1 Peter 2:4
As you come to Him, the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God's sight,
As you come to Him
This phrase invites believers into a continuous, active relationship with Christ. The Greek word for "come" (προσέρχομαι, proserchomai) implies drawing near with a sense of purpose and reverence. Historically, this reflects the Jewish tradition of approaching God in the temple, but now, through Christ, believers have direct access. This approach is not a one-time event but a continual journey of faith and communion with Jesus.

the living stone
The term "living stone" is a profound metaphor. In Greek, "living" (ζῶντα, zonta) emphasizes vitality and life, contrasting with inanimate stones. Christ as the "stone" (λίθος, lithos) draws from Old Testament imagery, particularly Isaiah 28:16, where God lays a cornerstone in Zion. This cornerstone is foundational, essential for the structure of the spiritual house God is building. The "living stone" signifies Christ's resurrection and eternal life, making Him the source of spiritual life for believers.

rejected by men
This phrase acknowledges the historical and ongoing rejection of Christ by humanity. The Greek word for "rejected" (ἀποδοκιμάζω, apodokimazo) means to disapprove or deem unworthy. This rejection was evident in Christ's crucifixion and continues as people deny His lordship. Yet, this rejection fulfills prophecy and highlights the contrast between human judgment and divine approval.

but chosen and precious in God’s sight
Here, the contrast is stark. Despite human rejection, Christ is "chosen" (ἐκλεκτός, eklektos) by God, indicating divine selection and purpose. The word "precious" (ἔντιμος, entimos) conveys honor and value, underscoring Christ's worth in God's eyes. This divine perspective assures believers of Christ's ultimate authority and the futility of human rejection. It also reassures Christians of their own value and purpose, as they are united with Christ, the chosen and precious cornerstone.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
Referred to as the "living stone," symbolizing His role as the foundation of the Church and His eternal, life-giving nature.

2. Peter
The apostle who authored this epistle, addressing early Christians facing persecution and encouraging them in their faith.

3. Early Christians
The recipients of Peter's letter, who were experiencing trials and needed reassurance of their identity and purpose in Christ.

4. God
The one who has chosen and deemed Jesus as precious, highlighting the divine approval and purpose in Christ's mission.

5. Men
Those who rejected Jesus, representing the world’s opposition to God’s chosen plan and the contrast between human and divine perspectives.
Teaching Points
The Living Stone
Jesus is not just a historical figure but a living presence, actively involved in the life of believers. This calls us to a dynamic relationship with Him.

Rejection and Acceptance
Just as Jesus was rejected by men but chosen by God, believers may face rejection in the world but are precious in God’s sight. This should encourage us to seek God’s approval above all.

Foundation of Faith
As the cornerstone, Jesus is the essential foundation of our faith. We must build our lives upon His teachings and example.

Identity in Christ
Understanding our identity as chosen and precious in God’s sight empowers us to live confidently and purposefully, even amidst trials.

Community of Believers
As living stones ourselves, we are called to be part of a spiritual house, emphasizing the importance of community and unity in the Church.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding Jesus as the "living stone" impact your personal relationship with Him?

2. In what ways can you find encouragement in being "chosen and precious in God’s sight" despite facing rejection or challenges in the world?

3. How can you ensure that Jesus remains the cornerstone of your life and decisions?

4. What are some practical ways you can contribute to building up the spiritual house, the Church, as a living stone?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, like Isaiah 28:16 and Psalm 118:22, deepen your understanding of Jesus' role as the cornerstone?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 28:16
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of a cornerstone laid by God, which Peter references to affirm Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy.

Psalm 118:22
The psalmist speaks of the stone the builders rejected becoming the cornerstone, a theme Peter echoes to illustrate Jesus' rejection and ultimate exaltation.

Matthew 21:42
Jesus Himself quotes the same Psalm, identifying Himself as the cornerstone, which ties into Peter’s message of Jesus being the living stone.

Ephesians 2:20
Paul also refers to Jesus as the cornerstone, emphasizing the unity and foundation of the Church built upon Him.

Acts 4:11
Peter, speaking to the Sanhedrin, declares Jesus as the stone rejected by the builders, reinforcing the message of His central role in salvation.
Coming to ChristCharles Haddon Spurgeon 1 Peter 2:4
Elect and PreciousJ.R. Thomson 1 Peter 2:4
Living Stones on the Living Foundation StoneAlexander Maclaren1 Peter 2:4
Newborn Babes and the Higher IsraelR. Finlayson 1 Peter 2:1-10
Christ a Living StoneR. S. MacArthur.1 Peter 2:4-5
Christ DisallowedJohn Rogers.1 Peter 2:4-5
Christians are PriestsR. M. McCheyne.1 Peter 2:4-5
Cohesion in God's Spiritual HouseG. G. Findlay.1 Peter 2:4-5
Coming -- Always ComingC. H. Spurgeon.1 Peter 2:4-5
Living StonesA. Maclaren 1 Peter 2:4, 5
Living StonesW. Skinner.1 Peter 2:4-5
Living StonesJ. Ruskin.1 Peter 2:4-5
Living StonesHours of Exercise on the Alps.1 Peter 2:4-5
Mind the Temple is not Built Without YouA. Maclaren.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Christian PriesthoodAbp. Leighton.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Christian's SacrificesJohn Rogers.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Church the Priesthood of GodD. Thomas, D. D.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Church the Temple of GodD. Thomas, D. D.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Doctrine of SacrificeA. Mursell.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Living StoneJ. C. Jones D. D.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Priesthood of the LaityCanon Body.1 Peter 2:4-5
The True Priesthood, Temple and SacrificeC. H. Spurgeon.1 Peter 2:4-5
The Spiritual Temple, Priesthood, and SacrificesJ.R. Thomson 1 Peter 2:4-6
The Soul-Temple, and Soul-ServiceU.R. Thomas 1 Peter 2:4-8
Christian Life Crowned with Wonderful HonorC. New 1 Peter 2:4-10
People
Peter
Places
Asia, Bithynia, Cappadocia, Galatia, Pontus, Zion
Topics
Cast, Choice, Chosen, Disallowed, Disapproved, Elect, Esteem, Ever-living, God's, Held, Honour, Honoured, Indeed, Precious, Rejected, Sight, Special, Stone, Value, Worthless
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Peter 2:4

     1135   God, suffering of

1 Peter 2:4-5

     2030   Christ, holiness
     5240   building
     5317   foundation
     5340   house
     7382   house of God
     7923   fellowship, in gospel
     7950   mission, of Christ
     8413   edification

1 Peter 2:4-6

     2212   Christ, head of church
     6641   election, responsibilities

1 Peter 2:4-7

     5207   architecture
     5403   masons
     5974   value

1 Peter 2:4-8

     1240   God, the Rock
     4366   stones
     5269   cornerstone
     6512   salvation, necessity and basis

Library
Under the Shepherd's Care.
A NEW YEAR'S ADDRESS. "For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."--1 Peter ii. 25. "Ye were as sheep going astray." This is evidently addressed to believers. We were like sheep, blindly, willfully following an unwise leader. Not only were we following ourselves, but we in our turn have led others astray. This is true of all of us: "All we like sheep have gone astray;" all equally foolish, "we have turned every one to his own way." Our first
J. Hudson Taylor—A Ribband of Blue

The Jewish Rebellions
1 PETER ii. 11. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. I think that you will understand the text, and indeed the whole of St. Peter's first Epistle, better, if I explain to you somewhat the state of the Eastern countries of the world in St. Peter's time. The Romans, a short time before St. Peter was born, had conquered all the nations round them, and brought them under law and regular government. St. Peter now tells those
Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons

Christ the Exemplar
'For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.'--1 Peter ii. 21. These words are a very striking illustration of the way in which the Gospel brings Christ's principles to bear upon morals and duty. The Apostle is doing nothing more than exhorting a handful of slaves to the full and complete and patient acceptance of their hard lot, and in order to teach a very homely and lowly lesson to the squalid minds of a few captives,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Transcriber's Note:
List of corrections and amendments made: Ephesians: Page 36: added closing quote after "the event of our inheritance" (line 3) 102: "gentle words ot" to "to" 154: "it" added in "what it is to hear" 263: [Preached on Whitsunday] was a footnote. 286: (R.V.) to (R.V.). for consistency with other references. 286: "please to understand" to "do" 287: "we shoud be entitled" to "should" 391: added -- and changed Ephes. to Eph. for consistency with other headings 391: added colon after "Mark its
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Spiritual Sacrifices
'... Spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.'--1 Peter ii. 5. In this verse Peter piles up his metaphors in a fine profusion, perfectly careless of oratorical elegance or propriety. He gathers together three symbols, drawn from ancient sacrificial worship, and applies them all to Christian people. In the one breath they are 'temples,' in the next 'priests,' in the third 'sacrifices.' All the three are needed to body out the whole truth of the relationship of the perfect universal
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Mirrors of God
... That ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness ...'--1 Peter ii. 9. The Revised Version, instead of 'praises,' reads excellencies--and even that is but a feeble translation of the remarkable word here employed. For it is that usually rendered 'virtues'; and by the word, of course, when applied to God, we mean the radiant excellencies and glories of His character, of which our earthly qualities, designated by the same name, are but as shadows. It is, indeed,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Living Stones on the Living Foundation Stone
'To Whom coming, as unto a living stone ... ye also, as living stones, are built up.'--1 Peter ii. 4, 5. I wonder whether Peter, when he wrote these words, was thinking about what Jesus Christ said to him long ago, up there at Caesarea Philippi. He had heard from Christ's lips, 'Thou art Peter, and on this rock I will build My Church.' He had understood very little of what it meant then. He is an old man now, years of experience and sorrow and work have taught him the meaning of the words, and he
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Christ Precious to Believers
This remark is uttered by way of introduction, it may seem egotistical, but that I cannot help. I must give glory to God in the midst of the great congregation, and pay my vows to the Lord now in the midst of all his saints, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. My text states a positive fact, namely, that Christ is precious to believers. This shall be the first part of our discourse; then in the second we will try to answer the question, why is Jesus Christ so precious to his believing people? And
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 5: 1859

Coming to Christ
"To whom coming."--1 Peter 2:4. IN THESE three words you have, first of all, a blessed person mentioned, under the pronoun "whom"--"To whom coming." In the way of salvation we come alone to Jesus Christ. All comings to baptism, comings to confirmation, comings to sacrament are all null and void unless we come to Jesus Christ. That which saves the soul is not coming to a human priest, nor even attending the assemblies of God's saints; it is coming to Jesus Christ, the great exalted Saviour, once slain,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 62: 1916

The Lively Stones. Rev. W. Morley Punshon.
"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 ii. 5. There is a manifest reference in the fourth verse to the personage alluded to in Psalm cxviii. 22, 23: "The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes." And this passage is applied by Christ to himself in Matthew xxi. 42: "Jesus saith unto them, Did
Knowles King—The Wesleyan Methodist Pulpit in Malvern

The Sin-Bearer.
A COMMUNION MEDITATION AT MENTONE. "Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."--1 Peter ii. 24, 25. THE SIN-BEARER. THIS wonderful passage is a part of Peter's address to servants; and in his day nearly all servants were slaves. Peter begins at the eighteenth verse: "Servants, be subject
Charles Hadden Spurgeon—Till He Come

That the Grace of God Doth not Join Itself to those who Mind Earthly Things
"My Son, precious is My grace, it suffereth not itself to be joined with outward things, nor with earthly consolations. Therefore thou oughtest to cast away all things which hinder grace, if thou longest to receive the inpouring thereof. Seek a secret place for thyself, love to dwell alone with thyself, desire the conversation of no one; but rather pour out thy devout prayer to God, that thou mayest possess a contrite mind and a pure conscience. Count the whole world as nought; seek to be alone
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

"For Hereunto were Ye Called; Because Christ Also Suffered for You...
"For hereunto were ye called; because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that ye should follow in his steps." It was Friday morning and the Rev. Henry Maxwell was trying to finish his Sunday morning sermon. He had been interrupted several times and was growing nervous as the morning wore away, and the sermon grew very slowly toward a satisfactory finish. "Mary," he called to his wife, as he went upstairs after the last interruption, "if any one comes after this, I wish you would
Charles M. Sheldon—In His Steps

Defective Learning.
"He that believeth on Him shall not be confounded."--1 Peter ii. 6. St. Paul declares that faith is the gift of God (Ephes. ii. 8). His words, "And that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God," refer to the word "faith." A new generation of youthful expositors confidently assert that these words refer to "by grace are ye saved." The majority of them are evidently ignorant of the history of the exegesis of the text. They only know that the pronoun "that" in the clause "and that not of yourselves"
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

From Gallienus to the End of the Last Persecution (Ad 261-313)
Valerian, who had treated the Christians so cruelly, came to a miserable end. He led his army into Persia, where he was defeated and taken prisoner. He was kept for some time in captivity; and we are told that he used to be led forth, loaded with chains, but with the purple robes of an emperor thrown over him, that the Persians might mock at his misfortunes. And when he had died from the effects of shame and grief, it is said that his skin was stuffed with straw, and was kept in a temple, as a remembrance
J. C. Roberston—Sketches of Church History, from AD 33 to the Reformation

A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus Christ;
SHEWING, TRUE GOSPEL-HOLINESS FLOWS FROM THENCE; OR, MR. FOWLER'S PRETENDED DESIGN OF CHRISTIANITY, PROVED TO BE NOTHING MORE THAN TO TRAMPLE UNDER FOOT THE BLOOD OF THE SON OF GOD; AND THE IDOLIZING OF MAN'S OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS AS ALSO, HOW WHILE HE PRETENDS TO BE A MINISTER OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND, HE OVERTHROWETH THE WHOLESOME DOCTRINE CONTAINED IN THE 10TH, 11TH, AND 13TH, OF THE THIRTY-NINE ARTICLES OF THE SAME, AND THAT HE FALLETH IN WITH THE QUAKER AND ROMANIST, AGAINST THEM. BY JOHN BUNYAN
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Justification by an Imputed Righteousness;
OR, NO WAY TO HEAVEN BUT BY JESUS CHRIST. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. This is one of those ten excellent manuscripts which were found among Bunyan's papers after his decease in 1688. It had been prepared by him for publication, but still wanted a few touches of his masterly hand, and a preface in his characteristic style. He had, while a prisoner for nonconformity, in 1672, published a treatise upon this subject, in reply to Mr. Fowler, who was soon after created Bishop of Gloucester; but that was
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

God's Peace Obtained in Answer to Prayer
GOD'S PEACE OBTAINED IN ANSWER TO PRAYER ". . . Let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." -- Phil. 4:6, 7. When we make our requests known unto God by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving we are assured of receiving His peace through Christ Jesus. When we enter into the sacred Presence of the Prince of Peace, we enter into the place of perfect peace. The house of prayer is the sanctuary
T. M. Anderson—Prayer Availeth Much

The First Wall.
Let us, in the first place, attack the first wall. It has been devised, that the Pope, bishops, priests and monks are called the Spiritual Estate; Princes, lords, artificers and peasants, are the Temporal Estate; which is a very fine, hypocritical device. But let no one be made afraid by it; and that for this reason: That all Christians are truly of the Spiritual Estate, and there is no difference among them, save of office alone. As St. Paul says (1 Cor. xii.), we are all one body, though each member
Martin Luther—First Principles of the Reformation

Some Other Writers of the New Testament
[Illustration: (drop cap L) Ancient engraving of man reading scroll] Let us now look at the rest of the books which make up the New Testament. In the days when Paul preached at Athens, the old capital of Greece, much of the ancient splendour and power of the Greek people had passed away, for the Romans had conquered their country, and they were no longer a free nation. Yet, although the Greeks had been forced to yield to Rome, their conquerors knew that the Grecian scholars and artists were far
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making

Of the Primacy of the Romish See.
1. Brief recapitulation. Why the subject of primacy not yet mentioned. Represented by Papists as the bond of ecclesiastical unity. Setting out with this axiom, they begin to debate about their hierarchy. 2. Question stated. An attempted proof from the office of High Priest among the Jews. Two answers. 3. Arguments for primacy from the New Testament. Two answers. 4. Another answer. The keys given to the other apostles as well as to Peter. Other two arguments answered by passages of Cyprian and Augustine.
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

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