Build Carefully | Michael Otadende | 29.03.26
Build Carefully | Sermon by Michael Otadende | 29.03.26
In this compelling and deeply convicting message, Michael Otadende walks us through 1 Corinthians 3:10–15, revealing powerful lessons on how to build a church that is Built to Last. As Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, a city plagued by divisions, immorality, and worldly philosophy, his mission was to pull them away from "cliques" and point them back to the only foundation that matters.
Michael challenges us to examine our "Building Regulations." Just as legal rules control how buildings are designed and constructed, Paul provides a spiritual framework for the church. We must move past the "milk" of infancy and start building with materials that can withstand the fire of God's refinement.
Through Paul’s instructions, we explore the Three Rs of building: Resources, Review, and Results.
Sermon Outline:
Main Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:10–15
Section 1: Paul’s Firm Foundation
Paul’s Future-Proof Formula: Understanding the "God, Me, We" dynamic. It starts with God’s grace, requires individual labor, and thrives through collective care.
No Other Foundation!: Contrasting the wisdom of the world with the power of the Gospel. We don't preach management techniques; we preach Christ crucified (1 Cor 1:23).
Section 2: Paul’s Building Regulations
Resources: Choosing quality over convenience. Are you building with gold, silver, and precious stones (The Gospel), or wood, hay, and straw (Human philosophy)?
Review: Every work will be tested. The fire isn't for destruction or purgatory; it is for refinement and revelation.
Results: The sobering reality of rewards. While our salvation is secure in Christ, our labor will either survive as a tribute or be lost to the flames.
Key Applications (How to Build Carefully):
Focus on ministry, not ministers: We are all just servants (1 Cor 3:5). Don't get lost in "titles" or "anointings."
Labour in love and unity: Reject the "fleshly" behavior of strife. Leadership is like the "anguish of childbirth" (Gal 4:19), it requires a soft heart and sacrificial love.
There’s unity in diversity: We are one team, but we each have a unique lane and a unique reward.
Don’t believe in your own "sauce": You might plant or water, but God is the one who brings the increase. As Michael says, "God is so gravy!"
This message calls us back to authentic discipleship and a gospel-centered life. Our job is to be available and faithful; God’s job is to save and grow the body.
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