What role do believers play in the building on Christ the foundation?

Les explains that Paul is not the basis of salvation; the foundation is Jesus Christ, and no other foundation can be laid. Once that foundation was laid for the church age—its doctrines and practice—the apostles and Old Testament prophets built upon it, all fitting together for God's eternal purposes. Les teaches that believers are part and parcel of building on that foundation, the hope of their salvation. In verse 12, Paul brings this down to the nitty-gritty of everyday Christian experience. Les prefers “anyone” rather than “any man,” so women also understand it applies to them. If anyone builds on this foundation, they may build gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or stubble. Les notes there are six materials: three are indestructible by fire or anything else, while wood, hay, and stubble can go up in a puff of smoke. All are potential materials for the Christian to use in daily experience.