Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

CORNERSTONE

An architectural term used in the NT as a metaphor for Christ (Matt. 21:42; Eph. 2:20; 1 Pet. 2:4-8). The NT usage of this term (Gk. akrogōniaíos; kephalḗ gōnías) comes from the OT (Heb. rōʾš pinnâ; Ps. 118:22; Isa. 8:14; 28:16-17). “Cornerstone” may refer to: (1) the stone in a new building laid first with great care and ceremony so as to ensure a straight and level foundation; (2) the interlocking cornerstones that join and strengthen two connecting walls; (3) the capstone at the top corner of a wall; or (4) the keystone of an arched door or gateway, the center and topmost stone that joins the two sides and supports the arch itself (the most important stone in which the name of the city, the ruler, and builder were often carved).

In the NT, Peter uses OT passages in a complex analogy, referring to individual believers as “stones” in a spiritual house where Christ is (1) the corner of the foundation; (2) the capstone or, more likely, keystone; and (3) the stumbling stone, upon which disobedient builders are judged for searching out a stone of their own choosing to complete the building (1 Pet. 2:4-8). Paul demonstrates that while the “apostles and prophets” are the foundation of the Church, it is Christ “in whom the whole building is fitted together” (Eph. 2:20).

Bibliography. R. J. McKelvey, “Christ the Cornerstone,” NTS 8 (1961/62): 352-59.

Dennis M. Swanson

Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

CORNERSTONE

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)