The Chief Cornerstone

The Cornerstone

1 Peter 2:1-10

Intro.

In this passage, Peter tells us how we can have a live of strength and stability

It comes down to whom we build our life upon.

It refers to Jesus as a “living stone”

- I kind of doesn’t make sense.

- We don’t think of stones as “living”

- He also called us “living stones”

He’s talking about our life and our foundation.

Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone

I. Its Composition

A. A stone

1. Not a little rock like you might throw.

2. A larger rock that would be difficult to pick up.

a) Rocks on front of Fellowship Hall

b.) The rock in front of the church sign.

B. Hard

1. Not made of sandstone or something that would crumble.

2. Generally cut from a quarry where stones would be cut for building a structure

a) Like a house

b) The temple

C. Strong

1. Strong enough to hold a lot of weight

2. Strong enough not to crumble or break

3. Strong enough to withstand wind and storms.

4. Strong enough to last a long time.

II. Its Construction

A. Hewn out of a quarry

B. Cut to perfection

1. Perfectly flat on each side

2. Perfectly square on each corner.

III. Its Context

A. Old Testament

1. First mentions Job 38:4-6

““Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who

determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were

its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone,”(Job 38:4-6 ESV)

2. Psalms 118:21-23

“I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation. The stone that the

builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is the LORD’S doing; it is marvelous in our

eyes.” (Psalm 118:21-23 ESV)

3. The Prophecy Isaiah 28:16

“therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a

stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: ‘Whoever believes will not be in

haste.’” (Isaiah 28:16 ESV)

B. New Testament

1. Jesus

Mark 12:10 And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:

2. Peter Acts. 4:8-12

3. Paul

Eph. 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ

himself being the chief corner stone;

IV. Its consequence.

A. For believers

1. He is the guide upon which we build our lives.

a. The perfect guide

b. The perfect foundation

Isaiah called Him the “sure foundation” Isa. 28:16

2. We are a building of stones, built upon the perfect Cornerstone. 1 Pet. 2:5

3. Precious. 1 Pet. 2:7

4. Result Peter 2:9

a) A chosen generation

b) A royal priesthood

c) An Holy nation (Kingdom of God)

d) a Peculiar (special) people

e) Offering praise

f) Walking in light.

B. For Unbelievers.

1. He is rejected.

a) Imagine the perfect cornerstone is rejected.

b) Thrown out in to the wast pile

2. A stone of stumbling. 1 Pet. 8

a) Because they stumble at the Word of God

b) Disobedient - they refuse to believe

3. A rock of offense. (Useless, thrown away)

Conclusion

So, will you believe and live by the Chief Cornerstone.

OR will you reject Him?