The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

CORNERSTONE

The writers of Scripture often used building imagery to make their point. This included references to the large stone set at the corner of the building’s foundation — integral to the rest of construction — which they called the cornerstone. This psalm, quoted often in the New Testament, makes clear that during one of humanity’s building projects, “the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (v. 22).

Here the psalmist celebrates the victory of a reigning king who had once been looked upon with disdain by the rival kingdoms. The builders of worldly empires once viewed him as a failure by kings who invaded his kingdom, yet, in time, it was shown that this king was in fact to be celebrated in his victory. God will also use his people, the nation of Israel, to establish his new world order on this earth — though they may appear weak, frail and defeated.

Peter calls believers in the New Testament living stones, being built together into a spiritual house. Then he quotes from the prophet Isaiah: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame” (1Pe 2:6). His point was this: just like the pagan nations who rejected David to their eventual demise, a tragic end awaits those who trip over the cornerstone God laid, Jesus Christ. In God’s sight, this stone is precious (1Pe 2:4). Those who trust Jesus by faith will be built into a victorious people — even though it may not always appear so in this life.

Jesus, thank you for being the cornerstone. Make me into a living stone that makes your church stronger. Amen.