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G204 · Greek · New Testament
ἀκρογωνιαῖος
akrogōniaios
Adjective
cornerstone, chief cornerstone

Definition

Akrogōniaios (G204) means the cornerstone at the extremity — the foundational stone placed at the corner of a building that determines the alignment of all walls. In the NT it is applied to Christ as the chief cornerstone of the church, citing Psalm 118:22 and Isaiah 28:16. The stone rejected by the builders becomes the most important stone.

Usage & Theological Significance

The akrogōniaios is the architectural key to the whole building. In Christ, Jews and Gentiles are joined into one building (Ephesians 2:20–22) — the two walls of humanity are aligned and united in him. Peter's use (1 Peter 2:6) presents Christ as both chosen and precious. Those who believe are not put to shame; those who reject him find the cornerstone becomes a stone of stumbling.

Key Bible Verses

Ephesians 2:20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone [akrogōniaiou].
1 Peter 2:6 For it stands in Scripture: 'Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a chosen and precious cornerstone [akrogōniaion], and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.'
Psalm 118:22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Isaiah 28:16 therefore thus says the Lord GOD, 'Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation.'
Matthew 21:42 Jesus said to them, 'Have you never read in the Scriptures: The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone?'

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External Resources

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