Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
1 PETER 2:6KJVWhat does 1 Peter 2:6 mean?
1 Peter 2:6 says that God has chosen and set in place a special, valuable cornerstone in Zion, and anyone who trusts in this cornerstone will not be put to shame or disappointed. The verse uses the image of a cornerstone to show the security and honor given to those who believe.
Peter is writing to early Christians, many of whom faced rejection and hardship. He quotes from Scripture to assure them that their faith in Jesus—the cornerstone—is solid and honored by God, even if others reject them. The verse highlights both the value of Jesus and the confidence believers can have in him.
The Greek behind 1 Peter 2:6
- "corner stone" (ἀκρογωνιαῖος λίθος, akrogōniaios lithos): This phrase means the most important stone in a building, setting the foundation and alignment for the rest. Calling Jesus this shows his central role in God’s plan.
- "confounded" (καταισχυνθῇ, kataischynthē): This word is often understood as "put to shame" or "disappointed." The Greek here carries the sense of not being let down or disgraced, emphasizing the security found in trusting the cornerstone.
- "precious" (ἔντιμος, entimos): This word means highly valued or honored. The verse stresses that Jesus is not just chosen, but deeply treasured by God.
Why 1 Peter 2:6 matters
- The verse reassures believers that faith in Jesus is never misplaced, even if society rejects or misunderstands them.
- By quoting Scripture, Peter connects the Christian experience to God’s longstanding promises, showing continuity with the story of Israel.
- The image of the cornerstone helps clarify that Jesus is the foundation of the community, not just one part among many. This shapes how Christians understand their identity and security.