“So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” and “A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.” (1 Peter 2:7–8, ESV)
Yesterday, we heard about Jesus the cornerstone. Peter said that whoever believes in Jesus will not be put to shame. You cannot go wrong when you align your life with him. He is the solid rock. He is your one foundation. He is the cornerstone upon which to build your house.
Peter also describes Jesus as a stumbling stone. When you don’t align your life to the rock, it will not go well. This stone will trip you up. He will work for you or against you.
The thing about a stumbling stone is that when you are walking along everything seems great. You don’t have a care in the world until you encounter the stone and you are tripped up unexpectedly. Many people today are living their life with little thought towards Jesus. They are going along, but one day they will unexpectedly encounter him as the righteous judge.
Jesus says that he will come at an unexpected time (see Luke 12:40). At that time every knee shall bow and tongue confess that Jesus Lord (see Philippians 2:10-11). You will bow down (voluntary) or you will fall down (involuntary).
There is no getting around Jesus. You can love him or hate him. You can praise his name or curse his name. But there is no ignoring him. He will be your cornerstone or your stumbling stone. How do you encounter him?
Reflection
- Is Jesus your Cornerstone or Stumbling Stone?
- What do you think it means that Jesus is a stumbling stone?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, too often I have not aligned my life with you. I have been tripped up in my sin. I have encountered you more as my Stumbling Stone than as my Cornerstone. Give me the wisdom to make better choices. Help me to align and build my life upon you as a solid foundation. Amen.
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