November 19, 2021 - Isaiah 28:16-17
Foundation work is difficult and often overlooked by the common observer and even the homeowner. After it is completed, it is buried and never seen again by most people. Yet it is the most important element in the construction of an edifice. My father-in-law used to say, “What is covered in a building is more important than what is seen.”
That simple truth is clearly taught in the scriptures as Isaiah brings the concept of a foundation stone being laid for the nation. The people of Israel had floundered as they lived under a government that had rejected the Lord. The people in leadership had made an agreement with foreign nations instead of listening to the Lord and his prophets. The result was the Lord bringing this prophetic promise to the people of God.
As deception and lies threatened to tear apart the superstructure, God reminded His people of a foundation which was secure and solid. Despite the terror that was occurring on the surface of Israel, God’s sure foundation remained.
In the New Testament, the Isaiah prophecy being referenced, highlights Jesus Christ as the chief cornerstone (Acts 4:11, 1 Peter 2:6-8). A new building, the church, was being built upon the foundation which the New Testament writers declared were Jesus and his apostles. Luke states unequivocally that Jesus is the foundation that God has established for the people of Israel and all mankind to receive salvation (Acts 4:10-12).
Paul continues this thought in Ephesians 2:19-20, when he speaks of the apostles and prophets being the foundation and Christ the cornerstone. This groundwork allowed both Jews and Gentiles inclusion in the church. Finally in 1 Peter 2:4-8, Peter instructs his readers of the revelation that they are spiritual stones being built into a holy building with Christ as the cornerstone.
Like in Isaiah’s time, it may appear that God’s word and work is under attack but take courage. Forces may seek to destroy or assert that the historic, age-old certainties of biblical truths are unnecessary but remain obedient to the Word of God.
Peter concludes with “Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, ‘The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, and a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.’” Allow Jesus Christ, the Rock and Cornerstone to be our firm foundation. May we trust that Christ alone is in control and will subdue all who oppose Him at the appointed time! “Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)