by Roby Ellis
[Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:1-11]
Introduction
A. The message that has changed our lives is not of human origin; it is the mind of Christ revealed to us by God Himself (1 Corinthians 2:11-16).
B. Lest we put men on pedestals and regard others as unworthy of a place in God’s house, we need to be reminded of who we are.
I. On our own, we are nothing, have nothing, and can do nothing.
A. Although Paul was an inspired apostle, he was nothing without Christ (1 Corinthians 3:5; 2 Corinthians 12:11).
B. We only plant and water; God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:5-7; cf. Mark 4:26-29).
C. David said, “You are my Lord, my goodness is nothing apart from you” (Psalm 16:2).
II. Because we belong to God, we can do all things.
A. Is it possible for a slave to love his master (Exodus 21:1-16)?
B. Jesus is our benevolent Master (Romans 1:1; James. 1:1; Jude 1; 1 Corinthians 7:21-23; 1 Peter 2:16; Matthew 11:30).
C. We are His laborers (1 Corinthians 3:9; 2 Corinthians 1:23-24).
D. We are His field (1 Corinthians 3:9; John 15:1-8).
E. We are His building (1 Corinthians 3:9; Ephesians 2:19-22).
Conclusion
A. Even though all is ours, we really have nothing to boast about as mortal men (1 Corinthians 3:18-23).
B. Until we belong to Christ we are nothing, and all that we have to call our own is the sin that we have committed.