‘The
stone which the builders rejected, the same was made the head of the corner. This was from the Lord, it is marvelous in our eyes’
Mark 12:10-11
But those farmers said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ They took him, killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard. What therefore will the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the farmers, and will give the vineyard to others.
Mark 12 [10.] Haven’t you even read this Scripture:
‘The stone which the builders rejected,
the same was made the head of the corner.
This was from the Lord,
it is marvelous in our eyes’?”
Mark 12 [12.] They tried to seize him, but they feared the multitude; for they perceived that he spoke the parable against them. They left him, and went away.
Meaning:
In these verses, Jesus is speaking to the chief priests, scribes, and elders, referencing a prophecy from Psalm 118:22-23. The significance of this passage lies in its portrayal of Jesus as the rejected stone who becomes the cornerstone of God's kingdom.
The imagery of the stone rejected by the builders being elevated to the position of chief cornerstone carries profound symbolism. In the context of Jesus' ministry, it refers to His rejection by the religious leaders of His day, who failed to recognize Him as the Messiah. Despite their rejection, Jesus would ultimately be exalted by God as the cornerstone of salvation.
This passage underscores Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and His central role in God's redemptive plan. It highlights the divine wisdom and sovereignty at work in Jesus' rejection and exaltation, affirming His authority and divine status as the Son of God.
One cross-reference that amplifies the message of Mark 12:10-11 is found in Acts 4:11, where Peter boldly declares, "This is the stone which was regarded as worthless by you, the builders, which has become the head of the corner." This passage echoes the language of Psalm 118 and affirms Jesus' identity as the cornerstone of salvation.
Another cross-reference that enhances our understanding of Mark 12:10-11 is found in Ephesians 2:20, where Paul writes, "being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone." This passage emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ as the cornerstone of the church and the unifying force that holds together God's people.
As we reflect on Mark 12:10-11, we are reminded of the profound truth that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our faith. He is the foundation upon which the church is built, and the fulfillment of God's promises throughout history. Just as the rejected stone became the chief cornerstone, so Jesus, though rejected by men, has been exalted by God to the highest place of honor and authority.
In conclusion, Mark 12:10-11 highlights Jesus' identity as the cornerstone of God's kingdom and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. As we contemplate this passage, may we recognize Jesus Christ as the foundation of our faith and the source of our salvation, and may we respond with hearts of faith and gratitude to His marvelous work in our lives.
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PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible