The theme of the rejection of the Son, Jesus Christ, is a significant motif throughout the New Testament, reflecting both prophetic fulfillment and the spiritual condition of humanity. This rejection is not only a historical event but also a theological concept that underscores the necessity of faith and the consequences of unbelief.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The rejection of the Messiah is foreshadowed in several Old Testament passages. Isaiah 53:3 prophesies, "He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief." This passage highlights the suffering servant motif, which is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Psalm 118:22 also speaks of the stone the builders rejected becoming the cornerstone, a metaphor for the Messiah's rejection and ultimate exaltation.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the rejection of Jesus by His own people is a recurring theme. John 1:11 states, "He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him." This verse encapsulates the initial response of the Jewish people to Jesus' ministry. Despite His teachings, miracles, and fulfillment of Messianic prophecies, many did not recognize Him as the Messiah.

Rejection by Religious Leaders

The Gospels frequently depict the religious leaders' opposition to Jesus. In Matthew 21:42, Jesus quotes 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'?" This citation underscores the leaders' failure to recognize Jesus' divine authority and role in God's redemptive plan.

Public Rejection

The public rejection of Jesus is poignantly illustrated in the events leading up to His crucifixion. In John 19:15, the crowd cries out, "Away with Him! Away with Him! Crucify Him!" This rejection is not only a legal and political act but also a spiritual repudiation of Jesus' identity and mission.

Theological Implications

The rejection of the Son has profound theological implications. It highlights the sinfulness of humanity and the necessity of divine grace for salvation. Romans 9:32-33 explains that Israel's failure to attain righteousness was due to their pursuit of it by works rather than faith, leading them to stumble over the "stumbling stone," which is Christ.

Rejection and Redemption

Despite the rejection, the New Testament also emphasizes the redemptive purpose of Christ's suffering. Acts 4:11-12 declares, "This Jesus is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.' Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." This passage affirms that through rejection, God's plan of salvation is accomplished, offering redemption to all who believe.

Continued Rejection and the Call to Faith

The rejection of Jesus is not limited to the historical context of the Gospels but continues in the present age. 1 Peter 2:7-8 warns, "Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,' and, 'A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.'" This ongoing rejection serves as a call to faith, urging individuals to recognize and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Conclusion

The rejection of the Son is a central theme that underscores the tension between divine revelation and human response. It serves as a reminder of the cost of unbelief and the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ.