1 Peter 2:6 — For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”
Extended Explanation
Peter is quoting from the Old Testament here, specifically Isaiah 28:16. He wants to show that Jesus being the foundation of our faith wasn’t a new idea — it was God’s plan all along. The “stone in Zion” is Jesus, and Peter calls Him the cornerstone. In construction, a cornerstone is the most important stone in the foundation. It sets the direction and strength for the whole building.
This stone is not just strong — it’s chosen by God and precious to Him. Jesus isn’t just some random figure in history. He is handpicked by God for a special, central purpose. And then Peter adds a promise: everyone who puts their trust in Him will never be put to shame. That means they will not be disappointed, abandoned, or regret their decision. Trusting in Jesus is solid ground.
Historical Context
Peter’s readers were scattered believers — many of them outcasts in their culture because they followed Jesus. Some had lost relationships, status, or even safety for their faith. They may have been wondering, “Is it worth it?” Peter answers that question by pointing back to the promises of Scripture.
The verse Peter quotes from Isaiah was originally given to the people of Israel at a time when their leaders were making poor decisions and trusting in worldly alliances. God reminded them that He was laying a true foundation — one they could trust. Peter brings that truth into their present situation and shows them: that stone is Jesus.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that Jesus is the unshakable foundation for life and faith. God planned it, declared it through the prophets, and fulfilled it in Jesus. It also shows that trusting in Jesus is not blind or foolish. It’s the smartest, safest, and most meaningful decision a person can make.
It reminds us that salvation and security are found in a person — not in good works, not in religion, not in achievements — but in Jesus alone.
The promise that believers will “never be put to shame” is more than comfort. It’s a rock-solid assurance that their faith is not wasted. God honors those who trust in His Son.
Literary Analysis
Peter uses a quote from the Old Testament and weaves it into his argument like a master builder laying brick on top of a cornerstone. The structure of the verse starts with God’s action — “See, I lay a stone” — and moves to the result — “the one who trusts… will never be put to shame.”
The contrast is subtle but strong: the world may reject Jesus, but God sees Him as precious. And those who align themselves with Him, who build their lives on Him, will never be disgraced, no matter how the world treats them.
The image of a cornerstone carries strength, direction, and design. It’s the foundation that holds everything together.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 28:16 — “So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation…’”
- Psalm 118:22 — “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.”
- Romans 9:33 — “The one who believes in him will never be put to shame.”
- Ephesians 2:20 — “Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a reminder to stay grounded in Jesus. There are a lot of things people try to build their lives on — success, approval, comfort, even religion. But only Jesus is the foundation that will never crack.
When the world shifts, when hard times come, when doubts creep in — this verse calls Christians to remember where their security lies. If your trust is in Jesus, you are standing on a foundation that will never let you down.
It also encourages believers not to be shaken by rejection, criticism, or cultural pressure. Trusting in Jesus may not always look popular, but it will never lead to shame or regret.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love through His planning, His promise, and His provision. God didn’t leave people wandering in confusion or fear. He laid a foundation — one that anyone can stand on.
It’s an act of love that God not only gave a cornerstone but also gave a promise: anyone who trusts in Him will not be put to shame. That’s the heart of a loving Father who wants His children to feel secure and confident.
God didn’t just give us truth — He gave us a Person to trust in. That’s love in action.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the cornerstone — the foundation laid by God Himself. Everything in this verse points directly to Him. He is the one who was chosen, who is precious, and who holds everything together.
In Matthew 21:42, Jesus quotes Psalm 118 and says that He is the stone the builders rejected. In Acts 4:11, Peter boldly tells the Jewish leaders that Jesus is that stone.
And in John 14:1, Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” Trust in Him is the way to peace, purpose, and eternal life.
Peter knew this truth personally. He had trusted Jesus, failed Jesus, been restored by Jesus, and now was telling others with confidence: you can trust Him too — and you won’t be let down.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you that Jesus is the cornerstone of your life?
- Have you ever felt ashamed or uncertain about your faith? How does this verse help?
- In what areas are you tempted to trust something other than Jesus?
- How does this verse give you confidence when others reject or misunderstand your beliefs?
- How can you encourage someone else today with the promise that those who trust in Jesus will never be put to shame?