One Rock. Many Roles.

God the Father and Jesus Christ, His son, one in the same, are sometimes referred to by the same name. The name that sets the stage for this post today — Rock.

“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.” ~ Isaiah 26:4

God is often referred to as a ROCK. Rock of Ages. Rock of Salvation. Rock that is higher and everlasting. Immovable and Unshakeable.

Jesus is known as a STONE. A living stone. A Precious Cornerstone.

We’re going to hone in on that Precious CORNERSTONE, but before we discuss the significance of that stone in it’s form and function as a foundational stone, let’s take a look at two other important stones in architecture, the CAPSTONE and the KEYSTONE.

Both these stone have very significant roles as well. Why then is Jesus called the CORNERSTONE?

The CAPSTONE is top stone of structure or wall. It is usually a higher quality stone to help protect the rubble in between the inner and outer wall. It is commonly sloped or curved and overhangs the top of the wall to allow water to drip off.

The KEYSTONE is the central stone at the summit of an arch that locked the other stones together. It is wedge shaped and is necessary to support the arch. It is paramount and central and is KEY to the arch’s stability.

Again, while the CAPSTONE and the KEYSTONE were designed uniquely and specifically for the architectural role they played, and while they were an integral part of the structure, the CORNERSTONE, in regard to the structure as a whole, is by far the most important stone.

Thus the reason Jesus is called the Precious CORNERSTONE. There is no substitute substantial enough to support the weight put upon it.

The CORNERSTONE plays three roles in a structure, but more importantly, Christ performs these roles in the very foundation and structure of our lives…

Ephesians 2:20 says, "Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.”

Christ, the Cornerstone provides a firm foundation, structural significance, and distinctive direction for our lives.

Let’s take a look at each of these individually...