Jesus, The Chief Cornerstone
‘And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.’ Matthew 16:18
Today’s Insight: Matthew 16:13-19
Some people have mistakenly interpreted this passage to say that Peter was the foundation on which Christ would build His Church. However, that would violate many scriptures that refer to Jesus as the ‘chief cornerstone.’
Ephesians 2:20 does mention the apostles as being part of the foundation stones of Christ’s church, but it doesn’t single Peter out above any of the other apostles, This same scripture once again mentions Jesus as the ‘chief cornerstone.’
There are two different Greek words used for ‘Peter’ and ‘rock’ respectively in verse 18. The word used for ‘Peter’ means ‘rock’ but signifies a piece of rock like a pebble. In contrast, the word translated as ‘rock’ signifies a massive rock which certainly refers to Jesus, the ‘chief cornerstone.’ Some have suggested that the foundation rock referred to was confession that Peter made saying that Jesus was ‘the Christ, the Son of the living God’ (Mt. 16:16). Although it is true that, to enter God’s kingdom, we do have to confess that Jesus is Lord (Rom. 10:9-10), in light of the Old Testament prophecies and New Testament references to Jesus being the ‘chief cornerstone,’ this passage of scripture must be referring directly to Jesus as the ‘rock’ upon which He will build His church.
One of the greatest differences between the New Testament believer and the Old Testament believer is the fact that New Testament saints are the temple of God. God Himself actually indwells us. God does not dwell in a building made by man’s hands. He now lives in the hearts of those who make Jesus their Lord (Rom. 10:9). The cornerstone of our lives in God must be an ever-increasing revelation of His Son. If we had a real understanding of the reality of Christ in us (Col. 1:27), it would drastically change our attitudes, emotions, and actions.
Source: awmi.net
Thank God for another enlightening devotional. I certainly cannot walk this journey without the help of Christ, it is through Him that i bear fruits – John 15:5.
He is indeed the Chief Cornerstone of my life.
This brings to mind the words of a song ‘ my hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness I dare not trust the sweetest frame; but wholly trust in Jesus’ name;
Christ alone; cornerstone. Weak made strong in the saviour’s love through the storm He is Lord; Lord of all’.
The reality of who Jesus is changes my whole life! He is the beginning and the ending of my faith! Hallelujah??
Jesus is the foundation upon which our faith is built. He is the author and finisher of our faith. Without Him we are nothing & can do nothing. To Him be all glory!
Thank you very much for this awesome insight. If we make Christ the cornerstone of our life well never be shaken. Thank you JESUS
It’s exciting to have this rest-assurance that Jesus lives inside of me not inside a church building! The fullness of the Godhead bodily dwells in my Lord Jesus; and He too, dwells inside of me – Glory!
Christ in me; the hope of glory!
Thank you Lord.
Christ indeed is the foundation of my faith! He has given me the opportunity to surrender my life to him so that he may dwell in my heart and transform me into the person God has created me to be.