Understanding Matthew 21:42

Verse: "Jesus said to them, 'Have you never read in the Scriptures: The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes?'" (Matthew 21:42, NIV)

Summary and Meaning

Matthew 21:42 signifies the rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders of His time, likened to a cornerstone that is vital for construction but initially dismissed. This rejection is framed within a greater divine plan, emphasizing that God is in control and works through human failures.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that this passage reveals the prophetic nature of Christ's ministry and His role as the cornerstone of faith. The stone's rejection by builders signifies how the Jewish leaders disregarded the significance of Jesus, ultimately leading to their own spiritual ruin.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights that the reference to the stone hints at Jesus’ establishment as the foundation of the Church. He points out that though He was rejected by the scribes and Pharisees, God chose Him as the central figure in the new covenant.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke draws attention to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, particularly from Psalm 118:22-23, noting how Jesus' quotation illustrates His messianic identity. Clarke emphasizes that this verse serves to bolster faith in Christ as the cornerstone that supports the entire structure of God's kingdom.

Thematic Connections

This verse resonates with various themes throughout the Bible, demonstrating the interwoven fabric of scriptural teachings:

• Rejection of the Righteous: Similar to the narrative of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:8), the idea of the chosen being rejected recurs in scripture.
• God’s Sovereignty: The concept of God selecting the weak and the despised to fulfill His purpose resonates with 1 Corinthians 1:27-29.
• Building on a Strong Foundation: Other verses, such as 1 Peter 2:4-6, reiterate the theme of Jesus as the cornerstone supporting the spiritual temple.
• Prophetic Fulfillment: The prophecy of Isaiah (Isaiah 28:16) corresponds with the New Testament lens of Jesus as the cornerstone, solidifying the continuity of God's plan.
• Faith and Works: Ephesians 2:19-22 depicts believers being built together on the foundation of apostles and prophets, with Christ as the chief cornerstone.

Cross-References

Matthew 21:42 connects with various important Bible verses:

• Psalm 118:22 - "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone."
• Isaiah 28:16 - "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation."
• 1 Peter 2:4-6 - "As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him..."
• Acts 4:11 - "Jesus is the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone."
• Ephesians 2:20 - "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone."
• Romans 9:32-33 - "They stumbled over the stumbling stone..."
• Colossians 1:17 - "He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."

Conclusions for Study

This verse encourages deep reflection on God’s overarching plan and the importance of recognizing Christ as the foundation of faith. By utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing and exploring these connections, believers can gain a fuller understanding of scripture.

Applications

Here are practical applications of this verse in personal faith:

• Identify Rejection: Reflect on areas in your life where you may overlook or dismiss God's guidance.
• Build on Christ: Firmly root your faith in Christ as the cornerstone of your beliefs and actions.
• Engage in Cross-Referencing: Use a cross-reference Bible study approach to uncover further connections between scripture themes.