1 Peter 2:7

KJV

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,

KJV (with Strong's)

Unto you {G5213} therefore {G3767} which {G3588} believe {G4100} he is precious {G5092}: but {G1161} unto them which be disobedient {G544}, the stone {G3037} which {G3739} the builders {G3618} disallowed {G593}, the same {G3778} is made {G1096}{G1519} the head {G2776} of the corner {G1137},

Complete Jewish Bible

Now to you who keep trusting, he is precious. But to those who are not trusting,

“The very stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone”;

Berean Standard Bible

To you who believe, then, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”

American Standard Version

For you therefore that believe is the preciousness: but for such as disbelieve, The stone which the builders rejected, The same was made the head of the corner;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Peter 2:7 powerfully articulates the divergent responses to Jesus Christ, establishing Him as the indispensable cornerstone of God's redemptive plan. For those who embrace Him in faith, He is supremely valuable and honored, the very foundation of their spiritual lives. Conversely, for those who willfully reject Him through disobedience, He becomes the very stone that the "builders" (a reference to those in authority, particularly Jewish religious leaders) once discarded, yet whom God has now exalted to the preeminent position as the "head of the corner," signifying His ultimate authority and essential role in the divine architecture of salvation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Peter's broader theological argument concerning the identity of Christ and the identity of believers. In the preceding verses, Peter introduces the imagery of Christ as the "living stone" (1 Peter 2:4), chosen by God and precious. He then extends this metaphor to believers, describing them as "living stones" being built into a "spiritual house" and a "holy priesthood" (1 Peter 2:5) to offer spiritual sacrifices. Peter grounds this concept in Old Testament prophecy, quoting from Isaiah 28:16 and Psalm 118:22 in 1 Peter 2:6, which speak of God laying a "chief corner stone, elect, precious." Verse 7 directly builds upon this foundation, elaborating on the contrasting outcomes based on one's response to this divine cornerstone, setting the stage for the warning about Christ being a "stone of stumbling" in [1 Peter 2:8](/1_peter/2-8 "1 Peter 2:8 - A Stone of Stumbling").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter is writing to scattered Christians in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), likely facing various forms of social ostracism and nascent persecution. These believers, many of whom were Gentiles, were being integrated into a community whose identity was deeply rooted in Old Testament promises and imagery. The architectural metaphor of a "cornerstone" or "head of the corner" would have been readily understood in the ancient world. This stone was crucial for the stability and alignment of a building, often laid first and determining the orientation of the entire structure. It could refer to the foundational stone at the juncture of two walls or the capstone at the apex of an arch or wall, binding the structure together. The reference to "builders" often implies those who were responsible for constructing the religious and social framework of Israel, particularly the religious leaders of Jesus' time who rejected Him.
* **Key Themes:** First Peter 2:7 contributes significantly to several major theological themes within the epistle and the broader New Testament. It underscores **Christ's Supremacy and Divine Election**, emphasizing that despite human rejection, God has sovereignly exalted Him to the position of ultimate authority and indispensable significance. This verse also highlights the **Dichotomy of Faith and Disobedience**, presenting a stark contrast in how individuals relate to Christ, leading to vastly different spiritual destinies. For believers, Christ is the source of their spiritual **Preciousness and Identity**, as they are built upon Him. For the disobedient, He becomes a source of judgment and spiritual failure, echoing the themes found throughout [Psalm 118](/psalm/118 "Psalm 118 - The Lord's Steadfast Love") and applied by Jesus Himself in [Matthew 21:42](/matthew/21-42 "Matthew 21:42 - The Parable of the Wicked Tenants").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Precious (Greek, _timḗ_):** This word signifies a high value, honor, esteem, or dignity. In this context, it conveys the immense worth and profound significance that Christ holds for those who believe in Him. It's not merely that He is valuable, but that He is held in the highest regard, cherished and honored above all else by His followers.
* **Disobedient (Greek, _apeithéō_):** Derived from a root meaning "to disbelieve," this term describes a willful and perverse refusal to be persuaded or to obey. It implies not just a lack of understanding, but an active, deliberate rejection of truth or authority. Here, it characterizes those who, despite evidence or revelation, stubbornly refuse to submit to Christ.
* **Disallowed (Greek, _apodokimázō_):** This verb means "to reject after testing or scrutiny," or "to disapprove." It suggests that the "builders" examined Jesus, found Him wanting according to their own criteria, and consequently repudiated Him. This rejection was not accidental but a deliberate, considered act of dismissal.
* **Is made (Greek, _gínomai_):** This versatile verb means "to come into being," "to become," or "to happen." In this passive construction, "is made," it emphasizes that Christ's exaltation to the "head of the corner" is not a result of human effort or approval, but a divine act. It highlights God's sovereign intervention in establishing Christ's preeminence despite human rejection.
* **Head (Greek, _kephalḗ_):** Literally "head," this word is used figuratively to denote the chief, leader, or supreme authority. In the context of a building, the "head of the corner" refers to the most crucial stone, whether foundational or crowning, that unifies and completes the structure, signifying Christ's supreme and indispensable position.
* **Corner (Greek, _gōnía_):** This term refers to an angle or corner, specifically the corner of a building. In combination with "head," it reinforces the architectural metaphor, pointing to Christ's role as the essential stone that binds together and provides stability for the entire spiritual edifice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Unto you therefore which believe [he is] precious:"** This clause establishes the first of two contrasting responses to Christ. For those who have placed their faith (Gk. _pisteúō_) in Him, Jesus is of immeasurable value (Gk. _timḗ_). He is honored, esteemed, and cherished, reflecting a deep spiritual understanding of His person and redemptive work. This "preciousness" is not merely an intellectual assent but a heartfelt recognition of His supreme worth in their lives.
* **"but unto them which be disobedient,"** This introduces the stark contrast. The conjunction "but" (Gk. _dé_) signals a shift to those who respond differently. "Disobedient" (Gk. _apeithéō_) describes those who willfully refuse to believe or submit to Christ. Their response is characterized by a stubborn rejection of God's truth as revealed in Jesus.
* **"the stone which the builders disallowed,"** This phrase directly references Psalm 118:22, identifying Christ as the "stone" (Gk. _líthos_) that was rejected. The "builders" (Gk. _oikodoméō_, house-builders), often interpreted as the religious authorities of Israel, are depicted as having scrutinized and then deliberately "disallowed" (Gk. _apodokimázō_), or repudiated, Jesus. They deemed Him unfit or unworthy according to their own flawed criteria.
* **"the same is made the head of the corner,"** Despite the rejection by human "builders," this clause declares God's sovereign act of exaltation. The very stone they "disallowed" has been divinely "made" (Gk. _gínomai_, indicating a divine act of becoming) the "head of the corner" (Gk. _kephalḗ gōnía_). This signifies Christ's ultimate and indispensable position as the foundational and unifying stone of God's spiritual temple, the Church. He is the supreme authority and the essential element upon which all true spiritual reality rests.

#### Literary Devices
First Peter 2:7 is rich in **Symbolism**, primarily employing the architectural metaphor of the "stone." Jesus is symbolized as the "living stone" and the "head of the corner," representing His foundational, unifying, and supreme role in God's redemptive plan. This imagery draws directly from Old Testament prophecies, establishing a powerful connection between the old covenant and the new. The verse also utilizes **Contrast** (or antithesis), setting up a stark dichotomy between the "precious" experience of believers and the rejection faced by the "disobedient." This highlights the critical nature of one's response to Christ. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** in the "builders" disallowing the very stone that God then exalts to the most crucial position, underscoring the folly of human wisdom compared to divine wisdom. The phrase "the same is made the head of the corner" also demonstrates **Divine Passive**, where the action (being made the head of the corner) is attributed to God, even if not explicitly stated, emphasizing His sovereign power in Christ's exaltation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Peter 2:7 stands as a cornerstone (pun intended) of New Testament Christology, affirming Jesus' unique and indispensable role in salvation history. It highlights the divine paradox where the one rejected by human authorities becomes the one exalted by God to the position of ultimate authority and significance. This verse underscores the sovereignty of God in His plan of salvation, demonstrating that human unbelief cannot thwart His purposes. It also establishes a fundamental theological truth: one's eternal destiny is irrevocably tied to their response to Jesus Christ. He is either the precious foundation upon which life is built or the stone over which one stumbles into judgment. This truth resonates throughout Scripture, emphasizing the exclusivity and centrality of Christ for salvation and spiritual life.

* [Psalm 118:22](/psalm/118-22 "Psalm 118:22 - The Rejected Stone")
* [Matthew 21:42](/matthew/21-42 "Matthew 21:42 - Jesus' Parable of the Wicked Tenants")
* [Acts 4:11](/acts/4-11 "Acts 4:11 - Peter's Sermon to the Sanhedrin")
* [Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the Chief Cornerstone")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Peter 2:7 presents a profound spiritual challenge and comfort. For those who believe, it is a glorious affirmation of Christ's unparalleled worth and His secure place as the foundation of our faith and lives. In a world that often dismisses or even ridicules faith, this verse reminds us that our Savior is not just a historical figure, but the "precious" and essential "head of the corner," holding all things together. This should inspire deeper worship, unwavering trust, and a profound sense of security in His divine authority. For those who are disobedient, the verse serves as a sober warning: rejecting Christ is not a neutral act, but a choice to stumble over the very stone designed for salvation. It calls for introspection, urging every individual to examine their own heart's response to Jesus. Is He precious to you, or have you, like the ancient builders, disallowed Him? Our eternal standing and the very structure of our lives depend on how we answer this question, for Christ remains the ultimate arbiter and foundation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I demonstrate that Jesus is "precious" to me in my daily life and priorities?**
* **How does the imagery of Christ as the "head of the corner" impact my understanding of His authority and my submission to Him?**
* **Considering the "disobedient" who disallowed Christ, what are modern-day forms of rejecting or dismissing Jesus, and how can I guard against them?**
* **How does this verse encourage me when I feel rejected or misunderstood for my faith in Christ?**

### FAQ
**What does "the head of the corner" mean in this verse?**

Answer: "The head of the corner" (Greek: _kephalḗ gōnía_) is an architectural metaphor referring to the most crucial stone in a building. It can signify either the foundational stone laid at the intersection of two walls, which aligns and supports the entire structure, or the capstone at the very top of an arch or wall, which binds the structure together and completes it. In either interpretation, it emphasizes Christ's supreme importance, His indispensable role as the foundation and unifier of God's spiritual temple (the Church), and His ultimate authority over all things. This imagery is rooted in Old Testament prophecy, particularly [Psalm 118:22](/psalm/118-22 "Psalm 118:22 - The Rejected Stone"), which speaks of the rejected stone becoming the chief cornerstone.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Peter 2:7 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and exaltation. The "stone which the builders disallowed" is a direct prophetic reference to Jesus, who was rejected by the religious and political authorities of His day, ultimately leading to His crucifixion. Yet, in a stunning display of divine reversal, God "made" this very rejected stone "the head of the corner." This points directly to Christ's resurrection from the dead and His subsequent ascension to the right hand of God, where He now reigns as Lord and Christ, the supreme authority over all creation (as seen in [Acts 2:36](/acts/2-36 "Acts 2:36 - Peter's Pentecost Sermon") and [Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20-22 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ's Supremacy")). For believers, this means that the one they trust is not merely a human teacher or martyr, but the divinely appointed and exalted Lord, the very foundation upon whom their salvation and eternal hope securely rest (as Paul declares in [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ as the Only Foundation")). His preciousness to us is rooted in His perfect obedience, His atoning sacrifice on the cross, and His victorious resurrection, all of which confirm His unique status as the essential "cornerstone" of God's redemptive work.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 118:22

The stone [which] the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner.

Psalms 118:23

This is the LORD'S doing; it [is] marvellous in our eyes.

Acts 4:11

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Acts 4:12

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Mark 12:10

And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:

Mark 12:11

This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?

Matthew 21:42

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?