Topical Encyclopedia The concept of a "foundation of stone" is a significant biblical metaphor that appears throughout Scripture, symbolizing strength, stability, and permanence. This imagery is used both literally and figuratively to convey the importance of a solid foundation in various aspects of life, faith, and the community of believers.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the use of stone as a foundation is often associated with the construction of altars, temples, and cities. For instance, in the building of the Temple in Jerusalem, Solomon used large, costly stones for the foundation, emphasizing the importance of a strong and enduring base for the house of God (1 Kings 5:17). The use of stone in this context underscores the sacredness and permanence of the Temple as the dwelling place of the Lord. Isaiah 28:16 provides a prophetic reference to a foundation stone: "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 messianic expectation of a cornerstone, a foundational element that is both reliable and enduring, pointing to the coming of Christ. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the imagery of the foundation of stone is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. He is identified as the cornerstone upon which the church is built. In Ephesians 2:20, Paul writes, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." This verse emphasizes the centrality of Christ in the faith and life of the church, serving as the essential and unifying foundation. Jesus Himself uses the metaphor of a foundation in His teachings. In Matthew 7:24-25, He says, "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock." Here, the rock represents the teachings of Christ, and the stability of a life built upon them. Spiritual Implications The foundation of stone is not only a metaphor for Christ but also a call to believers to build their lives on the solid ground of faith and obedience to God's Word. The apostle Peter echoes this in 1 Peter 2:4-6, where he describes believers as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house, with Christ as the cornerstone. This imagery conveys the idea of a community of faith that is both strong and enduring, rooted in the truth of the Gospel. Practical Application For Christians, the foundation of stone serves as a reminder of the importance of a firm and unwavering faith. It calls believers to examine the foundations of their lives, ensuring they are grounded in the teachings of Christ and the truth of Scripture. In a world of shifting values and uncertain circumstances, the foundation of stone offers assurance and hope, pointing to the eternal and unchanging nature of God's promises. In summary, the foundation of stone is a powerful biblical symbol that encapsulates the strength, stability, and permanence found in a life built upon the truth of God's Word and the person of Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 5:17And the king commanded, and they brought great stones, costly stones, and hewed stones, to lay the foundation of the house. Torrey's Topical Textbook Greek 2310b. themelios -- of or for a foundation ... Word Origin from tithemi Definition of or for a foundation NASB Word Usage foundation (11), foundation stone (1), foundation stones (2), foundations (2). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2310b.htm - 5k 2310. themelios -- of or for a foundation. Library The Foundation of God On Laying the Foundation Stone of a Place of Worship. Living Stones on the Living Foundation Stone On Laying the Foundation Stone of a Church. On Laying the Foundation Stone of a Place for Worship. On Laying the Foundation Stone of a Church. 'The Chief Corner-Stone' The Stone of Stumbling Isaiah's Discourse The Foreshadowing of the Cross Resources What is the Urantia book? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.org What is the origin of Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Foundation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Foundation: Decrees and Purposes of God Foundation: Doctrines of the Apostles Foundation: Figuratively Applied to Kingdoms Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Earth Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Heavens Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Mountains Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The Ocean Foundation: Figuratively Applied to The World Foundation: First Principles of the Gospel Foundation: Joined Together by Corner Stones Foundation: Security Afforded By Foundation: Security of Saints' Inheritance Foundation: The Lowest Part of a Building, and on Which It Rests Related Terms Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence) |
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