This prophecy in Isaiah 28:16 ultimately encourages believers to stand firmly on the tested cornerstone that God has provided.
Isaiah 28:16 proclaims, “Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, A costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed. He who believes in it will not be disturbed.’” (v.16) By opening with “Behold,” the Lord draws our attention to a profound promise: a foundation stone will be set in Zion, which is the name of the ancient stronghold in Jerusalem, located on the southeastern hill of the city. This place is historically important because it became the focal point of the Israelite kingdom after King David (c. 1010-970 BC) established Jerusalem as his capital centuries earlier. In Isaiah’s time (8th century BC), this prophecy would have given the people hope that God was establishing something permanent and reliable in the midst of uncertainty.
When the verse describes “a costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed” (v.16), it signifies the ultimate stability and trustworthiness of God’s plan. The phrase “tested stone” indicates that whatever God builds cannot be shaken or undone. In the Bible, the concept of a cornerstone is frequently connected to the Messiah, later revealed to be Jesus in the New Testament (Ephesians 2:20). Just as a cornerstone ensures the entire building remains secure, Jesus is presented as the essential cornerstone who brings unity, salvation, and provides a sure spiritual foundation (1 Peter 2:6). This message of stability was vital for Isaiah’s audience, who faced political upheaval from powerful empires like Assyria, and remains vital for believers today.
Finally, the phrase “He who believes in it will not be disturbed” (v.16) extends the assurance that faith in God’s cornerstone removes fear and confusion. In a culture wrestling with the turmoil of external threats and spiritual complacency, these words served as a beacon of confidence that trust in God’s work would prevail. Looking forward, the early church fathers recognized this verse as fulfilled in Christ (Romans 9:33), demonstrating how God’s promise of a stable foundation reached its pinnacle in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son.
Set to dark mode
Isaiah 28:16 meaning
Isaiah 28:16 proclaims, “Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, A costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed. He who believes in it will not be disturbed.’” (v.16) By opening with “Behold,” the Lord draws our attention to a profound promise: a foundation stone will be set in Zion, which is the name of the ancient stronghold in Jerusalem, located on the southeastern hill of the city. This place is historically important because it became the focal point of the Israelite kingdom after King David (c. 1010-970 BC) established Jerusalem as his capital centuries earlier. In Isaiah’s time (8th century BC), this prophecy would have given the people hope that God was establishing something permanent and reliable in the midst of uncertainty.
When the verse describes “a costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed” (v.16), it signifies the ultimate stability and trustworthiness of God’s plan. The phrase “tested stone” indicates that whatever God builds cannot be shaken or undone. In the Bible, the concept of a cornerstone is frequently connected to the Messiah, later revealed to be Jesus in the New Testament (Ephesians 2:20). Just as a cornerstone ensures the entire building remains secure, Jesus is presented as the essential cornerstone who brings unity, salvation, and provides a sure spiritual foundation (1 Peter 2:6). This message of stability was vital for Isaiah’s audience, who faced political upheaval from powerful empires like Assyria, and remains vital for believers today.
Finally, the phrase “He who believes in it will not be disturbed” (v.16) extends the assurance that faith in God’s cornerstone removes fear and confusion. In a culture wrestling with the turmoil of external threats and spiritual complacency, these words served as a beacon of confidence that trust in God’s work would prevail. Looking forward, the early church fathers recognized this verse as fulfilled in Christ (Romans 9:33), demonstrating how God’s promise of a stable foundation reached its pinnacle in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son.