MAY 12, 2023 – NOT ASHAMED

READ: Matt. 21:42-46

… Behold, I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, … he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame, … precious; but to those who are disobedient, a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense. – 1 Pet. 2:6-8

Our salvation depends entirely on our relationship with Christ. Peter emphasizes His exalted position. It is important to be aware of this, because it is decisive. He refers to Scripture for this: that passage begins with a divine warning and exhortation: “Behold.” Pay attention! “I lay in Zion,” where I dwell among My people, “a chief cornerstone that is chosen and precious.” The building of God’s house rests on it. 

Everyone is faced with the choice: accept or reject Him. God Himself considers this “stone” precious and has chosen Him for the cornerstone. What do we think of Christ? If you believe in Him, entrust yourself to Him with complete  faith, regardless of the situation you are in and the consequences this may have. Then you will not be put to shame. 

This divine assurance is for anyone who places their hope in  Christ. You will not be deceived, even though the circumstances may suggest that as a believer and church, you are oppressed and persecuted. For God’s assurance is that Christ will prove victorious, now that He has triumphantly ascended to heaven. Thus, you can persevere in faith in all circumstances with God’s Word.

But for those who reject this stone, who stumble and are offended by the Word, Christ becomes a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense. This divine word is also true: Christ will one day condemn all who have rejected Him in disobedience. They are guilty of this, even though they were predestined for it in God’s counsel.

How do  you work with this promise?

Singing: Ps. 118:8