs of living according to the flesh rather than the Spirit. 2. Unity in Christ The theme of unity is emphasized as Paul rebukes the Corinthians for their divisions, stating, "For when one says, 'I follow Paul,' and another, 'I follow Apollos,' are you not mere men?" (1 Corinthians 3:4). The Greek word "σάρκινοι" (sarkinoi) is used to describe their worldly behavior, highlighting the need for unity in Christ rather than allegiance to human leaders. 3. God's Role in Growth Paul emphasizes that God is the one who causes growth, saying, "I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow" (1 Corinthians 3:6). The Greek verb "αὔξειν" (auxein) underscores that spiritual growth is ultimately God's work, not human effort. 4. The Church as God's Building The metaphor of the church as God's building is introduced, with Paul stating, "You are God’s field, God’s building" (1 Corinthians 3:9). The Greek word "οἰκοδομή" (oikodomē) refers to a structure, emphasizing the church's collective identity as a spiritual edifice built by God. 5. The Foundation of Christ Paul stresses that "no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:11). The Greek term "θεμέλιος" (themelios) signifies the essential foundation, underscoring the centrality of Christ in the life and doctrine of the church. 6. The Testing of Works by Fire The theme of judgment and the testing of each person's work is presented with the imagery of fire: "The fire will test the quality of each man’s work" (1 Corinthians 3:13). The Greek word "δοκιμάσει" (dokimasei) means to test or prove, indicating that believers' works will be evaluated for their eternal value. 7. The Temple of God Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are "God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you" (1 Corinthians 3:16). The Greek word "ναός" (naos) refers to the inner sanctuary, highlighting the sacredness of the church as the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. 8. The Folly of Worldly Wisdom The contrast between worldly wisdom and God's wisdom is highlighted, as Paul writes, "The wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight" (1 Corinthians 3:19). The Greek word "μωρία" (mōria) for foolishness underscores the futility of human wisdom compared to divine truth. 9. Boasting in Human Leaders Paul warns against boasting in human leaders, stating, "So then, no more boasting about men!" (1 Corinthians 3:21). The Greek word "καυχᾶσθαι" (kauchasthai) means to boast or glory, emphasizing that glory should be given to God alone, not to human figures. Prayer Points Pray for personal and communal spiritual growth and maturity. Ask God to reveal and remove any sources of division within your church. Seek guidance to focus on Christ as the foundation of your life. Pray for wisdom to build works that will endure and glorify God. Request a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of God’s temple and to live in unity with other believers. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 1 Corinthians 3:2, how can believers be criticized for remaining on “milk” if spiritual maturity is often claimed yet rarely demonstrated in real-world behavior? 2. How does 1 Corinthians 3:9 align with actual historical and archaeological records, given its metaphor of believers as God’s building and field? 3. In 1 Corinthians 3:16, what scientific verification exists for the claim that believers are literally God’s temple and house the Spirit of God? 4. If 1 Corinthians 3:17 insists God will destroy those who destroy His temple, how does this square with passages elsewhere emphasizing mercy and forgiveness? 5. Doesn’t 1 Corinthians 3:19, by labeling worldly wisdom as foolishness, promote anti-intellectualism and conflict with biblical passages that encourage knowledge? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's critique of the Corinthian church challenge your current level of spiritual maturity? 2. What does this chapter teach us about unity and division within the church? 3. How do the roles of Paul and Apollos inform our understanding of spiritual leadership? 4. What does it mean for us to be co-workers in God's service? 5. How do you understand the metaphor of the church as God's building? 6. What implications does this building metaphor have for our personal spiritual lives and our role in the church? 7. How can you ensure that your work for God stands the test of fire? 8. How does the concept of divine judgement and rewards influence your service to God? 9. How does Paul's metaphor of believers as God's temple affect your self-understanding and your daily conduct? 10. How do you reconcile the call to see all things as ours in Christ with the everyday challenges and sufferings of life? 11. What does it mean to value God's wisdom over worldly wisdom? 12. How can we live out the truth that God's Spirit dwells within us in our day-to-day life? 13. How can we promote unity within our local church communities? 14. What materials (in terms of actions, attitudes, and motivations) are you using to build your life on the foundation of Christ? 15. How can we nurture spiritual maturity within ourselves and others? 16. How does recognizing ourselves as God's temple influence our decisions and behaviors? 17. What does it mean in a practical sense to be a servant through whom others come to believe? 18. How does the theme of accountability in this chapter speak to your personal experiences? 19. How can we balance the truth of being God's temple with the reality of human frailties and imperfections? 20. How can the teachings in this chapter shape our response to disunity and divisions in today's churches? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions