THE CORNERSTONE

Ephesians 2:11-22

Cornerstone: The first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure. (Wikipedia Encyclopedia)

Paul gives us a picture of a building under construction. Let’s consider the steps taken to accomplish God’s handiwork.

Consider the Material:

1. Crude and unsightly

   *unworthy

2. Unfinished

   *without God’s handiwork

3. Hopeless

   *without God

4. Self-righteous

   *I am better than you.

Consider the Preparation:

1. Out with the old and in with the new.

   *tearing down the walls that separate us

2. The Cross

   *common ground to build on

3. The Holy Spirit

   *orchestrates the building

4. The inner peace

   *makes the walls unnecessary

Consider the Foundation:

1. The Word of God

Consider the Cornerstone:

1. Jesus Christ / the perfect stone

2. Gives the building its shape and strength

Consider the Building:

1. My life

   *God dwells in the hearts of those who have trusted Jesus.

2. The Church

Final Thought:

“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation: the one who trusts will never be dismayed.”                           Isaiah 28:16   (NIV)