Stumbling and Rejoicing

Paul was an apostle called of God but he would frequently quote from the Old Testament. Paul used two selections from Isaiah in our text to point out a dramatic difference between believers and unbelievers. Christ is a stumbling stone to every unbeliever no matter their religion or philosophy; but he is also the basis of joy and the confidence of every true believer. The severance between these two groups of people is traumatic and will be finally resolved at God's judgment seat.