Mark 12:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 12:10
10 And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:
Chapter Context
Mark 12 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, salvation, worship. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-44: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 12:10
10 And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:
Analysis
In the parable of the vineyard tenants, Jesus said: 'Have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner' (Οὐδὲ τὴν γραφὴν ταύτην ἀνέγνωτε, Λίθον ὃν ἀπεδοκίμασαν οἱ οἰκοδομοῦντες, οὗτος ἐγενήθη εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας;). This quotes Psalm 118:22-23, applying it to Himself. The 'builders' are Israel's leaders who rejected Jesus. The 'cornerstone' (kephalēn gōnias, κεφαλὴν γωνίας) is the foundational stone determining building alignment. Jesus, rejected by religious authorities, becomes foundation of God's new temple, the church (Ephesians 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:6-8). This reversal—rejected stone becoming essential—illustrates gospel paradox: what humans despise, God exalts. The crucified Christ becomes salvation's cornerstone.
Historical Context
Psalm 118 was messianic psalm sung at Passover and Feast of Tabernacles. The 'stone' imagery had building/temple associations. Jesus applied it to Himself after the parable condemning Jewish leaders for killing God's son (Mark 12:1-9). Early church extensively used this text (Acts 4:11; Romans 9:32-33; Ephesians 2:20; 1 Peter 2:6-8). Peter, quoting this before the Sanhedrin, identified them as the 'builders' who rejected Jesus (Acts 4:11). The imagery became foundational for ecclesiology—Christ as cornerstone, apostles/prophets as foundation, believers as living stones (1 Peter 2:5). The rejected stone's exaltation demonstrates God's sovereignty reversing human judgments.
Reflection
- How does the rejected stone becoming cornerstone illustrate the gospel pattern of God exalting what humans despise?
- What does Christ as cornerstone teach about His centrality to the church's foundation and identity?
Cross-References
- Word: Matthew 21:42
- Parallel theme: Mark 2:25, Isaiah 28:16, Matthew 19:4, 21:16, Romans 9:33