New Testament
1 Peter 2:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the contrasting responses people have towards Jesus.
- Author
- Peter the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-64
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Persecuted Christians in Asia Minor
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,'
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,
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

The Book of 1 Peter
1–2: Living as God's people
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, writes to the believers scattered throughout various regions, identifying them as elect according to God's foreknowledge. He blesses God for giving them a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an incorruptible inheritance reserved in heaven. Though they face various trials, their faith is being tested and proven genuine, which will result in praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Peter calls them to be holy in all their conduct, just as God who called them is holy, reminding them that they were redeemed not with silver or gold but with the precious blood of Christ. Having been born again through the living and abiding word of God, they are to love one another earnestly from a pure heart.
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