What a Difference One Letter Can Make Week 2

Song Connection: 

Chorus – “Don’t build your life on the sinking sand, but on Jesus the rock who forever will stand.”

Key Scripture:

1 Corinthians 3:11 – "For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (ESV)

Introduction: 

Foundations matter. Whether it’s a house, a skyscraper, or a life—if the foundation is weak, the whole structure is in danger. 

Paul uses this image to remind us: the only sure foundation for life is Jesus Christ.

A friend of mine always says, “If the foundation is cracked, the house is jacked!”  Something as tiny as cracks in the foundation of our homes are indicators of much bigger problems.  The same is true of our faith.  If we don’t know “why” we believe as well as “what” we believe, satan can use that to crack our foundation, our ability to trust God and His Word.  We need a SOLID foundation.

1 Corinthians 3:11 Breakdown:

Key Words:

  •      “Foundation” (Greek: themelios)

The solid base on which everything else is built. In construction, if the foundation cracks, the whole building collapses. Spiritually, the foundation determines whether our lives stand or fall.

  •      “Other than that which is laid”

Paul is saying no alternative foundation exists. People may try to build on success, relationships, money, or morality, but none of those can carry the weight of eternity.

  •      “Jesus Christ”

He is not just a helper or teacher—He is the foundation itself. Everything else must be measured against Him. (Isaiah 28:16 calls Him the “precious cornerstone.”)

Why Jesus is the Only Foundation: 

  •      He is the only way to God

John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Other “foundations” (religion, philosophy, good works) can’t bridge the gap to God.

  •      He is unshakable

Matthew 7:24–25 – The wise man built on the rock; storms came, but it stood firm.

Life’s storms test our foundation. Only Christ remains unbroken.

  •      He gives eternal security

Acts 4:12 – “There is salvation in no one else.”

A foundation of Christ means eternal life is secure, no matter what happens in this world.

What Happens if We Build on the Wrong Foundation? 

  •      Building on money → financial loss destroys peace.

  •      Building on popularity → people’s opinions shift, leaving emptiness.

  •      Building on self → human strength runs out.

  •      These are all sinking sand (Matthew 7:26–27). They can’t withstand trials, death, or eternity.

Application: How Do We Build on Christ? 

  •      Believe in Him as Savior – You must start with Jesus as your foundation (John 3:16).  (Watch, “The Full Gospel!)

  •      Obey His Word – Every choice should rest on His truth, not feelings (James 1:22).

  •      Stay connected to Him daily – Through prayer, Scripture, and fellowship (John 15:5).

  •      Evaluate your life – Ask: What foundation am I building on?

Discussion Questions:

1. What “sand” foundations are most tempting for teens to build on today?

2. Have you ever felt like your world was shaken? How did your foundation hold up?

3. Why does Jesus call Himself the Rock?

Conclusion & Application: 

Every life is building something. The question is: what’s your foundation? Paul makes it clear—there is only one that lasts: Jesus Christ. Build on Him, and your life will stand firm now and forever.

Watch - “The Full Gospel"

Challenge: 

Read Matthew 7:24–27 every morning this week. Pray that God helps you build your decisions on His Word.

Take Away: 

If Jesus isn’t the foundation, the structure of your life will eventually collapse. But if He is, no storm can shake you.