Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

MATTHEW 21:42KJV
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Matthew 21:42 (KJV)

What does Matthew 21:42 mean?

Matthew 21:42 describes Jesus quoting scripture to show that something rejected as unimportant or unworthy—symbolized by a "stone"—has become the most important part, the "head of the corner," by God's action, which is astonishing to those who see it. Jesus is emphasizing that what people overlook or dismiss can be chosen and honored by God in a remarkable way.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to religious leaders in Jerusalem after telling a parable about tenants who mistreated their master's servants and son. He quotes from the Hebrew scriptures (Psalm 118:22-23) to challenge their understanding and to point out that God's plans often overturn human expectations. The "stone" refers to someone or something rejected by people but chosen by God for a special purpose.

The Greek behind Matthew 21:42

  • "λίθος" (lithos, G3037) means "stone." Here, it represents a person or thing that is dismissed or undervalued by others, but which God chooses for a foundational role.
  • "ἀπεδοκίμασαν" (apedokimasan, G593) means "rejected." The Greek word carries the sense of being examined and deliberately cast aside, not just overlooked by accident.
  • "κεφαλὴν γωνίας" (kephalēn gōnias, G2776 G1137) means "head of the corner" or "cornerstone." In building, this is the most important stone, setting the alignment for the entire structure; in context, it points to someone given the highest place by God.
  • "θαυμαστή" (thaumastē, G2298) means "marvellous" or "wonderful." The Greek word emphasizes something that causes amazement or awe, highlighting how surprising God's actions can be.

Why Matthew 21:42 matters

  • Matthew 21:42 clears up the idea that being rejected by people means being rejected by God; it shows that God's choices often run counter to human judgment.
  • This verse highlights a turning point in Jesus' conversation with the religious leaders, warning them that their rejection of him is actually fulfilling scripture.
  • The use of the "cornerstone" image connects Jesus' story to a long-standing biblical theme, helping readers see how Jesus fits into the larger story of God's work in history.

Where else these words appear

“marvellous” Greek G2298 · used in 7 verses

  • Mark 12:11 This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?
  • 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
  • Revelation 15:1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

“rejected” Greek G593 · used in 9 verses

  • Mark 8:31 And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.
  • Luke 9:22 Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.
  • Hebrews 12:17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

“corner” Greek G1137 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
  • Luke 20:17 And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?
  • 1 Peter 2:7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,

“never” Greek G3763 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
  • Mark 2:12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.
  • Acts 11:8 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.