Peter argues that even though Jesus was rejected and crucified, He was chosen by God to become the cornerstone of God’s spiritual house. Christians, then, are living stones that are built into this spiritual house. By using the terminology of the cornerstone and building blocks, Peter is presenting an image of the church. The church is founded upon Jesus but is made up of those who follow Him.

 

Becoming a Christian means that you become part of a Christian community, or local church. Just as a brick is to be built into a larger structure, so also Christians are not called to be followers of Jesus in isolation from others. 

 

Scriptures referenced include 1 Peter 2:1-8; Psalm 118:22; Matthew 21:42; Acts 4:11; Isaiah 28:16; Romans 9:33; Acts 2:42-47; 2 Corinthians 4:7; Ephesians 4:2-3; Hebrews 10:24-25; and 1 Peter 5:5.