What does Psalm 118:23 mean?
A cornerstone provides crucial support for an entire structure. Only the best and sturdiest were chosen for this purpose. In this passage, the psalmist notes that the world had rejected Israel (Psalm 118:10–13). Other nations treated them as if they were without value (Deuteronomy 7:7–8, 18–19; 2 Chronicles 36:17–21). But the Lord had chosen Israel as the cornerstone (Psalm 118:22) of His plan for mankind's salvation (Deuteronomy 7:6; John 4:22; Romans 9:5). Israel is rightly amazed at what God is doing.The New Testament applies this theme to explain the ministry of Jesus Christ (Matthew 21:42; Mark 12:10–11; Luke 20:17; 1 Peter 2:4–7). What the world and Israel's religious leaders discarded was used by God (Isaiah 28:16) to provide redemption (1 Corinthians 1:27; Ephesians 2:19–22). Ultimately, those who reject Jesus cannot harm Him; they will only ruin themselves (Matthew 21:44; Philippians 2:10–11).