New Testament
Ephesians 2:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
built on the foundation laid by the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.
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And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
What Ephesians 2:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn that our lives are built on a strong foundation established by the apostles and prophets. They shared the teachings and truths about God, which guide us today. At the center of this foundation is Jesus Christ, who is described as the chief cornerstone. A cornerstone is crucial because it holds everything together and ensures stability. Without it, a building would be weak and prone to collapse. Similarly, our faith relies on Jesus for strength and direction. He is the one who connects all the teachings and gives them meaning. By understanding this, we can appreciate how our spiritual lives are interconnected with the teachings of those who came before us. This verse encourages us to build our lives on the solid truths of faith, ensuring we remain strong and secure in our beliefs, just like a well-constructed building. It reminds us that our faith is not just personal but part of a larger story that spans generations, rooted in the teachings of those who followed Christ.
How to apply Ephesians 2:20 to your life
To apply this verse, reflect on the teachings of Jesus and the apostles in your daily life. Consider how their messages can guide your decisions and actions. Build your faith on these solid truths, ensuring you remain grounded and resilient in challenging times. Seek to connect with others who share this foundation for support and encouragement. Embrace the strength that comes from being part of a larger community of believers.
Curated for this public verse page. Ephesians Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Ephesians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Ephesus
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ephesians 2:20 mean?
Ephesians 2:20 means that our faith is built on the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus as the central figure who holds everything together. This verse emphasizes the importance of a strong spiritual foundation.
What is the meaning of cornerstone in Ephesians 2:20?
In Ephesians 2:20, the term 'cornerstone' refers to Jesus Christ, who is essential for the stability and integrity of our faith. Just as a cornerstone supports a building, Jesus provides the strength and direction for our spiritual lives.
How can I apply Ephesians 2:20 in my life?
To apply Ephesians 2:20, focus on the teachings of Jesus and the apostles in your daily decisions. Build your faith on these principles and connect with others who share this foundation for mutual support.
Why is Jesus called the chief cornerstone in Ephesians 2:20?
Jesus is called the chief cornerstone in Ephesians 2:20 because He is the most important part of our faith, providing the necessary support and meaning to the teachings of the apostles and prophets.
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