We Are The Church Series

I. The shift seems sudden, but the theme is the same. vss. 4-5

A. A shift from infants to stones vss. 2-3 verses vs. 4

The image changes but the theme is the same

B. Notice the language:

1. Living stones vs. 4 (Christ)

This is a paradox – stones have no life

Adding the word living to this is pointing to a person – it has three levels

a. Is alive now – being raised from the dead

b. Giver of life – water in desert Exodus 17

c. Reminder of God’s judgment

2. Living Stones vs. 5 (Us)

This is a paradox – stones have no life

Adding the word living to this is pointing to a person – it has three levels

a. Is alive now – being raised from the dead

b. Receiver of life – water in desert Exodus 17

c. Reminder of God’s judgment

3. Spiritual house vs. 5

a. You are being built – an action on going

b. Idea of a community of believers

c. Supersedes any material building

d. Supersedes any one location/language/style

4. Holy priesthood vs. 5

a. Means you (as a believer) are a minister

b. Three Old Testaments give you the characteristic of the priest – now liken to you

i. Exodus 28 God chooses them for service

ii. Leviticus 8 God cleansed them from sin before they embarked on their duties

iii. Exodus 40-43 God clothed them for service

5. Spiritual sacrifices vs. 5

a. Not to bring the sacrifices of animals

b. Bring the sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving

c. Notice again the verse – “As you come to him…” vs. 4

d. Notice again the verse – “ acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” vs. 5

C. What does God say about Jesus? Vs. 6

1. As the Scriptures says…

2. Cornerstone – capstone, foundation stone, important stone

II. The contrast vss. 7-8

A. To those who believe – he is precious

1. Precious – of great value

2. not put to shame – vs. 6

B. To those who do not believe

1. They reject – after they examine they discard

2. They stumble – stepping on a loose stone on a path

3. They fall – they fall

4. They disobey – refuse to obey – Psalm 40 Law is written on their heart

C. Which is what they were destined for?

1. There are hard words in the Bible

Double predestination

2. Our response should be where do I stand

III. So what?

A. Know you will not be put to shame because of your belief in Jesus!

B. You should be involved in the ministry of the church.

C. Worship is our sacrifice today.