Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "cornerstone" holds significant figurative meaning, symbolizing strength, foundation, and unity. The cornerstone is the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important for the alignment and stability of the entire structure. In a figurative sense, it represents the essential element upon which a larger entity is built.Old Testament Usage The concept of the cornerstone is introduced in the Old Testament, where it often symbolizes the foundation of God's work and His chosen people. In Isaiah 28:16 , the prophet declares, "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.'" Here, the cornerstone is a metaphor for the Messiah, a promise of stability and salvation for those who trust in God. Psalm 118:22 also references the cornerstone: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." This verse highlights the theme of reversal and divine vindication, where what is initially dismissed becomes central and foundational. New Testament Fulfillment The New Testament writers frequently apply the imagery of the cornerstone to Jesus Christ, affirming His role as the foundation of the Church and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. In Ephesians 2:19-20 , Paul writes, "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." Similarly, in 1 Peter 2:6-7 , Peter echoes Isaiah's prophecy: "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.'" Theological Significance The figurative use of "cornerstone" in the Bible underscores the centrality of Christ in God's redemptive plan. As the cornerstone, Jesus is the essential foundation upon which the faith of believers is built. This imagery conveys the idea that without Christ, the structure of faith would lack coherence and stability. Moreover, the cornerstone metaphor emphasizes the unity of believers. In Christ, diverse individuals are brought together to form a spiritual house, as described in 1 Peter 2:5 : "You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Conclusion The figurative use of "cornerstone" in Scripture serves as a powerful symbol of Christ's foundational role in the life of believers and the Church. It highlights themes of stability, unity, and the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus, the cornerstone rejected by men but chosen and precious in the sight of God. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 144:12That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace: Nave's Topical Index Library The Form of Concord. AD 1577. The First Epistle of St. Peter Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Resources What does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.orgWhat 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 |
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