New Testament

1 Peter 2:7

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

So for those of you who believe, he is precious. But for those who are disobedient, 'the stone the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone,'

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,

What 1 Peter 2:7 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse highlights the contrasting responses people have towards Jesus. For those who believe in Him, He is incredibly valuable and precious, like a rare gem. However, for those who choose to ignore or reject Him, He becomes a stumbling block. The reference to the 'chief cornerstone' signifies that Jesus is foundational to faith. Builders often overlook stones that don’t seem useful, yet they can become essential. This illustrates how people can misjudge what is truly important. Believers find strength and stability in Jesus, while those who reject Him miss out on His significance. The choice to accept or reject Him shapes our lives profoundly, influencing our relationship with God and our understanding of purpose. Ultimately, this verse invites us to reflect on our own beliefs and the value we place on Jesus in our lives. It challenges us to consider whether we see Him as the cornerstone of our faith or as something we can dismiss without consequence. Our response to Him matters greatly.

How to apply 1 Peter 2:7 to your life

Consider how you view Jesus in your life. Do you see Him as essential and precious, or do you overlook His importance? Reflect on your beliefs and how they shape your actions. Embrace the value of faith and let it guide your choices. Your relationship with Him can transform your life significantly.

Curated for this public verse page. 1 Peter Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Jesus on the shore calling James and John as they sit in their boat mending their nets, with older men in the boat behind them

Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

John the Apostle

The low dark stone ruins of Capernaum, with the Sea of Galilee and hills behind.

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Capernaum

Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about 1 Peter 2:7

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying 1 Peter 2:7

At a Glance — the Book of 1 Peter

Author
Peter the apostle
Written
Around AD 62-64
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
Persecuted Christians in Asia Minor

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 1 Peter 2:7 mean?

1 Peter 2:7 contrasts the views of believers and non-believers towards Jesus. For believers, He is precious and foundational, while for those who reject Him, He becomes a stumbling block, illustrating how people can misjudge what is truly important.

What is the meaning of 'chief cornerstone' in 1 Peter 2:7?

The 'chief cornerstone' in 1 Peter 2:7 refers to Jesus as the essential foundation of faith. Just as a cornerstone is crucial for the stability of a building, Jesus is vital for a believer's spiritual life.

How does 1 Peter 2:7 relate to faith?

1 Peter 2:7 emphasizes that faith in Jesus makes Him precious to believers, who find strength and stability in Him. It also warns that rejecting Him leads to missing out on His foundational role in life.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.