1 Corinthians 3:11
What does 1 Corinthians 3:11 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 3:11 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Corinthians 3:11 means
Here Paul sets the non-negotiable: “For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” The church’s stability, salvation, and identity rest on Christ alone—His person and work. No leader, philosophy, or achievement can replace Him. This verse guards against both adding to and substituting for Christ. It also centers hope: whatever storms come, a building on this foundation stands because Christ is unshakeable. All true ministry must align with Him, draw from Him, and point to Him. Where Christ is the foundation, there is life; where He is not, the structure, however impressive, is doomed to collapse.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949For there is no other base for the building but that which has been put down, which is Jesus Christ.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862for other foundation no one is able to lay except that which is laid, which is Jesus the Christ;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For other foundation no man can lay, but that which is laid: which is Christ Jesus.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890For other foundation can no man lay besides that which [is] laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Context
After calling builders to take heed, Paul names the foundation he laid: Jesus Christ. This anchors the chapter’s correction in Christology, not technique. Next, verse 12 will consider the kinds of materials people may use as they build on this foundation, and verse 13 will announce the coming test that reveals quality. The point is sequential: first, only one proper foundation; second, many possible building approaches; third, God’s day will expose what truly fits Christ.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Ephesians 2:20
being built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief corner stone;
- Acts 4:11
He is the stone which was set at nought of you the builders, which was made the head of the corner.
- Matthew 16:18
And I also say unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.
- Galatians 1:7
which is not another gospel: only there are some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
- Isaiah 28:16
therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner-stone of sure foundation: he that believeth shall not be in haste.
- 2 Corinthians 11:2
For I am jealous over you with a godly jealousy: for I espoused you to one husband, that I might present you as a pure virgin to Christ.
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