The Living Stone

The concept of the "Living Stone" is primarily derived from the New Testament, specifically in the First Epistle of Peter. In 1 Peter 2:4-5 , the apostle Peter writes, "As you come to Him, the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God’s sight, you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ."

The "Living Stone" refers to Jesus Christ, who is described as both "rejected by men" and "chosen and precious in God’s sight." This imagery draws from Old Testament prophecies, particularly Isaiah 28:16, which speaks of a cornerstone laid by God in Zion, a stone that is tested and precious. The metaphor of the stone signifies strength, stability, and permanence, attributes that are fulfilled in Christ as the foundation of the Church.

The rejection of the Living Stone by men alludes to the crucifixion of Jesus, where He was despised and rejected by the religious leaders and the people of His time. Despite this rejection, God has chosen Him as the cornerstone of His spiritual house. This cornerstone is essential for the structure and unity of the Church, which is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20).

Believers, as "living stones," are called to be part of this spiritual edifice. They are to emulate Christ, participating in the building of the Church through their faith and actions. This spiritual house is not a physical structure but a community of believers who offer "spiritual sacrifices" through worship, service, and holy living.

A Chosen People

The notion of a "Chosen People" is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, beginning with God's covenant with Abraham and extending through the history of Israel. In the New Testament, this concept is expanded to include all who are in Christ, both Jew and Gentile. 1 Peter 2:9 declares, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

This passage highlights the identity and purpose of believers as God's chosen people. The terms "royal priesthood" and "holy nation" echo the language used in Exodus 19:5-6, where God designates Israel as His treasured possession and a kingdom of priests. In Christ, this calling is extended to the Church, which is now the spiritual Israel, a community set apart for God's purposes.

As a "royal priesthood," believers have direct access to God through Jesus Christ, the High Priest. They are called to intercede for others, offer spiritual sacrifices, and live lives that reflect God's holiness. The priesthood of all believers signifies that each Christian has a role in God's redemptive plan, serving as ambassadors of His kingdom.

The designation of being a "holy nation" underscores the call to be distinct from the world, living according to God's standards and values. Holiness involves both separation from sin and dedication to God, manifesting in righteous living and obedience to His commands.

The purpose of being a chosen people is to "proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This mission involves bearing witness to God's transformative power and grace, sharing the gospel, and living in a way that glorifies God. Believers are to be a light in the world, reflecting the character of Christ and drawing others to Him.

In summary, the imagery of the Living Stone and a Chosen People encapsulates the identity and mission of the Church. Rooted in Christ, the cornerstone, believers are called to be a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, and a distinct community that proclaims the excellencies of God.