Rewards in heaven

[RDKirk]

Are there any other interpretations of 1 Cor 3? Who is building on the foundation? What are wood, hay and stubble? What are silver, gold and precious stones? How can I become a more loving person so that I have the right motives when I do good works?

I said this to a boy not long ago: "Do right now what you know is the right thing to do. Figure out the rest later."

Go ahead and do the good works now that you know you ought to do. Let the Holy Spirit work out your willing heart in His time.

 

[Dave-W]

Are there any other interpretations of 1 Cor 3? Who is building on the foundation? What are wood, hay and stubble? What are silver, gold and precious stones? How can I become a more loving person so that I have the right motives when I do good works?

I heard a Fundamental Baptist pastor teach on this passage back when I was in high school (early 1970s)

The foundation was built on the life death and resurrection of Jesus. We need to found our life on obedience to Him and His Word.

Beyond that the wood hay and stubble were compared to our own works (cheap and plentiful, flammable) while the gold silver and precious stones (rare and costly, not flammable) were works done in the inspiration and power of the Holy Spirit. It was such a powerful image that it has stayed with me all of these years.

That FB pastor then said to imagine yourself in a huge sports stadium and the angels come and start building a house based on the works in your life. Precious stones of Christ's sacrifice make the base. Then they add stone floors and start building the home. 2x4 frame walls. then a beautiful curved oak stairway to the 2nd floor. Tapestry curtains and walnut furniture. Here and there were display cases with rare coins, jewels, and other artifacts. A finished luxurious mansion that anyone would be happy to live in.

Then the lead angel takes a torch from God's hand and sets the house on fire. The frame burns. So does that oak stairway, along with all the furniture. All that is left are those few jewels and coins that were either hidden away or were on display in wooden cases (which burned). And that is what your eternal reward is based on.