LIVING AS STONES
1 PETER 2:4-5
As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious,
you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood,
to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
(1 Peter 2:4-5 ESV)
In 1 Peter 2:5, "living stones" is a figurative expression for the assured and passionate connection
believers have with Jesus, who is referred to as the "living Stone" in the preceding passage (1 Peter 2:4).
Collectively, both of these texts illustrate how Christ and His followers are united by God: "As you come
to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to Him—you also, like living
stones, are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices
acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 2:4–5).
So, what does it truly mean to be living stones? A living stone is one that is not afraid to share the good
news of Christ's redemptive work on the cross. It is engaging in your faith. It is not enough to check a box
because you made Sunday morning service. Living stones are called to be the same men on Monday that
they were on Sunday. Because of Jesus Christ, Christians are to be resilient, powerful, and alive. Peter
encourages his readers to “Allow yourselves to be erected into a spiritual home." As we unite, each of us
as a living stone, the power of Jesus Christ builds us into something greater. I believe Soloman said it best
this way, “And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold
cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 ESV).
As living stones, we are continually shaped and molded throughout our lives. As our daily walk and
relationship with the Father grow stronger with each passing day, we begin to increasingly reflect Christ's
image. As we cultivate godly relationships with those around us and begin to disciple new Christians,
additional living stones begin to emerge. This is how the kingdom of heaven is built.
