Connect Ephesians 2:20 with other scriptures about Christ as the cornerstone. Ephesians 2:20 in Focus “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone.” Why the Cornerstone Matters • In ancient construction the cornerstone set the lines, angles, and strength of the entire structure. • Scripture uses that image to declare that everything in God’s household takes its shape and stability from Christ. Old Testament Anticipation • Psalm 118:22 – “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” • Isaiah 28:16 – “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken.” • Isaiah 8:14 – The promised stone would also become “a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” • Zechariah 10:4 – “From Judah will come the cornerstone…” These passages look forward to a Messiah who would simultaneously anchor God’s people and confront human unbelief. Jesus Claims the Prophecy • Matthew 21:42; Luke 20:17 – Jesus quotes Psalm 118 to religious leaders after the parable of the vineyard: He Himself is the rejected but exalted cornerstone. • By applying these verses to Himself, our Lord identifies His crucifixion and resurrection as the pivotal moment promised in the prophets. The Apostolic Witness • Acts 4:10-12 – Peter declares to the Sanhedrin that the risen Jesus is “the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone,” and that “Salvation exists in no one else.” • 1 Peter 2:4-8 – Believers are “living stones” being built on Christ; unbelievers stumble over Him. • Romans 9:33 – Paul blends Isaiah 8 and 28 to show that faith in Christ, not lineage or law-keeping, secures a place in God’s house. • 1 Corinthians 3:11 – “For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” What the Cornerstone Means for the Church • Foundation already laid – the “apostles and prophets” (New-Covenant apostles, Old-Covenant prophets) delivered Spirit-breathed revelation; we do not reinvent doctrine. • Alignment – every teaching, practice, and lifestyle is measured against Christ’s person and work. • Unity – Jews and Gentiles (Ephesians 2:14-19) become “one new man” only by resting on the same Stone. • Security – because the cornerstone is “tested” and “precious,” those built on Him “will never be put to shame.” • Ongoing construction – God continues adding “living stones,” shaping each believer to fit the growing temple. Living in Line with the Cornerstone • Test every viewpoint: Does it square with the lines Christ sets in Scripture? • Embrace both stability and offense: the Stone steadies believers yet exposes unbelief; expect both effects in gospel work. • Cultivate corporate identity: we are not scattered rocks but a cohesive structure, joined together only in Him. • Rest in assurance: the Cornerstone cannot crack; therefore, the house He supports will stand forever. |
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