How Firm a Foundation

Look! I am placing a foundation stone in Jerusalem, a firm and tested stone. It is a precious cornerstone that is safe to build on. Whoever believes need never be shaken. (Isaiah 28:16)

Familiar words to many of us, and they speak of Christ. These words are quoted in the New Testament by Paul ( in Romans 9 v 33 ) and by Peter ( in 1 Peter 2 v 6).

It is worth noting that it is Paul and Peter who quote this verse. Both of them had very real need of a firm foundation in their lives and one that was safe to build on.

Paul had built his life on the traditions and teachings of the Pharisees and that foundation crumbled beneath his feet when he met Jesus on the Damascus Road. Thereafter, his life was built on Jesus Christ and though every synagogue and every city turned against him and tried to destroy him, his foundation remained secure and he was never shaken. In fact, as you read one after another of his epistles, it becomes so clear that the cornerstone, Jesus Himself, is not only firm and steadfast but is very precious to Paul. And the security that is in Christ has taken root in Paul - it is clear and it is tangible.

And what of Peter? How he needed a secure foundation! He, like Paul, thought he was so strong and so able to stand against every onslaught that came against him. And yet, how wrong he was. He crumbled in a dark hour, and became so aware that when his confidence was in his own strength - and he had more strength than many people - he was building on something that was very shaky. But Peter came from that dark and broken place on to very solid ground in Jesus Christ. And he found a place where he never needed to be shaken again.

With the testimony of these two lives, surely we can be encouraged for our own lives.

If the foundation held firm for the fierce onslaught that came against Paul and Peter, surely it will hold firm for you and for me!

Jennifer Jack