Finding Christ in the Old Testament
Isaiah 8:14 – "And he will become a sanctuary and a stone of offense and a rock of stumbling to both houses of Israel, a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem."
Isaiah prophesies that the Lord Himself will serve as both a sanctuary and a stumbling stone. For those who trust in Him, He is a refuge and place of safety; for those who reject Him, He becomes an obstacle over which they fall. This dual role finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is both Savior and Judge. To those who believe, He is the cornerstone of salvation (Ephesians 2:20–22), a sure foundation for faith. Yet to those who reject Him, He is the stone over which they stumble. The New Testament makes this connection explicit—Peter, in 1 Peter 2:6–8, cites this passage, showing how Christ is both the precious cornerstone and the cause of stumbling for the disobedient. Paul similarly refers to this truth in Romans 9:32–33, noting that Israel stumbled because they pursued righteousness by works rather than by faith in Christ. The Gospel of Luke records Simeon’s prophecy (Luke 2:34), that Jesus is appointed for the falling and rising of many in Israel—a direct echo of Isaiah’s words. In Christ, God provides sanctuary for the humble and believing, yet His very presence becomes a cause of offense to the proud and self-reliant. The same Rock that shelters believers brings judgment to those who harden their hearts.
Meditation: Sanctuary or Stumbling Stone?
Every person encounters Christ. For some, He is a refuge—steadfast, unshakable, the Rock on whom they rest. For others, He is offensive, disrupting their pride and self-sufficiency. Isaiah reminds us that God’s presence demands a response. Will we trust Him and find sanctuary, or resist Him and stumble? The cross reveals this divide: it is foolishness to the world, yet to those being saved, it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:23–24). Christ offers Himself as the cornerstone of our lives, providing security and peace for all who come to Him in faith. But when we rely on our own efforts or reject His authority, we trip over the very foundation meant to save us. Today, consider how you approach Christ. Is He your sanctuary—your safe place in trouble—or have you resisted His rule, finding His call to repentance and grace offensive? The good news is that the Rock that causes many to stumble is the same Rock that welcomes all who come to Him in humble trust. Find your refuge in Him today.
Copyright ©,
2025, Matthew W. Bowers
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