The Significance of the Cornerstone in Isaiah 28:16: A Beacon of Strength and Trust

The Biblical Context:

The Book of Isaiah, a powerful and prophetic message from God, includes several profound messages concerning the future of humanity. One notable verse, Isaiah 28:16, stands as a cornerstone for understanding enduring principles of faith and spiritual foundation. The verse is as follows:

Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah says: “Here I am laying as a foundation in Zion a tested stone, The precious cornerstone of a sure foundation. No one exercising faith will panic.”

This verse is not merely a statement of architectural precision but a significant theological assertion, paralleling earthly structures with the divine.

The Function of a Cornerstone

In architectural terms, the cornerstone is both an essential and symbolic element. It serves as the foundation upon which a building is erected, a role crucial for its stability and integrity. Functionally, the cornerstone:

Serves as a reference point for aligning subsequent stones. Acts as a connecting element between different walls, ensuring they fit together perfectly. Is often the most carefully chosen and crafted stone, denoting its importance.

Metaphorically, the cornerstone in Isaiah 28:16 refers to a divine element that underpins the spiritual and eternal foundation of a city, symbolizing the stability and guiding principle for a community.

Choosing the Right Foundation

Building a structure, whether it's a home or a community, requires a robust and tested foundation. Similarly, in the context of faith, one needs to choose wisely. Just as a contractor would not use a soapstone for a building cornerstone, one must not settle for lesser elements in matters of spiritual and eternal significance. A granite cornerstone, representing strength and permanence, is the ideal choice.

"You would want the best since your family’s life is dependent on your choice."

Here, Jehovah emphasizes the importance of His chosen cornerstone. He must be the foundation, not just any stone, to ensure the stability and growth of His human children towards an eternal future.

The Work of Jesus as the Cornerstone

The cornerstone described in Isaiah 28:16 is not just a metaphor; it points to Jesus Christ, who is the true Cornerstone. Jesus, as the tested stone, not only endured the pressures and tests but also stood firm, proving to be solid and reliable.

“For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses but we have one who has been tested in all respects as we have but without sin.”

The book of Hebrews further underscores this by stating:

Hebrews 4:15: “For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses but we have one who has been tested in all respects as we have but without sin.”

Jesus’ life, marked by divine guidance and wisdom, through the holy spirit, coupled with his ability to face and overcome the Devil’s temptations and symbolic battles, makes Him the perfect hinge upon which eternal reality hinges. His faithfulness in following and embodying divine law, even under intense scrutiny, is unparalleled.

The Building of the City of God

Isaiah 65:18 hints at this by envisioning a future city that is secure and harmonious:

“but be joyful in the Lord and rejoice, all you who find your joy in Him, for I will minister justice to the people in true righteousness, and I will respond to the prayers of the clans.”

The everlasting city, New Jerusalem, is built on a foundation that includes Jesus, proving it to be a place of certainty and faith.

Conclusion

In the grand narrative of faith, the cornerstone is not just a symbol; it is a living testament to the divine. The tested stone of Isaiah 28:16 is Jesus Christ, the solid and permanent foundation that guides humanity towards an eternal home. Choosing Jesus as our cornerstone is not just a matter of belief; it is a strategic and necessary step towards moral, spiritual, and eternal security.