Paul, the apostle, once wrote, "By the grace of God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder...but each one should be careful how he builds." (I Cor. 3:10) We all know builders whose work stands the test of time. Also, we probably know many more builders whose work does not stand up to rigorous inspections.
Example: Some people will go to great lengths to build something that will outlast their lives. Mr. Eiffel built the Eiffel tower in Paris, but forgot that only what is done for Christ will last. He died in sadness, misery and disillusionment. Paul the apostle, in contrast said, "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day." (2 Tim. 1:12)
Let us discover what are some of the secrets that Paul employed in his spiritual constructions.
1. Paul built upon the foundational teachings of Jesus Christ. The great apostle knew how important good foundations are for developing people, programs and organizations that can whether any adversity. "No other foundation can be laid except that which is Jesus Christ."
2. Paul anchored all of his ministries to the grace, love and truth found in our dear Savior. (2 Cor. 16:13) Paul wrote, My the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us now and forever more."
3. Paul recognized the importance of collaborating with people who were gifted experts in every dimension of the spiritual development process. He did not assume that certain jobs would get done. He said, "I planted and Apollos watered, but God gave the growth." (2 Cor. 3:5,6)
4. Paul took responsibility to see that people, churches and mission projects were brought to maturity through the utilization of synergistic combination of people’ s contributions. "I admonish and teach every man with all wisdom that we may present every man complete in Christ." (Col. 1:27,28)
5. Paul followed the blueprints found in the scriptures. He did not have to invent new designs for each person because Christ’s life provided the ideals.
6. Paul wrote,"Imitate me as I imitate Christ."
7. Paul recognized that without wisdom his labors might be in vain. Only the Lord is able to give supernatural wisdom to construct spiritual people, projects and groups.
8. Paul acknowledged that without the Lord’s blessings nothing could be accomplished for eternity. We should continually take inventory of the things God has done and is doing and give thanks.
9. Paul built with motivations from, through, with, to and for the Lord. One’s reasons for building greatly affect the quality and quantity of our spiritual construction.
10. Paul knew that his building would have eternal consequences for many. By looking at our ministries through the eyes of the Lord we are able to see what others cannot understand.
11. Spiritual builders gain an increasing insight into how their ministries will impact thousands throughout time.
12. Paul built with the living stones of believers. It may be tempting to concentrate your energies in politics, business or secular developmental projects, but only people and God’s word are eternal.
13. Paul built for maturity or completion. Do not think that your responsibility ends by making haphazard contributions. The Lord is interested in seeing a finished product in people and churches and organizations. Build things to completion - do not leave a job half finished. Paul wrote, "Speaking the truth in love, let us grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ." (Eph. 4:15)
14. Paul built others through an exemplary lifestyle. People will be built up by copying our Godly character, teaching and ministries. Let your light shine before men so they can benefit from your inspirational examples. Paul wrote, "Imitate me as I imitate Christ." (2 Cor. 7:1)
15. Paul practiced good stewardship in the use of all resources. Every second, every penny, and every talent
16. Whatever Paul possessed He utilized for the maximization of God’s kingdom and righteousness. The Lord wants the greatest return on His investment as possible.
17. Paul continually educated himself in better building techniques. Never stop learning and improving on the ways that you can build spiritual people, churches and organizations.
18. Paul did not abuse, misuse or under utilize his privileged status as a "master builder".
19. Paul did not become complacent settling for a ministry of advice giving. He continued to build throughout his lifetime.
20. Paul practiced building in an efficient, successful and disciplined manner. Do not think that you can do spiritual construction in a slovenly manner. You reap what you sow - qualitatively and quantitatively.
21. Paul continued to teach others the qualifications for being a master builder. No one can succeed in spiritual construction ministries without a purity, holiness, and reliance on the Lord.
22. Paul knew that He constantly needed the Lord’s intercessory help to build spiritual disciples.
23. Paul built by the power of the Spirit of God. He wrote, "When I came to you I did not come with superiority of speech or wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power. So that your faith would not rest of the wisdom of men, but on the power of God." (I Cor. 2:4-10)
Conclusion:Sometime back the Associated Press carried this dispatch: "Glasgow, Ky.--Leslie Puckett, after struggling to start his car, lifted the hood and discovered that someone had stolen the motor." Without the Holy Spirit’s power we are like that car without its engine. Associated Press.
Conclusion: What are you building? Are you following Paul’s example as a Master builder? How can you improve?
