What does 1 Peter 2:8 mean?

And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 1 Peter 2:8

Explanation

1 Peter 2:8 refers to the concept that Jesus is a “stone of stumbling” and a “rock of offence” to those who do not obey the Gospel message. These metaphors are rooted in Old Testament scriptures and are used to illustrate the idea that certain individuals will find in Jesus a reason for unbelief rather than faith. The verse suggests that there are people who will not accept or adhere to the teachings found in the Word of God, choosing instead to reject Christ and thus stumble, which leads to spiritual downfall. The phrase “whereunto also they were appointed” indicates that this rejection is not surprising, as it fulfills what is seen as a divinely ordained outcome.

Historical Context

At the time of the writing of 1 Peter, Christians were facing persecution and social ostracism throughout the Roman Empire. The early Christian movement was often misunderstood or maligned by both Jewish authorities and Roman officials. Speaking to a predominantly Gentile audience, Peter uses language that would resonate with those familiar with the Hebrew scriptures. The cultural and religious backdrop included tensions between Jewish traditions and emerging Christian interpretations of Messianic prophecies.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse touches on the theme of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. One interpretation is the suggestion of predestination—that some individuals are preordained to accept or reject the message of Christ. Another viewpoint might argue for a more Arminian understanding, emphasizing free will and personal choice in the matter of spiritual belief and obedience.

Practical Applications

In the practical sense, 1 Peter 2:8 can be viewed as a reminder for Christians to be prepared for rejection and misunderstanding. It suggests that believers should not be discouraged when they encounter opposition or disbelief, as this is a part of the Christian experience foretold in scripture. This passage calls believers to live faithfully despite external acceptance and to witness with patience and compassion, knowing that not all will accept the message.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 8:14 – “And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.”
• Romans 9:33 – “As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”
• Luke 2:34 – “And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;”

Language Study

In the original Greek, the term used for “stone of stumbling” is “λίθος προσκόμματος” (lithos proskommatos), where “λίθος” (lithos) means “stone” and “προσκόμματος” (proskommatos) implies “causing to stumble” or a “stumbling block”. The term “rock of offence” uses the word “πέτρα” (petra) meaning “rock” and “σκανδαλον” (skandalon) which can indicate a “snare” or “trap”. These terms metaphorically describe something that causes a person to trip or fall.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions, stumbling blocks can also indicate false gods or idols that lead adherents away from the truth. For example, in the polytheistic societies surrounding the early Christians, adherence to a pantheon of gods could be seen as a stumbling block to recognizing the one true God of Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

While 1 Peter 2:8 is theologically oriented and metaphorical in nature, the concept of stumbling can be associated with the psychological phenomenon of cognitive dissonance. This is when a person faces difficulty in integrating new information that conflicts with existing beliefs, which in some contexts could parallel the “stumbling” at the Word referred to in the verse.

commentaries

Commentary from Matthew Henry suggests that the language of the stone and rock in this passage aligns with the idea that Christ is the foundation of the church, but also becomes a stumbling stone for those who refuse to believe. He notes the dual nature of Christ as both a sanctuary for believers and a stone of offence for unbelievers. The Expositor’s Greek Testament speaks of God’s agency in appointing the role and destiny of the stone, hinting at predestination but also highlighting unbelief as a reason for stumbling. John MacArthur explains this stumbling as a result of disobedience and disbelief, and not a mere accident. These perspectives illustrate the notion that the passage serves to recognize divine sovereignty while also pointing to human accountability in the face of spiritual truth.