Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the concept of building is frequently used in a figurative sense to convey spiritual truths and principles. This metaphorical use of building imagery is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating the development of faith, the growth of the Church, and the establishment of God's kingdom.Spiritual Growth and Maturity The Apostle Paul often employs the metaphor of building to describe the process of spiritual growth and maturity in the life of a believer. In 1 Corinthians 3:9-11, Paul writes, "For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building. By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." Here, Paul emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the foundation upon which believers are to build their lives, highlighting the importance of sound doctrine and faithful living. The Church as a Spiritual House The imagery of building is also used to describe the Church as a spiritual house. In Ephesians 2:19-22, Paul explains, "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone. In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God in His Spirit." This passage illustrates the unity and growth of the Church, with Christ as the cornerstone, ensuring stability and alignment. Wisdom and Foolishness Jesus uses the metaphor of building to teach about wisdom and foolishness in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 7:24-27, He states, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its collapse!" This parable underscores the importance of obedience to Christ's teachings as the foundation for a stable and enduring life. Edification of the Body of Christ The concept of building is also used to describe the edification of the Body of Christ. In Ephesians 4:11-12, Paul writes, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ." The purpose of these roles is to strengthen and build up the Church, promoting unity and maturity among believers. Personal Responsibility in Building Believers are encouraged to take personal responsibility in building their spiritual lives. In Jude 1:20-21, it is written, "But you, beloved, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God as you await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you eternal life." This passage highlights the active role believers must play in nurturing their faith and maintaining their relationship with God. The figurative use of building in the Bible serves as a powerful illustration of the spiritual realities of growth, unity, and perseverance in the Christian faith. Through these metaphors, Scripture communicates the importance of a solid foundation in Christ, the collective growth of the Church, and the personal responsibility of each believer in their spiritual journey. Nave's Topical Index 2 Corinthians 5:1For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Nave's Topical Index Greek 3624. oikos -- a house, a dwelling ... a house, household Definition: (a) a house, the material building, (b) a ... affinity; a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3624.htm - 6k Library The Knowledge Both of Language and Things is Helpful for the ... The Figurative Language of Scripture. Meditation ii. The Supper-Room. Living Stones on the Living Foundation Stone Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... Li. Dining with a Pharisee, Jesus Denounces that Sect. Of the Church Of the Ark and the Deluge, and that we Cannot Agree with those who ... The Extent of Messiah's Spiritual Kingdom Acts IV Resources What is a Union church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a chapel? | GotQuestions.org Why is edification important in the life of a Christian? | GotQuestions.org Building: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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