Reflection on Ephesians 2:20: "being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone;"
In Ephesians 2:20, the apostle Paul beautifully encapsulates the spiritual architecture of the Church. The imagery of a building constructed on a firm foundation speaks to both stability and purpose. Here, the foundation is laid by the apostles and prophets, while Christ Jesus is the indispensable chief cornerstone, the key element that holds everything together.
Holiness
The concept of holiness in this verse emerges from the firm foundation on which believers stand. The apostles and prophets were chosen vessels through whom God revealed His holy will, guiding the early Church to live in obedience and purity. Christ, as the chief cornerstone, is the ultimate standard of holiness. His sinless life and sacrificial love set the pattern for all who follow Him.
Being built on this foundation means that the Church is called to reflect Christ’s holiness in every aspect of life. It is not a holiness born of human effort alone but one rooted deeply in the finished work of Jesus, empowering believers to grow in sanctification daily.
Compassion
While holiness speaks to purity, compassion reflects the heart of Christ as the cornerstone. Jesus’ ministry was marked by mercy and love for the broken and marginalized. The foundation of apostles and prophets includes their teachings about love, grace, and inclusion, encouraging the Church to extend compassion to others.
As the Church is built upon this foundation, it is called to embody Christ’s compassion, reaching out to the hurting with kindness and understanding. This balance of holiness and compassion creates a community that is both set apart and deeply engaged in loving service.
Christ as the chief cornerstone is the unifying force that integrates holiness and compassion within the Church. Without Him, the structure would falter; with Him, it stands strong and vibrant.
- The apostles and prophets provide the doctrinal foundation rooted in God’s revelation.
- Christ as the cornerstone aligns and secures the Church’s mission and identity.
- Holiness flows from the foundation, calling believers to purity and obedience.
- Compassion flows from the cornerstone, urging believers to love and serve others.
- The Church is both a sacred temple and a community of grace.
- Our faith is built on historical truth and living relationship with Jesus.
- Spiritual growth depends on staying connected to this foundation and cornerstone.
- Challenges to the Church are met with resilience grounded in Christ’s strength.
"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 3:11)
This passage from Corinthians echoes the truth in Ephesians 2:20—Jesus Christ is the only true foundation for the Church. Recognizing Him as the chief cornerstone calls us to examine our lives and communities, ensuring we are built upon His teachings and character.
In a world of shifting values and uncertain ground, this verse reassures believers that the Church’s foundation remains unshakable. The apostles and prophets point us to the revelation of God’s will, but it is Christ alone who holds the entire structure together. As we grow in holiness and extend compassion, we participate in this divine construction, becoming living stones in God’s eternal house.