Building On The Living Stone

Church family, how are we doing today? Today, we are going to call upon the Holy Spirit to help us explore the beautiful message found in 1 Peter 2:1-10. In this section of Scripture, we'll see the importance of craving spiritual nourishment, of being built into a spiritual house, and the significance of Christ as our cornerstone.

[Title: Building on the Living Stone]

We talk about Jesus Christ being the cornerstone, but do we really know what a cornerstone is, or even its purpose? Well folks, I am going to clue you into its meaning, so that as we go through the message the finer points of it will make sense.

The cornerstone in construction is important for the following reasons:

• Structural significance: It provides a sturdy base, ensuring the longevity and safety of the building.

• Ornamental significance: It displays noteworthy details about the building's construction and connects us to architectural history.

• Geographical marker: The cornerstone marks the geographical location and orients the building in a specific direction.

Now what do these points have to do with us? First, the structural significance applies to us having a firm footing in this world, weathering through its storms because we rest upon the solid rock of Jesus. Second, the ornamental significance allows us to relate to the beauty of the work Jesus did in His earthly ministry, and what He continues to do from His throne in heaven…as Christians we are associated with the beauty. Third, the geographical marker applies to the direction we are heading, being a child of God and a follower Christ, our direction is heaven.

Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”

Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, “The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone,” and "A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed.

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

1 Peter 2:1-10

Before we get into our discussion, let's take a moment to pray:

Heavenly Father, thank You for this opportunity to come together as Your children to study Your Word. We ask that You open our hearts and minds to the message You have for us today. Help us to crave spiritual nourishment and be built into a spiritual house, with Christ as our cornerstone. Grant us the wisdom to understand and apply Your Word in our daily lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Craving Spiritual Nourishment

When we hunger for God's presence and God’s Word, we grow in our faith. It may be slow growth. It may have ups and downs. But this craving for God is key to becoming more like Christ. Just as newborn babies crave milk to grow and develop, we too must crave the pure spiritual milk of God's Word and His presence in our lives.

Our craving spiritual nourishment will result in regularly reading and meditating on God's Word. The Bible is a primary source of spiritual nourishment, as it contains the truth, wisdom, and guidance we need to grow in our faith. By spending time in God's Word, we can learn more about His character, His promises, and His will for our lives. This knowledge not only strengthens our faith but also equips us to face the challenges and trials that we may encounter in our daily lives.

Another key element is prayer. Prayer is our direct line of communication with God, and it is through prayer that we can express our gratitude, confess our sins, and seek His guidance and wisdom. By spending time in prayer, we develop a deeper relationship with God and experience His presence in our lives. This connection with our Heavenly Father is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being.

In addition to reading God's Word and praying, craving spiritual nourishment also involves seeking fellowship with other believers. As Christians, we are not meant to walk this journey alone, but rather, we are called to be part of a community of believers who can encourage, support, and challenge one another in our faith. By regularly attending church services, participating in small groups, and engaging in other forms of Christian fellowship, we can experience the love, support, and accountability that is necessary for our spiritual growth.