How does Mark 12:8 connect with the prophecy in Psalm 118:22-23? Setting the Scene • Mark 12 records Jesus’ parable of the vineyard. The vineyard owner (God) sends servants (prophets), then finally his “beloved son” (Jesus). • Verse 8 captures the turning point: “So they took the son, killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard.” (Mark 12:8) • Immediately afterward, Jesus cites Psalm 118:22–23, linking the parable to a centuries-old prophecy. Parallel Lines: Mark 12:8 and Psalm 118:22-23 – “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. – This is from the LORD, and it is marvelous in our eyes.” • Core connection: – “Killed him and threw him out” (Mark 12:8) = “stone … rejected” (Psalm 118:22). – The son’s death = the stone’s rejection. – The exaltation that follows (cornerstone) is hinted when Jesus, raised from the dead, becomes the foundation of God’s new covenant people (Ephesians 2:19-22). Key Parallels to Notice • Characters – Tenants / builders = religious leaders of Israel (Mark 12:12). – Beloved son / rejected stone = Christ. • Actions – Murder of the son ➜ rejection of the stone. • Outcomes – Son’s apparent defeat ➜ God’s vindication (“cornerstone”). – Vineyard seized from murderous tenants ➜ kingdom given to others who bear fruit (Matthew 21:43). Why the Rejection Leads to Exaltation • God foreknew the rejection (Acts 2:23). • Through the cross, Jesus meets the demands of justice (Isaiah 53:5-6). • Resurrection makes Him “chief cornerstone” (Acts 4:11; 1 Peter 2:7). • The very act intended to destroy Him becomes the basis of salvation (Romans 5:8). Living Implications • Christ’s authority is non-negotiable; one either builds on Him or stumbles over Him (Luke 20:18). • Rejection by people can coincide with acceptance by God; faithfulness matters more than popularity. • God’s purposes cannot be thwarted—He turns rejection into the foundation of redemption. |
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