Build on God our Solid Foundation

Having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the [chief] Cornerstone.

In whom the whole structure is joined together, and it continues [to increase] growing into a holy temple in the Lord [a sanctuary dedicated, set apart, and sacred to the presence of the Lord]. (Ephesians 2:20-21) For we are God’s fellow workers [His servants working together]; you are God’s cultivated field [His garden, His vineyard], God’s building. (1 Corinthians 3:9)No matter how much we create, how carefully we conserve, or how hard we work, it is futile and foolish to try to do so independently of God. Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. (Psalm 127:1) Building up others means to edify, encourage, and uplift them so they will be strengthened inwardly to persevere despite difficulty.

While purposing to build up others is essential, sincere and effective encouragement is founded on particular knowledge, truths, and beliefs.

Knowledge of God’s word. Believers are to build each other up by speaking appropriate truth from God’s word.

Do not let unwholesome [foul, profane, worthless, vulgar] words ever come out of your mouth, but only such speech as is good for building up others, according to the need and the occasion, so that it will be a blessing to those who hear [you speak]. (Ephesians 4:29) But you, beloved, build yourselves up on [the foundation of] your most holy faith [continually progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], pray in the Holy Spirit,

and keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously and looking forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ [which will bring you] to eternal life. (Jude 1:20-21) Therefore encourage and comfort one another and build up one another, just as you are doing. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)