Summary
Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians that he addressed them as children, still in a rudimentary faith, comparing his instruction to giving them "milk" rather than "meat." He points out that their divisions and pride show they are still carnal and not truly united under Christ. Paul then uses the metaphor of a building project, saying he planted and Apollos watered, but God gave the increase, underscoring that all believers are God's laborers. He explains that the only true foundation is Jesus Christ and that each believer’s work will be tested by fire on the day of judgment, with reward for endurance and loss for those whose work burns. Paul stresses that the church is God’s temple, and warns against defiling it or being deceived by worldly wisdom. He calls for humility, unity, and wholehearted devotion to Christ, noting that all things belong to believers and that they are Christ’s.