Matthew 21:42 Meaning and Explanation
“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?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus cites the Scripture that the stone the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone, the Lord's marvelous work.
What Does Matthew 21:42 Mean?
Jesus crowns the parable with Scripture, quoting the psalm about the stone the builders rejected becoming "the head of the corner." He declares this to be the Lord's doing, marvelous in their eyes. The rejected stone is exalted to the place of greatest honor.
The image gathers the whole parable into one bright truth. The Son who is rejected becomes the very foundation on which God builds. What the builders cast aside, God makes the cornerstone of His purpose. This is the gospel in miniature: the rejection of Christ is overturned by His exaltation. The reader is invited to marvel at a God who lifts the despised to the highest place and builds His kingdom upon Him.
Matthew 21:42 in the Original Language
kephale gonias (κεφαλὴ γωνίας), 'head of the corner' -- the chief stone that anchors the whole building.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 21:42
What does Matthew 21:42 mean?
Jesus cites the Scripture that the stone the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone, the Lord's marvelous work.