The Living Stone

The concept of the "Living Stone" is primarily derived from the New Testament, specifically in the writings of the Apostle Peter. In 1 Peter 2:4-5 , it is written: "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" to God. This imagery draws from Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 28:16, which speaks of a cornerstone laid by God in Zion, a stone that is foundational and unshakeable. The metaphor of the stone signifies strength, stability, and permanence, attributes that are fulfilled in Christ as the cornerstone 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 redemptive plan. This choice underscores the divine approval and the fulfillment of God's promises through Christ.

Believers, as "living stones," are called to be part of this spiritual edifice, the Church, which is built upon Christ. This spiritual house is not a physical structure but a community of faith, where believers are called to serve as a "holy priesthood." This priesthood involves offering "spiritual sacrifices," which include acts of worship, service, and obedience to God, made acceptable through Jesus Christ.

Chosen People

The term "Chosen People" has its roots in the Old Testament, where it initially refers to the nation of Israel. In Deuteronomy 7:6 , God declares to Israel: "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth." Israel's election as God's chosen people was based on His covenant with Abraham and was intended to be a light to the nations, demonstrating God's holiness and love.

In the New Testament, the concept of the "Chosen People" is expanded to include all who are in Christ, both Jew and Gentile. 1 Peter 2:9 states: "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 echoes the language used for Israel, now applied to the Church, the body of believers in Jesus Christ.

The Church, as the "Chosen People," is called to live out its identity by proclaiming the virtues of God and reflecting His light in a world of darkness. This calling involves a life of holiness, service, and witness, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel. The election of believers is rooted in God's grace and purpose, emphasizing that it is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign choice.

The identity of the Church as a "royal priesthood" and "holy nation" signifies a collective calling to serve God and mediate His presence to the world. This priestly role involves intercession, worship, and the proclamation of God's Word, reflecting the priestly ministry of Christ Himself.

In summary, the "Living Stone" and "Chosen People" are interconnected themes that highlight the centrality of Christ as the foundation of the Church and the calling of believers to be a distinct and holy community, set apart for God's purposes in the world.