### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **líthos**, represented by `{{G3037}}`, is a primary word for **stone**. It appears 60 times across 55 unique verses and is used both literally, referring to a physical rock, and figuratively for foundational spiritual truths. Its applications range from simple objects to powerful symbols of Christ and His church.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{G3037}}` is used to describe the stone rolled away from Christ's sepulchre [[John 20:1]], the stones God could raise up as children to Abraham [[Matthew 3:9]], and the stones used for building the temple [[Mark 13:1]]. Figuratively, it takes on immense theological weight. Jesus is identified as the cornerstone rejected by the builders [[Matthew 21:42]]. This same stone is also described as a "stumblingstone" and a "rock of offence" for the disobedient ([[Romans 9:33]], [[1 Peter 2:8]]). Believers, in turn, are called "lively stones" being built up into a spiritual house [[1 Peter 2:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context to the symbolism of `{{G3037}}`:
* `{{G4073}}` **pétra** (a (mass of) rock): This term often signifies a large, foundational rock, as when Jesus states He will build His church upon "this **rock**" [[Matthew 16:18]]. It is also used to describe the spiritual **Rock** that followed Israel, which was Christ [[1 Corinthians 10:4]].
* `{{G204}}` **akrogōniaîos** (belonging to the extreme corner): This specifies the unique role of a **chief corner** stone. It is used to describe Jesus as the elect and precious stone laid in Sion, the foundational piece of the spiritual building [[1 Peter 2:6]].
* `{{G4348}}` **próskomma** (a stub, i.e. (figuratively) occasion of apostasy): This word is directly paired with `{{G3037}}` to describe Christ as a "stumblingstone," an occasion for apostasy or **offence** to those who do not seek righteousness by faith [[Romans 9:32-33]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G3037}}` is centered on the person and work of Christ:
* **Christ as the Cornerstone:** The stone the builders rejected has become the "head of the corner" ([[Matthew 21:42]], [[Acts 4:11]]). This illustrates Christ's rejection by human authorities and His ultimate exaltation by God as the essential foundation of the church.
* **A Stone of Judgment and Offense:** For those who are disobedient, Christ is a "stone of stumbling" [[1 Peter 2:8]]. Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken, but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder, signifying judgment [[Matthew 21:44]].
* **The Church as a Spiritual Building:** Believers are identified as "lively stones" built upon the foundation of Christ [[1 Peter 2:5]]. This metaphor extends the identity of the cornerstone to the very people who form His spiritual house.
* **Foundation and Value:** In lists of building materials, `{{G3037}}` appears as "precious stones," ranked alongside gold and silver, signifying materials of eternal value built upon the foundation of Christ [[1 Corinthians 3:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3037}}` transitions from a common physical object to a central Christological symbol. It represents the foundational, indispensable nature of Christ, who is both the precious cornerstone for believers and a stone of offense and judgment for unbelievers. The word powerfully illustrates how God uses the rejected to establish His eternal kingdom, with believers themselves becoming living stones in His divine structure.
TRV