Definition: 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?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 20:17. It’s a really significant and often misunderstood part of Jesus’s teaching. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about Jesus’s power to transform something ordinary into something incredibly important. It’s essentially saying that everything – even a seemingly insignificant stone – can be changed by God’s will. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he beheld them…” : Jesus was looking at a stone, likely placed in a temple or location where it wasn't considered important. “…and said, What is this then that is written?”” : He paused and asked a question – "What does this mean?" He’s recognizing something unusual. “The stone which the builders rejected…” : This refers to the original stone placed in the temple. It was rejected by the people who built it because they didn't think it was good enough, or that it wasn't right according to their expectations. “…the same is become the head of the corner?”” : This is the crucial part. The stone has been changed. It’s become a leader or a central point – a “head.” What does this all mean? Jesus is saying that through his power and authority, he can bring something previously considered unimportant – a stone – into a position of great significance. It's a powerful metaphor for: Transformation: God’s will always transforms things. Things we think are ordinary or insignificant can become extraordinary when guided by Him. Authority & Power: This verse highlights Jesus’s authority and power over creation. He isn’t just doing something; he is making it happen. Why is this important? This story is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection. The stone represents the old, flawed ways of worship, and Jesus’s act of transforming it into a head signifies his victory over death and offering salvation to humanity. In short: Jesus is demonstrating that anything can be changed by God's will, and that this change has profound significance. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Give you a more detailed explanation of a specific aspect (like the symbolism)?