Matthew 21:42 - James Nisbet's Church Pulpit Commentary

Bible Comments

CHRIST THE HEADSTONE

‘The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes.’

Matthew 21:42

Three things the corner-stone is to the builder’s work; and those three things Christ must be to you.

I. Exaltation.—First, the structure ranges up to the cornerstone. All else is below, that it may be high; and all ministers to it. So be it between you and Christ. Abase yourself, that Christ may be exalted; you nothing but a poor, wretched sinner, and He all your salvation and all your desire. You cannot go too low, and you cannot put Him too high.

II. Admiration.—Secondly, the whole fabric holds up the head of the corner to the view of men, that it may be admired. Take care that the aspect which your religion wears to every man is not yourself, but Christ. Let all see you in the shade, Him in the light. Least of all be ashamed of Him. But speak of Him in any company, or under any circumstances.

III. Union.—And thirdly, let Him, as the stone does the corner, bind everything. For He is union,—He is the One cementing of all that is true. In Christ, the very earth and heavens meet. Whatever meets in Christ, though it be repugnant to your other feelings, do not send it away from you. Let it be Christ which binds your heart and the heart that you now love best.

The Rev. James Vaughan.

Matthew 21:42

42 Jesus saith unto them,Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?