Chapter 115—Makes Our Foundation Sure
Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a
foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure
foundation.
Isaiah 28:16
.
In the Scriptures the figure of the erection of a temple is frequently used
to illustrate the building of the church.... Writing of the building of this
temple, Peter says, “To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed
indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, ye also, as lively stones, are
built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood” ... (
1 Peter 2:4, 5
)....
The apostles built upon a sure foundation, even the Rock of Ages. To this
foundation they brought the stones that they quarried from the world. Not
without hindrance did the builders labor. Their work was made exceedingly
difficult by the opposition of the enemies of Christ. They had to contend
against the bigotry, prejudice, and hatred of those who were building upon
a false foundation.... But in the face of imprisonment, torture, and death,
faithful men carried the work forward; and the structure grew, beautiful and
symmetrical....
Through the ages that have passed since the days of the apostles, the
building of God’s temple has never ceased. We may look back through the
centuries and see the living stones of which it is composed gleaming like jets
of light through the darkness of error and superstition. Throughout eternity
these precious jewels will shine with increasing luster....
But the structure is not yet complete. We who are living in this age have
a work to do, a part to act. We are to bring to the foundation material that
will stand the test of fire—gold, silver, and precious stones.... The Christian
who faithfully presents the word of life, leading men and women into the
way of holiness and peace, is bringing to the foundation material that will
endure, and in the kingdom of God he will be honored as a wise builder.
Divine power will unite with our efforts, and as we cling to God with
the hand of faith, Christ will impart to us His wisdom and His righteousness.
Thus, by His grace, we shall be enabled to build upon the sure foundation.
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