The Cornerstone Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
The Cornerstone: A Song of Hope and Redemption
Introduction:
The song "The Cornerstone" by Larnelle Harris is a powerful anthem that proclaims the significance of Jesus Christ as the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Through its heartfelt lyrics and moving melody, the song reminds believers of the foundational role that Jesus plays in their lives.
Key Messages of the Song:
The song "The Cornerstone" carries several key messages that are beautifully depicted through its lyrics. Let us examine these messages in chronological order as they unfold throughout the song.
1. Jesus came to atone for sinners:
The opening lines of the song declare that Jesus is the cornerstone who came to atone for sinners. This message highlights the central theme of the Christian faith – the redemptive work of Jesus on the cross. The Bible teaches that all humanity is sinful and in need of a Savior (Romans 3:23), and Jesus came to fulfill that role by taking upon Himself the sins of the world (John 1:29). Through His sacrificial death, Jesus offers forgiveness and salvation to all who believe in Him (Ephesians 1:7).
2. Jesus was rejected by His own:
The second message of the song acknowledges the rejection that Jesus faced from His own people. This refers to Jesus being rejected by the religious leaders and the majority of the Jewish people during His earthly ministry. The Gospel of John states, "He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him" (John 1:11). Despite this rejection, Jesus remained steadfast in His mission and purpose, demonstrating His unfailing love and commitment to humanity.
3. Jesus remains the cornerstone:
The song emphasizes the unchanging nature of Jesus as the cornerstone. It declares that Jesus remains the cornerstone even when sin oppresses individuals. This message demonstrates the unshakable foundation that Jesus provides for believers. In Matthew 7:24-25, Jesus compares those who hear His words and put them into practice to a wise man who built his house on solid rock. Just as a well-built house can withstand storms and floods, so too can believers find security and rest in Jesus, the cornerstone of their faith.
4. Jesus is the rock of ages:
The lyrics of the song draw from the hymn "Rock of Ages" and proclaim Jesus as the rock of ages. This message highlights the eternal nature of Jesus and the security that believers find in Him. The hymn itself is based on the imagery of the rock that Moses struck in the wilderness, from which water miraculously flowed to quench the thirst of the Israelites (Exodus 17:1-7). Jesus is the ultimate source of living water, offering spiritual refreshment and sustenance to all who come to Him (John 4:14).
Meaning and Inspiration:
"The Cornerstone" carries a profound meaning that resonates with believers. It serves as a reminder of the central role that Jesus plays in their lives and faith. The lyrics reflect the biblical truth that Jesus is the foundation upon which everything else is built. Without Him, our faith would crumble, and our lives would lack purpose and meaning.
The inspiration behind the song likely stems from the biblical concept of Jesus as the cornerstone. In the New Testament, the apostle Peter refers to Jesus as the "living stone" and the "cornerstone" in 1 Peter 2:4-8. Peter explains that Jesus, although rejected by men, is chosen and precious in the sight of God. He encourages believers to come to Jesus, the living stone, and build their lives upon Him.
Critically Analyzing the Song's Biblical Relevance:
When analyzing the biblical relevance of a song, it is crucial to examine the lyrics in light of the Scriptures. Let us evaluate the message of "The Cornerstone" and its alignment with the Bible.
The song's main message of Jesus as the cornerstone aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Bible. In Ephesians 2:19-20, the apostle Paul writes, "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone." The Bible consistently presents Jesus as the foundation upon which the church is built, and believers are called to build their lives upon Him.
Furthermore, the song's emphasis on Jesus as the atoning sacrifice for sinners is also biblically sound. The apostle Paul writes in Romans 5:8, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus' death on the cross was the ultimate act of love and sacrifice, providing forgiveness and salvation to all who put their faith in Him.
Conclusion:
"The Cornerstone" by Larnelle Harris is a powerful song that encapsulates the key messages of Jesus as the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Its lyrics beautifully convey the significance of Jesus' redemptive work, His unchanging nature, and the security and rest that believers find in Him. The song's meaning and inspiration align with the biblical teachings of Jesus as the cornerstone and the foundation upon which our faith is built. Through its heartfelt message and poignant melody, "The Cornerstone" serves as a reminder of the hope and redemption found in Jesus Christ.
![The Cornerstone Lyrics - Larnelle Harris]()
