The phrase "Marvelous in Our Eyes" is a biblical expression that signifies the wondrous and awe-inspiring works of God, often highlighting His divine intervention and the fulfillment of His promises. This phrase is most notably found in the context of God's redemptive acts and His sovereign will being accomplished in ways that surpass human understanding.

Biblical References:

1. Psalm 118:22-23 : "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is from the LORD, and it is marvelous in our eyes." This passage is a prophetic reference to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who, though rejected by the religious leaders of His time, became the foundation of God's redemptive plan. The "marvelous" nature of this act lies in the unexpected and divine reversal of human expectations, where the rejected stone becomes the most crucial element of God's spiritual edifice.

2. Matthew 21:42 : Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?" Here, Jesus directly applies the prophecy from Psalm 118 to Himself, emphasizing His role as the cornerstone of God's kingdom. The marvel lies in the fulfillment of prophecy and the establishment of a new covenant through Christ.

3. Mark 12:10-11 : "Have you never read this Scripture: 'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?" In this passage, Jesus reiterates the significance of His mission and the divine orchestration of events leading to the establishment of His church. The marvel is in the divine wisdom and power that transforms rejection into triumph.

4. Acts 4:11 : "This Jesus is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.'" The early apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaim the marvel of Christ's resurrection and exaltation, affirming that the rejected Messiah is indeed the foundation of salvation for all who believe.

Theological Significance:

The phrase "Marvelous in Our Eyes" encapsulates the theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His purposes in ways that defy human logic and expectation. It underscores the belief that God's ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9) and that His plans, though sometimes hidden or misunderstood, are ultimately for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

In the context of the New Testament, the marvel is not only in the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy but also in the establishment of a new covenant through Jesus Christ. The rejected stone becoming the cornerstone symbolizes the transformative power of God's grace, turning what was deemed worthless into something of utmost value and significance.

Application for Believers:

For believers, the phrase serves as a reminder to trust in God's providence and timing, even when circumstances seem unfavorable or confusing. It encourages faith in the midst of trials, with the assurance that God's plans are always for the ultimate good and His glory. The marvel of God's works invites believers to worship and reverence, acknowledging His wisdom and power in orchestrating the events of history and personal lives for His divine purposes.