1 - Christ the Rock

A big rock - Image by iStock

What Is the Foundation of the Christian Life?

Paul gives us the clear answer:

“For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11)

No complicated theories here. Jesus is the solid Rock beneath everything we stand on as believers.

Peter and the Scriptures Confirm

Peter points us back to Old Testament prophecy:

“Behold, I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, elect, precious.” (1 Peter 2:6)

He’s quoting Isaiah on the foundation stone God sets in place (Isaiah 28:16).

Both Testaments agree: Jesus is the true foundation—not creeds, denominations, or rituals.

Jesus’ Words to Peter: Rock or Pebble?

In Matthew 16, Jesus asks:

“Who do people say I am?”

When Peter replies,

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,”

Jesus says,

“Blessed are you… and on this rock I will build my church.” (Matthew 16:13-18)

Some think Jesus meant Peter himself is the rock. But the Greek words tell a different story:

• “Peter” (Petros) means a small stone, a pebble

• “Rock” (Petra) means a large, solid rock

Jesus is contrasting Peter the pebble with the great Rock—Himself.

Peter’s Human Frailty

Peter wasn’t a rock in the human sense. He was loving but flawed. Jesus called him out for misunderstanding God’s plan (Matthew 16:22-23).

Peter even denied Jesus three times before the resurrection. Paul speaks about Peter’s struggles with fear and compromise (Galatians 2:11-14).

If Peter were the foundation, the Church would be shaky! Only Jesus Christ is the sure foundation.

Old Testament Roots: God as Our Rock

David, moved by the Spirit, declares:

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.” (Psalm 18:2)

And in Psalm 62:

“He alone is my rock and my salvation… I shall not be shaken.”

Rock and salvation are inseparable—God is our rock and rescue.

The Ultimate Rock: Jesus Christ

Peter confirms:

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Jesus is the Rock of Ages—the eternal, unshakeable foundation. Like David, we stand firm and declare:

“He is my rock and my salvation; my fortress, I will never be shaken.” (Psalm 62:6)

Reflection Questions

• How firmly do you feel your life is built on Jesus as your foundation?
  

• Are there areas where you rely more on your own strength, traditions, or other “foundations” than Christ?
  

• When challenges come, do you turn to Jesus as your Rock, or do you feel shaken?
  

• How can you deepen your trust in Jesus as the cornerstone?
  

• How have you seen God’s faithfulness as a strong refuge during tough times?
  

• What steps can you take to build your daily walk more securely on Jesus?
  

• How can you encourage others to build their foundation on Christ?
  

Prayer

Christ, my Rock and refuge, I come to You today just as I am. When life feels shaky, remind me You are the unshakeable foundation. Help me lean on Your strength and rest in Your love.

Teach me to trust You more with every step, knowing You have my back.Thanks for being my safe place, no matter what. Amen.

Blog