*Matthew 21:42-44
Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures:

“‘The stone the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone;
the Lord has done this,
and it is marvelous in our eyes’”“

43 “Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”*

The Pop Quiz Question
When Jesus asked, ‘Have you never read the scripture?’ what do you think he was really asking?

How is it possible to read the scripture but reject the ‘cornerstone’ truth?

The Cornerstone
In this passage, Jesus refers to Himself as the “cornerstone.” What significance does this term hold in the context of His message and mission?

How can we apply the concept of Jesus as the cornerstone in our lives?

Why do you think the religious leaders rejected Jesus, the “stone that the builders rejected”?

In what ways do we sometimes reject or overlook God’s guidance or truths in our lives? How can we avoid this?

The Transfer
Jesus mentions that the kingdom will be taken away from the religious leaders and given to a people who will produce its fruit. What do you think He means by this transfer of the kingdom?

How can we actively participate in producing the “fruit” of the kingdom in our lives and communities?

The Consequences
Jesus speaks of the one who falls on the stone being broken and the one on whom it falls being crushed. What does this imagery convey about the consequences of our response to Jesus’ teachings?

How can we ensure that we respond to Jesus in a way that leads to spiritual growth rather than stumbling?

RESOURCE:
How to Read the Bible for all its Worth