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Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 3 - Verse 15

3:15
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Meaning

This verse is a reminder that our actions as believers will be evaluated and tested by fire. The work that we do for God will either stand the test of fire, symbolizing that it is done with good intentions and in obedience to Him, or it will be burned up, indicating that it was done with impure motives or without following God's will. Although those whose work is burned will suffer loss in terms of rewards and blessings, they will ultimately be saved because their salvation is not based on their works but on their faith in Christ. The phrase "yet so as by fire" emphasizes the idea of purification through the cleansing fire of God's judgment. This verse serves as a call for believers to examine their motives and actions, ensuring that they are building their lives on a foundation of faithfulness and obedience to God.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse "If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire" can be found in the context of the apostle Paul's letter to the Corinthians. In this passage, Paul is addressing the issue of believers' works being tested by fire, which symbolizes the judgment seat of Christ. The verse highlights the importance of believers living a life that is pleasing to God and building upon the foundation of Christ with good works that will withstand the refining fire of judgment. The image of being saved "yet so as by fire" emphasizes that even though a believer may suffer loss of rewards due to their works being burned up, their salvation itself is secure. This serves as a reminder that while good works are important, ultimately, it is faith in Christ that saves us. Through this interpretation, believers are encouraged to strive for good works that will endure the testing fire of judgment, knowing that their salvation is secure in Christ.

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