How does 1 Peter 2:7 define the value of Christ to believers? preciousness defined by peter “To you who believe, then, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.’” (1 Peter 2:7) • Peter’s key word is “precious” (Greek timē)―honor, value, worth of highest grade. • The verse divides humanity into two groups: – Believers, for whom Christ holds immeasurable worth. – Unbelievers, who dismiss Him, yet cannot change His God-appointed role as cornerstone. layers of meaning behind “precious” • Intrinsic worth: Christ’s deity and sinless character make Him the priceless “living Stone” (1 Peter 2:4). • Redemptive worth: His blood “redeemed you…with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19). • Foundational worth: As cornerstone, He supports and aligns the entire spiritual house (Ephesians 2:20-22). • Exclusive worth: Only one foundation can be laid (1 Colossians 3:11); therefore His value is singular, not comparative. the honor bestowed on believers Because Christ is precious, believers receive: • Union with Him—“living stones” built on the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:5). • Honor now—access to God as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). • Honor later—future glory when the “precious” One is fully revealed (1 Peter 1:7). • Eternal security—nothing can diminish the value or efficacy of the Stone (John 10:28-29). contrasting verdict of unbelief • Rejection never alters reality; the rejected Stone is still the cornerstone (Psalm 118:22). • The very act of rejecting Him becomes their stumbling (1 Peter 2:8; Isaiah 8:14). • Thus, Christ’s worth is objective, not subject to human appraisal. echoes across the canon • Isaiah 28:16—“a precious cornerstone” appointed by God. • Matthew 13:44-46—the treasure and the pearl of great price illustrate believers joyfully surrendering all for Him. • Philippians 3:8—Paul “counts all things loss” for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. • Revelation 5:12—heaven declares Him “worthy…to receive power and riches.” living out Christ’s surpassing value • Treasure His Word, letting it shape priorities (Colossians 3:16). • Worship Him wholeheartedly; value dictates devotion (John 4:23-24). • Gladly sacrifice worldly gains that conflict with His supremacy (Mark 8:34-35). • Proclaim His worth to others—“declare the praises of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). |
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