Rejecting the Stone and Embracing the Cornerstone

A Sermon on Psalm 118:22-23 and John 5:43

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before you today with open hearts and minds, seeking your wisdom and guidance. May your Spirit dwell among us, illuminating the truths in your Word. Help us to understand the deep connections within the scriptures and apply them to our lives. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Main Points

The Stone Rejected by Builders

Psalm 118:22-23 speaks of "the stone which the builders rejected," a metaphor rich in meaning and significance. This imagery connects directly to Jesus, who was rejected by many during His time on earth. Just as the stone was cast aside by builders only to become the cornerstone, Jesus was rejected by the religious leaders but became the foundation of our faith. It is vital to understand that rejection is not the end; it can be the beginning of something greater, as seen in the transformation from a rejected stone to a cornerstone.

Jesus Coming in the Father's Name

John 5:43 states, "I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me." This echoes the sentiments found in Psalm 118: "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." The rejection Jesus faced is a reflection of the rejection David experienced. David came in the name of the Lord, facing enemies and adversaries, much like Jesus confronted spiritual warfare. The profound connection between these scriptures highlights the divine mission and authority of Jesus.

David's Life as a Precursor to Jesus

The circumstances described in Psalm 118 closely align with David’s life. David faced rejection from various groups, yet he triumphed through his faith in God. This mirrors the journey of Jesus, who, despite being rejected, fulfilled His purpose. The Targum Psalms interpretation of David as the "stone" and the "son" of Jesse provides a deeper understanding of how David's experiences foreshadowed Jesus' mission and ministry.

Waging Spiritual Warfare

Jesus’ statement, “I have come in my Father’s name,” suggests that He came to wage a spiritual war, much like David confronted Goliath in the name of the Lord. Psalm 118:10-14 depicts David's victories over surrounding nations, emphasizing the power of faith and divine support. Jesus' mission involves conquering spiritual adversaries and establishing God's kingdom. This spiritual warfare requires us to be vigilant, strong in faith, and dependent on God's guidance.

Closing Prayer

Gracious Lord, we thank you for the insights and revelations from your Holy Word. As we reflect on the profound connections between the lives of David and Jesus, may we be inspired to embrace our roles in your divine plan. Strengthen us to overcome rejection and to wage spiritual warfare in your name. Guide us to become the living stones in your eternal kingdom. We pray this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.