“As it is written, ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.’” (Romans 9:33 ESV).
The apostle Paul quoted from Isaiah to show that Christ, the promised “stone” laid by God in Zion, had become both a stumbling block and a saving foundation. Israel, pursuing righteousness by works of the law, stumbled over Him. But the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, attained it by faith. The “stone” is Christ Himself. To those who believe, He is the secure foundation. But to those who reject Him, He becomes a scandal, a cause of falling. Paul used this Scripture to show that Israel’s rejection of Christ was not a failure of God’s Word, but a fulfillment of it.
We often think that religious zeal or moral effort is the pathway to God, but Paul reminds us that righteousness comes only through faith in Christ. Many still stumble over Jesus today, offended by grace, preferring to earn their standing. But the gospel leaves no room for boasting—only belief. Christ is the cornerstone God Himself laid. We must build our lives on Him by faith. As believers, we can rest in the promise that we will not be put to shame. Though the world may reject or ridicule our trust in Christ, God has guaranteed that those who believe will be saved. Let us not stumble in unbelief or self-reliance, but continue to trust in the One who will never fail us.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for laying a stone in Zion, a sure foundation in Christ. We believe in Him and rest in Your promised salvation. Keep us from stumbling through pride or unbelief. Help us to proclaim Christ boldly, even when others are offended by Him. For His is the only name by which we may be saved. Let our lives be built on the solid rock of Your Son. In Jesus’ name, amen.