JESUS THE CORNERSTONE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Ephesians 2:20
Key Verse:
“And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.” – Ephesians 2:20
Supporting Texts: Psalm 118:22; Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 21:42; 1 Peter 2:6-7; 1 Corinthians 3:11
INTRODUCTION:
Every strong structure requires a solid foundation. In the same way, the Christian life depends entirely on the strength of its spiritual foundation. The Bible reveals Jesus Christ as the Chief Cornerstone: the essential support that holds the entire building of faith together.
A cornerstone is the first and most important stone laid during construction. It determines the strength, direction, and alignment of the whole building. Likewise, Jesus sets the standard for our faith, values, and relationship with God. Everything in the Church and the believer’s life must align with Him.
In a world filled with false doctrines, shaky philosophies, and uncertain foundations, believers must return to Christ, the unshakeable Rock. When Jesus is the Cornerstone of our lives, we are secure, unmovable, and victorious in all things.
1. JESUS IS THE SURE FOUNDATION OF OUR FAITH
Christ alone provides the stability upon which true faith rests. Without Him, everything collapses.
a) The Only Foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11). No human effort, religion, or philosophy can replace Christ. He alone is the foundation God has approved for salvation and righteousness.
b) The Rock that Never Fails (Isaiah 28:16). Jesus is a tried and precious Cornerstone. Those who trust in Him will never be put to shame.
c) The Foundation of Truth (John 14:6). In a world of confusion, Jesus is the truth that upholds faith and doctrine.
d) The Foundation of Eternal Security (John 10:28). Those who build on Christ are safe forever because He guarantees eternal life.
Biblical Example:
Peter and the early apostles built their faith and ministry entirely upon Christ, the Cornerstone, and the Church grew powerfully despite persecution (Acts 4:11-13).
2. JESUS HOLDS THE ENTIRE BODY OF CHRIST TOGETHER
As the Cornerstone, Jesus unites believers and gives direction to the whole Church.
a) The Unifying Bond (Ephesians 2:21). Christ connects believers of all nations, races, and backgrounds into one holy temple for God’s dwelling.
b) The Head of the Church (Colossians 1:18). Jesus is the source of order and authority in the Church, ensuring that all things function according to divine design.
c) The Centre of Fellowship (1 John 1:3). True fellowship is possible only through a shared connection with Christ.
d) The Standard of Unity (Philippians 2:2). Unity in the Church is sustained when all hearts and minds are aligned with Christ, the Cornerstone.
Biblical Example:
In Acts 2, the early Church was united in doctrine, prayer, and fellowship because Jesus was their foundation and focus.
3. JESUS IS THE REJECTED STONE THAT BECAME THE CORNERSTONE
Though many despised and rejected Him, Jesus became the foundation of God’s redemptive plan.
a) The Stone Rejected by Men (Psalm 118:22). The world rejected Christ through unbelief, but God exalted Him above all.
b) The Stone Chosen by God (1 Peter 2:6). God’s eternal plan placed Jesus as the foundation upon which salvation rests.
c) The Stone that Judges Unbelief (Matthew 21:44). Those who reject Christ will stumble and be broken, for He alone is the way to salvation.
d) The Stone that Lifts the Humble (Luke 1:52). Those who accept Him are raised and established on the solid ground of grace.
Biblical Example:
Joseph was rejected by his brothers, yet God made him the cornerstone for Israel’s survival during famine, a foreshadowing of Christ (Genesis 45:4-8).
4. BUILDING YOUR LIFE ON THE CORNERSTONE
Every believer must make a personal decision to align their life, purpose, and actions with Christ.
a) Build on the Word (Matthew 7:24-25). A life built on obedience to God’s Word stands firm against every storm.
b) Build by the Spirit (Zechariah 4:6). The Holy Spirit helps believers align with Christ’s will and sustain spiritual growth.
c) Build through Obedience (James 1:22). True faith is expressed through consistent obedience to God’s instructions.
d) Build with Perseverance (Hebrews 10:36). Patience and endurance ensure that our spiritual foundation remains firm amid trials.
Biblical Example:
Noah built the ark according to divine instruction, and though ridiculed, his obedience saved his family. Likewise, those who build on Christ will be preserved (Genesis 6:22).
CONCLUSION:
Jesus Christ is the Cornerston: the beginning, the alignment, and the completion of our faith. Without Him, there can be no lasting life, ministry, or success. Every area of our lives must be built upon Him to ensure stability and fruitfulness.
As you make Christ your foundation, He will hold your life together, establish your destiny, and make you a vessel of honour. When storms arise, you will not fall, for your life is anchored in the eternal Rock of Ages.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Cornerstone of my faith and salvation.
2. Father, help me to build every area of my life on Christ the solid Rock.
3. Lord, remove every faulty foundation in my life and replace it with Your truth.
4. Father, unite Your Church and let Jesus remain the centre of all we do.
5. Lord, help me to align my thoughts, words, and actions with Your will.
6. Father, strengthen my faith to stand firm during trials and storms.
7. Lord, arise and restore every broken area of my foundation.
8. Father, let my life reflect the stability and strength found in Christ.
9. Lord, grant me grace to build with obedience, integrity, and perseverance.
10. Father, let the Church of Christ continue to stand strong upon the true Cornerstone.
