When a previously complex solution is superseded by a simple solution the "builders" will not accept it.
So true, dear Sab (good morning and peace to you!). That Christ also became the "cornerstone" in the TRUE temple of God is important. This importance is greatly misunderstood and overlooked today because of the modern status of a cornerstone: today, it usually refers to a ceremonial masonry stone (or facade) set in a prominent location on the outside of a building that includes some kind of inscription indicating the construction dates of the building and the names of the honoree, architect, builder, and other significant individuals involved in the building's construction/existence. Some cultures actually consider the placing ("laying") of the cornerstone an important rite. Particularly with regard to "sacred" architecture (churches, temples, cathedrals, synagogues) and state buildings or buildings constructed with public funds. Some of these stones are hollow and contain timecapsules and other items (blueprints, plans, etc.).
Historically, however, the cornerstone (or foundation stone) was the FIRST stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation and was important because all other stones were set in reference to that stone and so determining the position of the entire structure.
As the foundation cornerstone Christ is the FIRST stone set in the TRUE temple of God, the "place" in which God (will) dwell(s) by spirit, which temple is made of people (Acts 17:24, 25; 1 Corinthians 3:16; Ephesians 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:5; Revelation 3:12; 21:22-26). He is the stone that those who were hired... and charged with building God's temple... rejected. Because, as you rightly state... per THEIR "view"... the building wouldn't have been GRAND enough with such a foundation stone. If HE... of small stature and appearing sickly, even afflicted and cursed by God... was to be the FIRST stone... what would the entire building look like?? Surely, if the foundation stone was "imperfect"... then the whole building would have been "imperfect"... even unsound!
What they missed is that, unlike them, God does not look at the outward appearance for He sees NOT as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but JaHVeH looks at the heart. (1 Samuel 16:27; John 7:24; 2 Corinthians 5:12). And in looking at Christ's heart, the MOST Holy One of Israel, JAHVEH... did not find him wanting; to the contrary, He found him PERFECT. And so, chose him as the FIRST stone in His true temple. He then allowed that One to choose... and so that One has... the WEAK, FOOLISH, and IGNOBLE things of the world... to be the remaining "stones." (1 Corinthians 1:26-30).
Thank you for continuing the discussion... and you, dear Strypes and Fernando (peace to you both!) for getting the thread back on topic, at least as to the title.
A doulos of Christ (yes, indeed, and most willingly so!),
SA
