Psalms 118:22 – “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Psalm 118:22, the psalmist uses the image of a stone that was initially rejected by builders but later became the most important stone in the entire structure — the cornerstone. In ancient building practices, the cornerstone was crucial because it set the foundation and alignment for the entire building. By saying that the rejected stone has now become the cornerstone, the psalmist is highlighting how something or someone that was once dismissed or undervalued has become essential and central. This verse speaks to the surprising ways in which God works, often using what the world deems insignificant to accomplish His purposes.
Historical Context
Psalm 118 is one of the Hallel Psalms (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung during Jewish festivals like Passover to celebrate God’s deliverance. Historically, the imagery of the rejected stone could refer to Israel itself, which was often overlooked or oppressed by powerful nations but was chosen by God to play a central role in His plan. The psalm may also reflect King David’s experience, where he, though initially underestimated, was chosen by God to become Israel’s king. The people of Israel would have sung these words with a sense of triumph, knowing that God had used them, despite their small size and humble beginnings, to fulfill His great purposes.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights God’s ability to bring about redemption and transformation. What the world rejects, God can use in powerful ways. The stone that was rejected becoming the cornerstone shows that God’s choices often defy human expectations. This verse teaches believers that God’s approval matters more than human acceptance. It’s a reminder that God can take what appears to be weak, insignificant, or dismissed and turn it into something foundational and lasting. It reflects the idea that God’s ways are higher than ours, and His plans often turn worldly wisdom on its head.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 118:22 uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey a deep truth. The phrase “the stone the builders rejected” speaks to being cast aside, while “has become the cornerstone” signifies exaltation and purpose. This contrast highlights God’s power to transform what is seen as worthless into something essential. The literary technique of reversal — taking something rejected and making it central — emphasizes the surprising nature of God’s work. The metaphor of the cornerstone also carries a sense of permanence, stability, and importance, illustrating that God’s plans are enduring.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 28:16 – “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.”
- Matthew 21:42 – Jesus says, “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’?”
- Acts 4:11 – Peter declares, “Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’”
These references show how this verse from Psalms is used throughout the Bible to highlight God’s redemptive work, especially pointing to Jesus as the ultimate cornerstone.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 118:22 serves as a powerful reminder that God can use what the world rejects to accomplish His purposes. In a culture that often values power, status, and outward appearance, this verse encourages believers to see things through God’s eyes. It challenges us to look beyond human approval and to trust that God’s plans are greater. This verse also encourages those who feel overlooked or undervalued, assuring them that God can use them in significant ways for His kingdom. It is a call to embrace God’s unique purpose for each of us, even if others do not recognize our potential.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He sees value in what others discard. God’s love is not based on worldly standards of success or worthiness; instead, He looks at the heart. The fact that God chooses the rejected stone to be the cornerstone shows that He delights in lifting up the humble and using the unexpected. This reflects God’s gracious and loving nature — He is always ready to restore, redeem, and give new purpose to those who turn to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of Psalm 118:22. Throughout His ministry, Jesus was rejected by the religious leaders and many of His own people. Yet, through His death and resurrection, He became the cornerstone of God’s redemptive plan for the world. 1 Peter 2:4-7 speaks of Jesus as the “living stone” rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him. In Ephesians 2:20, Paul says that Jesus is the cornerstone on which the church is built. This verse points to Jesus as the foundation of our faith, showing that what the world rejects, God can elevate to a place of highest honor.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt rejected or undervalued? How can this verse encourage you?
- How does seeing Jesus as the cornerstone impact the way you view your faith?
- In what ways can you trust God to use your life, even if others don’t see your potential?
- How can you recognize and celebrate God’s work in using the “rejected stones” in your life or community?
- What does this verse teach you about the way God views people compared to how the world sees them?
This verse challenges us to trust in God’s perspective, knowing that He values what the world often overlooks and uses it to accomplish His great purposes.