LIVING STONES
1 Peter 2:1-10
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:5
How can human beings be referred to as stones? Stones are inanimate objects; immovable except by other forces and generally non-living. Yet the scripture says we are “lively stones”. In other words, we are living stones. As we consider the word stones, we shall begin to see its relevance to us and the expectations of God from us as believers. The words rock and stone, referring to the prime elements in ancient foundations, are used in the scriptures as metaphor signifying strength, steadiness and durability. Simon had his name suffixed Peter signifying the expectation of Jesus for him. His name Simon means reed while Peter (Petros) means rock. One is unstable while the other represents stability and strength.
The term living stones quoted above is a metaphor used to illustrate the secure and intimate relationship believers have with Jesus who is described as the Living Stone. The foundation of God’s building is His Son, Jesus Christ the living stone. The living stones, in turn are believers who come to Jesus and place their lives upon this foundation. As living stones, we have new life in Christ and as integral parts of the building we have security in Christ. Finally God our master builder places us where we belong in the building as we submit totally to Him.
As a living stone, we believers are expected to represent strength of character, steadiness of doctrine and enduring faith. As a house built of stones is strong, so should the coming together of believers produce a strong Body of Christ. A stone in isolation cannot amount to much but when joined with others; a large edifice can be built. This talks about the unity expected of believers. We must relate, work and cooperate with one another to build a spiritual house, the Body of Christ. We must shun all isolationist and divisive tendencies and unite to pursue the goals of the church.
In our text, we see Jesus referred to as the Living Stone who was rejected by men, but chosen by and precious to God. His rejection by the Jews was actually part of God’s plan to save us. And as we come to put our trust in the Living Stone (Jesus), we also are becoming like Living stones. And as living stones, we are built into a spiritual house where God dwells by His Spirit. This actually shows a number of things. First we are like Jesus. He is the ultimate living stone. When we join to him, we also become living stones. It also shows our significance. We are part of the building. We are strong together. We may also be rejected today by men, but wait, we are the chosen of the Lord and we shall reign eternally. Are you aware that stones do not die or fall sick? We hope you catch that revelation.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, help me to live a life of relevance, stability and strength for the kingdom.
