Cornerstone
In Scripture, “cornerstone” is a building image used especially of Christ as the essential and honored foundation stone of God’s saving work and people.
At a Glance
In Scripture, “cornerstone” is a building image used especially of Christ as the essential and honored foundation stone of God’s saving work and people.
Description
In biblical usage, a cornerstone is a principal stone in a building, and the image is used theologically to describe Christ’s unique place in God’s redemptive work. Drawing especially on Old Testament building-stone texts and their New Testament fulfillment, Scripture presents Jesus as the stone chosen by God, rejected by many, yet established as the indispensable cornerstone of His people. The exact architectural nuance of the term is discussed by interpreters, but the main biblical point is clear: Christ is foundational, authoritative, and necessary for the true temple or household God is building. Believers are joined to Him and built upon Him, while rejection of Him brings judgment.