The English language is interesting in how some words are identical whether a noun or a verb. For example we can ache (verb) because of an ache (noun), dream (verb) a dream (noun), dump (verb) garbage at a garbage dump (noun), we can mail (verb) mail (noun), and the list goes on.
Another interesting word is “building” as it is used as a verb for building, but what is built can then be called a building. When the building of a building has been completed, it is not called a “built” even though it has been. Think about that. However, to consider the idea of ourselves as the church, is it built or still building?
In his letter to the church at Corinth Paul stated. . .
“(9) For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building.” (1 Corinthians 3:9 ESV)
Regarding that building, Paul went on to note himself as a “skilled master builder” having laid a foundation on which building was continuing to take place. (1 Corinthians 3:10) However, it is a building and not a built! Though the foundation has been laid and established (i.e. 1 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 2:20), God’s building is continuing building. From the first century to the present and until the Lord comes again, “living stones” have, are, and will continue “being built up as a spiritual house”. (1 Peter 2:5) God’s building is continuing in its building.
Writing to the church at Ephesus, in noting them as members of God’s household (Ephesians 2:19), he went on to state how they were. . .
“(20) built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, (21) in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. (22) In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:20-22 ESV)
The language of Paul clearly reveals the building of God’s building is continuing in the becoming of all He has destined it to become. As souls continue being brought to Christ, as “living stones” joined with other “living stones”, they become a part of the structure resting on the Divine foundation already laid on which the building up together continues. Resting on the foundation God has established, may we be mindful of the manner in which we fulfill our role as “living stones” being built together as a holy structure to the glory of the Lord!
Have a great day CONTINUING IN THE BUILDING!
Carl
