In 1 Corinthians 3:16–23, Paul continues with the theme of building up the local church, which he refers to as God’s temple. Though God causes the growth of the church, he uses the means of both leadership and congregation in its construction. Each church member has a responsibility to participate and to protect what God is building. We can summarise this passage under the title, “Danger: Construction Site,” which we will study under three headings:
1. Remember What You Are, and Don’t Destroy It (vv. 16–17)
2. Remember Where You Are, and Don’t Be Deceived by It (vv. 18–20)
3. Remember Whose You Are, and Don’t Diminish It (vv. 21–23)