"It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel" ~Romans 15:20

“It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation.” ~Romans 15:20

This sounds like Paul is speaking solo, but we know from other passages that Paul is piloted by Jesus. He was chosen from all of humanity to be the master builder of the church, of Christ’s community of faith scattered across the globe. He wasn’t bringing in a “new religion” - he was showing that all the Old Testament rules, regulations, even the temple itselt, was fully manifested in Jesus Christ, the one and only foundation.

We have to end February Foundation month with a hymn written in the 7th century.

Christ is made the sure foundation,
Christ the head and cornerstone,
chosen of the Lord, and precious,
binding all the Church in one,
holy Zion's help for ever,
and her confidence alone.

To this temple, where we call thee,
come, O Lord of Hosts, today;
with thy wonted loving-kindess
hear thy servants as they pray;
and thy fullest benediction
shed within its walls alway.

Here vouchsafe to all thy servants
what they ask of thee to gain,
what they gain from thee for ever
with the blessèd to retain,
and hereafter in thy glory
evermore with thee to reign.

Laud and honor to the Father,
laud and honor to the Son,
laud and honor to the Spirit,
ever Three, and ever One,
consubstantial, co-eternal,
while unending ages run.