Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 3:11
For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian church amid factional disputes, in the middle of a building metaphor where he has just claimed to have laid the foundation (3:10) and is about to describe the materials others will build with (3:12).
The words — θεμελίον (themelion) is the technical term for a foundation stone, not a generic base; ἄλλον (allon) "another" is what the verse flatly denies the possibility of.
The thread — Isaiah 28:16 names the Lord's tested stone as a sure foundation in Zion; Ephesians 2:20 identifies Christ Jesus as the cornerstone of the apostolic-prophetic structure; 2 Timothy 2:19 calls God's foundation firm and sealed.
Why it lands — The verse forecloses a specific question: whether a person may substitute, supplement, or rival Christ as the basis of their faith or ministry. It is a constraint, not an invitation.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Cross-references
- Ephesians 2:20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.
- Isaiah 28:16 So this is what the Lord GOD says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken.
- 2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.”
- Acts 4:11 This Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’
- 1 Peter 2:6 For it stands in Scripture: “See, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone; and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.”
- Matthew 16:18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.
- Galatians 1:7 which is not even a gospel. Evidently some people are troubling you and trying to distort the gospel of Christ.
- 2 Corinthians 11:2 I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. For I promised you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ.