3:13 3:13

1 Corinthians 3:14

3:15 3:15

Bible Versions

If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's {G1536} work {G2041} abide {G3306} which {G3739} he hath built {G2026} thereupon, he shall receive {G2983} a reward {G3408}.
If the work someone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward;
If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward.
If any man’s work shall abide which he built thereon, he shall receive a reward.

1 Corinthians 3:14 (KJV) is a pivotal verse within Paul's extended metaphor of believers as God's building and their service as construction work. It speaks to the positive outcome for those whose labor for Christ endures divine scrutiny.

Context

This verse follows Paul's foundational teaching in 1 Corinthians 3:9, where he describes believers as "God's husbandry, ye are God's building." Paul, as a "wise masterbuilder," laid the only true foundation, which is Jesus Christ himself. Upon this foundation, other believers build. The preceding verses introduce the idea of various materials used in this spiritual construction: gold, silver, precious stones (representing durable, valuable work) versus wood, hay, and stubble (representing temporary, less valuable work). Verse 13 declares that "the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is." Verse 14 then presents the positive consequence for work that withstands this testing.

Key Themes

  • Enduring Work: The phrase "if any man's work abide" emphasizes the lasting quality and eternal value of service performed for God with pure motives and according to His will. It's not just about doing things, but doing them in a way that stands the test of time and divine evaluation.
  • Divine Scrutiny and Judgment: While not a judgment for salvation (which is by grace through faith), this passage speaks to a future evaluation of believers' deeds and service. It's a judgment of works, not of persons for their eternal destiny.
  • Eternal Reward: The promise "he shall receive a reward" highlights God's faithfulness to acknowledge and recompense diligent service. This reward is a demonstration of divine approval and blessing, often understood as crowns or greater capacity for service in eternity, rather than a payment earned. This concept is echoed in other scriptures, such as Revelation 22:12.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "abide" is meno (μένω), which means to remain, endure, or continue. It conveys the idea of permanence and stability. The word for "reward" is misthos (μισθός), which refers to wages, payment for service, or recompense. It signifies a just return for labor, indicating that God values and will acknowledge faithful work.

Practical Application

1 Corinthians 3:14 serves as a powerful encouragement and challenge for all believers engaged in Christian service. It prompts us to consider:

  • Motive and Quality: Are we building with "gold, silver, precious stones"—motivated by love for Christ and truth, serving faithfully, and seeking God's glory—or with "wood, hay, stubble," perhaps driven by self-interest, human applause, or careless effort?
  • Eternal Perspective: This verse reminds us that our earthly actions, particularly our service to God, have eternal implications. It encourages us to prioritize what will last beyond this life, investing in the Kingdom of God rather than fleeting worldly pursuits.
  • Hope and Assurance: For those who faithfully serve, there is the comforting assurance of God's recognition and reward. This promise motivates perseverance even when results aren't immediately visible or appreciated by others. It underscores the importance of every act of obedience and love done in Christ's name.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 3:8

    Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.

  • Matthew 25:21

    His lord said unto him, Well done, [thou] good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

  • Matthew 25:23

    His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:5

    Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

  • Matthew 24:45

    Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?

  • Matthew 24:47

    Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.

  • Revelation 2:8

    And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;
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