Topical Encyclopedia The term "foundation-stone" holds significant theological and symbolic meaning within the biblical narrative, representing both physical and spiritual concepts. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a foundation-stone was a critical element in construction, ensuring the stability and integrity of a building. Biblically, this concept is employed metaphorically to convey foundational truths and principles of faith.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the foundation-stone is often associated with the construction of the Temple, a central place of worship for the Israelites. 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 passage highlights the foundation-stone as a symbol of security and divine assurance, pointing to God's unshakeable promises to His people. The foundation-stone also appears in the context of the rebuilding of the Temple after the Babylonian exile. In Zechariah 4:9 , it is written, "The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent me to you." Here, the laying of the foundation-stone signifies the commencement of God's restorative work among His people. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the foundation-stone takes on a Christological dimension. Jesus Christ is identified as the ultimate foundation-stone upon which the Church is built. In Matthew 21:42 , Jesus refers to Himself as the cornerstone, quoting Psalm 118:22: "Jesus said to them, '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"?'" The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this concept 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." Here, the foundation-stone metaphor underscores the unity and stability of the Church, grounded in the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the central, unifying element. Theological Significance Theologically, the foundation-stone represents the essential truths of the Christian faith. It signifies the reliability and permanence of God's covenantal promises, fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The imagery of the foundation-stone serves as a reminder of the believer's secure position in Christ, who is both the foundation and the head of the Church. In 1 Peter 2:4-6 , believers are encouraged to come to Christ, "the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God's sight." This passage calls Christians to be "living stones" themselves, built into a spiritual house, emphasizing the communal and dynamic nature of the Church, rooted in the foundational work of Christ. Conclusion The foundation-stone, as depicted in Scripture, is a profound symbol of God's faithfulness and the centrality of Christ in the life of the believer and the Church. It calls for a response of faith and trust in the unchanging nature of God's promises, as well as a commitment to being part of the spiritual edifice that God is building through His people. 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 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' Separated unto the Holy Ghost Sacred Poems and Hymns I Saw no Temple There Subject Index Thesaurus Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence)Foundation-stone. Foundations, Foundation-stone. Founded . Multi-Version Concordance Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence). ... /f/foundation-stone.htm - 6k Founded (42 Occurrences) Foundations (49 Occurrences) Ever-living (20 Occurrences) Dealing (36 Occurrences) Corner-stone (10 Occurrences) Cornerstone (13 Occurrences) Rules (160 Occurrences) Hindered (12 Occurrences) Foundation (82 Occurrences) Resources Why is Jesus called the stumbling stone in Matthew 21:43-44? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Foundation-stone (1 Occurrence)1 Timothy 3:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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