In this verse Paul uses figurative language again and turns his attention to the materials used in building. The return to figurative language is marked by Now, which Good News Bible omits. The word if introduces a real or fulfilled condition: Paul has already said that people have been building on the foundation he has laid (see, for example, verse 10). Barrett translates this first phrase as “Whatever anyone builds….” The any is quite general, as Good News Bible shows by the plural “Some.” Good News Bible‘s “others” is a good English translation, for it brings out the implied contrast between valuable and cheap building materials. Translators in some languages will have to add the word “people” after the words “Some” and “others”: “Some people”; “other people.”
Good News Bible‘s “in building” is a difficult construction. One may also say “when they build on.”
The foundation refers to verse 11, where the same word is mentioned. Translators in certain languages will need to make this reference clear by saying “this foundation.” For the translation of foundation see verse 10.
Many commentators are uncertain as to the exact meaning of the two Greek words that are translated precious stones and straw. Concerning the first word, most translations pick precious stones, and this fits in well with the reference to gold and silver, and with such descriptions as those found in Isa 54.11-12; Rev 21.18-21. In some cultures, however, it seems strange to use jewels in a building—though this was done in India in building the Taj Mahal. For this reason New English Bible translates this word as “fine stone,” that is, stone of finest quality, or “expensive stones,” which is the meaning of the second phrase in the Septuagint of 1 Kgs 7.9-11 (3 Kingdoms 7.46-48 in Greek); but Revised English Bible has “precious stones,” which is the most likely meaning. As for the second word, straw is the most likely meaning, although “stubble” is possible. Other scholars feel that “reeds” is intended, since reeds are often a symbol of weakness in the Old Testament. The translator must keep in mind that in this context the point is that wood, grass, and straw will burn, while gold, silver, and jewels or fine stones will not.
Quoted with permission from Ellingworth, Paul and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, 2nd edition. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1985/1994. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .