Topical Encyclopedia The term "cornerstone" holds significant theological and symbolic meaning within the Christian faith, particularly in reference to Jesus Christ. In biblical architecture, a cornerstone is the principal stone, often placed at the corner of a building, to guide the construction of the entire structure. It is foundational, ensuring the building's alignment and stability. In the spiritual context, Christ as the cornerstone signifies His foundational role in the Church and in the life of believers.Old Testament Foundations The concept of a cornerstone is rooted in the Old Testament, where it is often used metaphorically to denote strength and prominence. Isaiah 28:16 prophesies, "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 prophecy is understood by Christians to point to the coming Messiah, who would be the foundation of God's redemptive plan. Psalm 118:22 also speaks of the cornerstone: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." This verse is later quoted in the New Testament, emphasizing its messianic significance. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is explicitly identified as the cornerstone. In Matthew 21:42 , Jesus Himself refers to 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 indicates that He is the fulfillment of this prophecy, the cornerstone rejected by the religious leaders of His time but chosen by God. The Apostle Peter reiterates this in Acts 4:11 , declaring, "This Jesus is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.'" Peter emphasizes that salvation is found in no one else, underscoring the foundational role of Christ in the faith. Paul also speaks of Christ as the cornerstone 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." This passage highlights the unity and structure of the Church, built upon the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the essential cornerstone. Theological Significance Theologically, the cornerstone metaphor underscores the preeminence and sufficiency of Christ in the Christian faith. As the cornerstone, Jesus is the foundation upon which the Church is built, ensuring its unity and integrity. Believers are called to align their lives with Christ, just as a building aligns with its cornerstone. Furthermore, the rejection of the cornerstone by the builders serves as a warning against unbelief and disobedience. It illustrates the paradox of the Gospel: that which is rejected by the world is chosen and exalted by God. This theme is echoed in 1 Peter 2:6-7 : "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.'" In summary, the cornerstone of Christ is a profound biblical image that encapsulates His role as the foundation of the Church and the faith of believers. It calls Christians to build their lives upon Him, ensuring that their spiritual structure is aligned with His teachings and example. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 118:22The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 28:16 Matthew 21:42 Mark 12:10 Luke 20:17 Acts 4:11 1 Corinthians 3:11 Ephesians 2:20 1 Peter 2:6 Library Christ is Our Cornerstone Perfection to be Sought. Christ is Made the Sure Foundation Whether those to whom Christ's Birth was Made Known were Suitably ... Of the Things Pertaining to the Gospel of Christ which Hosea and ... Christ and his Apostles, Without any Fraud, Deception, or ... The Temple Cleansed Again The Doctrine of the Church i. Definition; Distinctions. The Church Triumphant Circumcision, Temple Service, and Naming of Jesus. Resources What does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Zion? What is Mount Zion? What is the biblical meaning of Zion? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that God is the Rock of salvation? | GotQuestions.org Cornerstone: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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