The term "cornerstone" holds significant theological and symbolic meaning within the Christian tradition, deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments. In ancient construction practices, the cornerstone was the principal stone, placed at the corner of a building, to guide the builders in their work. It was the first stone set, and all other stones were aligned to it, ensuring the structure's stability and integrity.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, the cornerstone is often used metaphorically to signify strength and foundation. Isaiah 28:16 states, "So this is what the Lord GOD says: 'See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken.'" This passage highlights the cornerstone as a symbol of security and trustworthiness, pointing to God's provision and the reliability of His promises.

The Psalms also reference the cornerstone in a messianic context. Psalm 118:22 declares, "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." This verse, while initially reflecting Israel's experience, prophetically points to the coming Messiah, who would be rejected by many yet become the foundation of God's redemptive plan.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament writers, inspired by the Holy Spirit, identify Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of the cornerstone imagery. In Matthew 21:42 , Jesus Himself cites Psalm 118:22, saying, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?" Here, Jesus affirms His role as the cornerstone, rejected by the religious leaders yet chosen by God as the foundation of the new covenant.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this in Ephesians 2:19-20 : "Therefore you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." Paul emphasizes that Jesus is the cornerstone of the Church, uniting believers and establishing them as part of God's spiritual temple.

Peter also echoes this theme in 1 Peter 2:6-7 , quoting Isaiah and the Psalms: "For it stands in Scripture: 'See, I lay in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone; and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.' 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.'" Peter underscores the dual response to Christ—the cornerstone is precious to believers but a stumbling block to those who reject Him.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the cornerstone represents Christ's preeminence and foundational role in the life of the believer and the Church. As the cornerstone, Jesus is the source of spiritual alignment and stability. Believers are called to build their lives upon Him, ensuring that their faith and actions are in line with His teachings and example.

Moreover, the cornerstone imagery underscores the unity of the Church. Just as a cornerstone unites two walls, Christ unites believers from diverse backgrounds into one spiritual house. This unity is not based on human effort but on the shared foundation of faith in Jesus Christ.

In summary, the cornerstone is a profound biblical metaphor that encapsulates the person and work of Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of His central role in God's redemptive plan and the believer's life, calling for faith, alignment, and unity in Him.Coner-Stone

A massive stone, usually distinct from the foundation, Jeremiah 51:26; and so placed at the corner of the building as to bind together the two walls meeting upon it. Such a stone is found at Baalbek, twenty-eight feet long, six and a half feet wide, and four feet thick.

Our Lord is compared in the New Testament to a corner stone in three different points of view. First, as this stone lies at the foundation, and serves to give support and strength to the building, so Christ, or the doctrine is the most important feature of the Christina religion-as a system of truths, and as a living power in the souls of men. Further, as the corner stone occupies an important and conspicuous place, Jesus is compared to it, 1 Peter 2:6, because God has given him, as the Mediator, a dignity and conspicuousness above all others. Lastly, since men often stumble against a projecting corner stone, Christ is so called, Matthew 21:42, because his gospel will be the cause of aggravated condemnation to those who reject it.

What does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.org

What is the five (5) fold ministry? | GotQuestions.org

What is the rock in Matthew 16:18? | GotQuestions.org

Cornerstone: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus