Book of Luke - Chapter 20 - Verse 17

When Jesus said, "What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?" He was referring to a prophecy from the Old Testament, specifically from Psalm 118:22. In this verse, the stone that the builders rejected symbolizes Jesus himself, who was rejected by many, including the religious leaders of his time. Despite the rejection, Jesus would become the cornerstone of the Christian faith, central to God's plan for salvation. The imagery of a rejected stone becoming the cornerstone is a powerful reminder that God's ways are often surprising and go against human expectations. Just as Jesus overcame rejection and death to become the foundation of the Christian faith, believers are called to trust in God's plans even when they don't understand them at first.

Here, in Luke 20:17, Jesus references a well-known passage from the Old Testament, specifically Psalm 118:22-23. This reference serves to illustrate the rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders of his time, despite his importance as the Messiah. The “stone which the builders rejected” refers to Jesus, while “the head of the corner” signifies his exalted position as the cornerstone of the Christian faith. The rejection and subsequent exaltation of Jesus reflect God’s plan for salvation, showing how even those who are initially rejected by society can be elevated to positions of great importance. Through this verse, Jesus emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in his own life and ministry, reinforcing the divine nature of his mission on earth.