What does Mark 12:11 mean?
What is the meaning of Mark 12:11?

This is

- Jesus has just quoted Psalm 118:22–23 within the parable of the vineyard (Mark 12:1-10). By saying “This is,” He points to a real, historic event foretold in Scripture: the rejected Stone becoming the cornerstone (Isaiah 28:16; Acts 4:11).

- “This” identifies the very moment when God’s long-promised plan of salvation is unfolding in front of the hearers. The builders (Israel’s leaders) are rejecting Jesus, yet God is positioning Him as the foundation of redemption (Ephesians 2:20).


from the Lord

- The shift from human rejection to divine installation underscores God’s sovereignty. No human committee decided Jesus would be the cornerstone; the Father Himself ordained it (Psalm 118:23).

- Because it is “from the Lord,” the outcome is certain and irreversible, much like Joseph’s rise after betrayal (Genesis 50:20) and David’s kingship after years of hiding (2 Samuel 7:8-16).

- This phrase also rebukes any attempt to oppose God’s purposes. Those rejecting Jesus are unknowingly fulfilling the very prophecy God authored (John 19:24; Acts 2:23).


and it is marvelous

- “Marvelous” conveys astonishment mixed with delight. God’s ability to take what men despise and make it glorious evokes worship (Romans 11:33).

- Marvel at:

• The humility of Christ’s first coming (Philippians 2:6-8).

• The power of His resurrection (Romans 1:4).

• The formation of a new people made of Jew and Gentile upon that cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6-10).

- Every believer joins the psalmist’s wonder: salvation itself is a miracle that only God could design and accomplish (Titus 3:4-7).


in our eyes?

- The question challenges each listener: Do we share God’s perspective? The original builders missed the miracle because their “eyes” were clouded by pride (Mark 12:12; 2 Corinthians 4:4).

- For those granted spiritual sight, the rejected Stone becomes the object of endless admiration (Psalm 118:24; 2 Corinthians 3:16-18).

- The phrase “in our eyes” invites the gathered crowd—and us today—to respond with faith, aligning our view with heaven’s verdict (John 6:40; Hebrews 12:2).


summary

Mark 12:11 proclaims that Jesus’ rejection and exaltation originate in God’s sovereign plan, inspiring awe in every redeemed heart. What people discard, God enthrones. The verse asks whether our eyes will recognize and rejoice in the marvelous work the Lord has done through His chosen Cornerstone.

Why is the cornerstone significant in biblical architecture and theology?
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