How does 1 Peter 2:4 describe Jesus' role as the "living stone"? Jesus, the Living Stone in 1 Peter 2:4 “As you come to Him, the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God’s sight.” What the Verse Tells Us about Jesus - Living stone – He is not just a memorial or idea; He is alive through His resurrection (Revelation 1:18). - Rejected by men – Humanity cast Him aside at the cross (Luke 23:18; John 1:11). - Chosen by God – The Father selected Him as the sure foundation foretold in Isaiah 28:16. - Precious – His worth surpasses all created things (Philippians 2:9-11). Old Testament Echoes Fulfilled - Psalm 118:22 – “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” - Isaiah 28:16 – “See, I lay a stone in Zion… a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation.” - These prophecies anticipated that the Messiah would be both refused by the nation and established by God as the essential support for His people. New Testament Confirmation - Acts 4:11-12 – Peter applies Psalm 118:22 to Christ, declaring Him the only name by which we are saved. - Ephesians 2:20-22 – The apostles and prophets are built on Him; believers become God’s dwelling. - Romans 9:33 – Paul repeats Isaiah 28:16, stressing that faith in Christ prevents shame. Why “Living” Matters - Resurrection guarantees He continually gives life to all who come (John 11:25-26). - A living stone implies ongoing, dynamic relationship, not a static religion. - Because He lives, believers are “living stones” too (1 Peter 2:5), sharing His vitality. Practical Implications for Us - Trust the foundation God counts “chosen and precious”; every other ground is sinking sand (Matthew 7:24-25). - Expect misunderstanding or rejection from the world, just as He was rejected (John 15:18-20). - Draw near daily—“As you come to Him…”—relationship with Christ supplies stability and worth. - Join the spiritual house He is building; life is fullest when aligned with the cornerstone (Colossians 2:6-7). |
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