The Stone the Builders Rejected
The metaphor of the rejected stone that becomes the cornerstone is a powerful illustration of transformation and purpose within God's plan. In biblical times, the cornerstone was the principal stone, often the largest, placed at the corner of the building. It was essential for the construction and stability of the structure. This imagery is used to represent Jesus, who, though rejected by many, became the foundation of the church. In Psalm 118:22, this idea is introduced and later cited by Jesus in Matthew 21:42 to explain His pivotal role in the kingdom of God. Peter also refers to Jesus as the cornerstone in Acts 4:11, and Paul elaborates on this in Ephesians 2:19-22, where believers are described as being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the chief cornerstone. Furthermore, in 1 Peter 2:4-6, believers are encouraged to come to Jesus, the living Stone, chosen by God despite being rejected by men.
Administration in the Christian Context
Administration plays a critical role in the life of the church, ensuring that the body of Christ functions effectively. It involves the wise and orderly management of resources and responsibilities. Paul recognizes this in 1 Corinthians 12:28, listing administration among the gifts essential for the church's wellbeing. The early church offers a practical example of this in Acts 6:1-7, where the apostles appoint deacons to manage the distribution to widows, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and ministry of the word. Similarly, forming relationships that align with Christian principles, as discussed in our exploration of faith and love, requires thoughtful administration of our interpersonal engagements. Paul's letters also frequently emphasize the importance of orderly conduct and the use of gifts, including administration, for the edification of the church, as seen in Romans 12:6-8 and 1 Corinthians 14:40. In his letter to Titus (Titus 1:5), Paul further stresses the need to put things in order, highlighting the value of administration in fulfilling the church's mission.
Coping with Sadness and Finding Hope
Sadness is a universal human experience, and the Bible offers profound insights for coping with it while nurturing hope. The Psalms, especially, are replete with cries of the heart that God hears and responds to. Psalm 34:18 reassures us that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The New Testament continues this theme of comfort, with Paul encouraging believers in Philippians 4:6-7 to present their requests to God, accompanied by the promise of His peace. In Romans 15:13, he speaks of the God of hope filling us with all joy and peace as we trust in Him. The prophet Jeremiah offers a timeless assurance in Jeremiah 29:11 that God has plans to give us hope and a future. Furthermore, in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul speaks of God as the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.
Conclusion
This exploration of biblical teachings has taken us through a journey of understanding the multifaceted aspects of faith, including the painful experience of rejection, the transformative power of Jesus as the cornerstone, the indispensable role of administration within the Christian community, and the interplay between sadness and hope. Each theme, supported by Scripture, provides us with a framework to understand and navigate the complexities of our faith journey. As we reflect on these passages and delve deeper into the depth of Biblical narratives, let us draw closer to the heart of God, seeking His wisdom and strength to endure the trials and tribulations we encounter. May we be encouraged by the eternal promise of His presence and the assurance of His unfailing love.
FAQ
Q: What does it mean for the stone the builders rejected to become the cornerstone?
A: This biblical metaphor refers to Jesus Christ, who was rejected by many during His time on earth but ultimately became the foundation of the Christian faith and the church. It signifies how something or someone can be undervalued by humans but chosen by God for a significant purpose.
Q: What is prophecy?
A: Prophecy in the Bible is the communication of messages from God, often concerning future events or spiritual truths, delivered by prophets who are inspired to speak on His behalf. The purpose is to guide, encourage, warn, and draw people closer to God.
Q: How does administration play a factor in our Christian lives?
A: Administration helps in the orderly management of church activities, ensuring that resources are used wisely and responsibilities are fulfilled effectively. It supports the church's mission and helps maintain focus on spiritual growth and service.
Q: What is the heart of the wise seeks understanding?
A: This phrase emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding as part of one's faith journey. It encourages believers to pursue knowledge and discernment, particularly through studying the Scriptures and seeking God's guidance.
