The question of who is the foundation of the church according to the Bible is one that has been the subject of much theological reflection and debate throughout the history of Christianity. To answer this question comprehensively, we must explore the scriptural basis for the foundation of the church, the role of Jesus Christ, and the contributions of the apostles, particularly Peter.
The Bible unequivocally identifies Jesus Christ as the cornerstone and ultimate foundation of the church. Ephesians 2:19-20 states, "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone." Here, Paul emphasizes that while the apostles and prophets play foundational roles, it is Jesus Christ who is the cornerstone, the primary and most crucial element of the foundation.
The metaphor of Jesus as the cornerstone is significant. In ancient construction, the cornerstone was the first stone laid, and it determined the position of the entire structure. This imagery is used to convey that Jesus is essential and central to the church's existence and integrity. Isaiah 28:16 prophesies, "Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, 'Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: 'Whoever believes will not be in haste.'" This Old Testament prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus, underscoring His preeminence in the foundation of the church.
Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 3:11 reinforces this understanding: "For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." Paul’s words here are clear and unequivocal. He insists that Jesus Christ is the one and only foundation upon which the church is built. Any attempt to establish another foundation would be futile and contrary to the divine plan.
In addition to Jesus Christ being the cornerstone, the apostles, particularly Peter, have a foundational role in the early church. This is evident in Matthew 16:18, where Jesus says to Peter, "And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." The interpretation of this verse has been a point of contention, particularly between Roman Catholic and Protestant traditions. The Roman Catholic Church views Peter as the first pope and the rock upon which the church is built, whereas Protestant traditions generally interpret the "rock" as Peter's confession of faith in Jesus as the Messiah, rather than Peter himself.
To understand this passage, it is crucial to consider the broader context of Scripture. In the preceding verses (Matthew 16:15-17), Jesus asks His disciples who they believe He is, and Peter responds, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus commends Peter for this confession, indicating that it was revealed to him by the Father. Therefore, many theologians argue that the "rock" refers to the revelation and confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, rather than Peter as an individual.
Moreover, Peter himself acknowledges Jesus as the cornerstone in his epistle. In 1 Peter 2:4-6, he writes, "As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in Scripture: 'Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.'" Peter's words here affirm that Jesus is the cornerstone, and believers are the living stones built upon Him.
The imagery of the church as a building with Jesus as the cornerstone and believers as living stones is rich in theological significance. It conveys the idea that the church is a living, dynamic entity, not merely an institution or organization. The foundation of the church is not based on human authority or hierarchy but on the person and work of Jesus Christ. This foundation is unshakeable and eternal, providing security and stability for the church throughout the ages.
Additionally, the role of the apostles and prophets as part of the foundation cannot be overlooked. Ephesians 2:20 mentions that the church is "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets." The apostles, including Peter, were eyewitnesses to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. They were entrusted with the message of the gospel and the task of establishing the early church. Their teachings, preserved in the New Testament, continue to be foundational for the church's faith and practice.
The apostolic foundation is further emphasized in Revelation 21:14, where John describes the New Jerusalem: "And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb." This vision underscores the enduring significance of the apostles in the foundation of the church. However, their foundational role is always in relation to and dependent upon Jesus Christ, the cornerstone.
In summary, the foundation of the church according to the Bible is multifaceted. Jesus Christ is the cornerstone, the essential and primary foundation upon which the church is built. The apostles and prophets also play a foundational role, with their teachings and witness serving as the basis for the church's faith and practice. However, their role is always secondary and derivative, pointing to and dependent upon Jesus Christ. The church, as a living and dynamic entity, is built upon the unshakeable foundation of Jesus Christ, providing security and stability for believers throughout the ages. This understanding is rooted in the clear and consistent testimony of Scripture, affirming that Jesus Christ is the one and only foundation of the church.
