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#UnfilteredChurch: Why Your Faith Needs a Firm Foundation in Christ

 • Daniel Stribling • Series: #UnfilteredChurch

In this compelling episode of the #UnFilteredChurch sermon series, Pastor Dan Stribling from First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana, dives into the theme of spiritual maturity based on 1 Corinthians 3:1–23. Delivered on June 30, 2025, this sermon challenges listeners to grow beyond spiritual infancy and embrace a faith rooted in Christ, not human leaders or worldly wisdom. Key Topics Discussed Immaturity Exposed (1 Corinthians 3:1–4): Pastor Dan highlights the Corinthian church’s spiritual immaturity, marked by jealousy and division over leaders like Paul and Apollos. He compares their behavior to infants unable to handle solid food, urging listeners to reflect on whether their faith is rooted in Christ or in personalities and preferences. Growth Comes from God (1 Corinthians 3:5–9): Using a farming metaphor, Dan explains that while human teachers plant and water, only God brings growth. He encourages cultivating a deep relationship with Christ to produce spiritual fruit. Building on the Right Foundation (1 Corinthians 3:10–15): Shifting to a construction metaphor, Dan emphasizes Jesus as the only lasting foundation. He warns that our life’s work will be tested, and only what’s built with faith, love, and service will endure. You Are God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 3:16–17): Dan underscores the sacredness of believers as God’s dwelling place, calling for attitudes and actions that reflect the Holy Spirit’s presence. Worldly Wisdom Won’t Grow You (1 Corinthians 3:18–23): Dan contrasts worldly wisdom with God’s wisdom, urging listeners to surrender to God’s truth rather than human ideologies. Useful Timestamps [05:30] Immaturity Exposed: Discussion of 1 Corinthians 3:1–4 and signs of spiritual infancy. [12:45] Growth Comes from God: Exploring the farming metaphor and God’s role in spiritual growth. [20:10] Building on the Right Foundation: The importance of Jesus as the foundation, with the Leaning Tower of Pisa illustration. [28:00] You Are God’s Temple: The call to live as God’s holy dwelling place. [34:15] Worldly Wisdom vs. Godly Wisdom: Contrasting worldly and divine wisdom, with practical applications. [40:00] Conclusion: A challenge to grow in one area of life and invite the Holy Spirit’s transformation. Additional Notes Scripture Cross-References: Pastor Dan weaves in scriptures like Hebrews 5:12–14, John 15:5, Matthew 7:24–27, and Galatians 5:22–23 to reinforce the message of growth and transformation. Illustrations: Memorable analogies, like picky eaters, gardening, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, make the sermon relatable and engaging. Practical Application: Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their faith’s foundation, cultivate their relationship with Christ, and reject worldly wisdom for God’s truth. Sermon Series Context: This is part 4 of the #UnFilteredChurch series, focusing on authentic faith and community at First Christian Church. Connect with Us Website: fccbrazil.org Social Media: Follow us on all platforms at @fccbrazil Contact: Reach out via email at info@fccbrazil.org for more information or to share your thoughts on this sermon. Listen to More: Find previous sermons and subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.