In a 2012 interview about the hymn and Hillsong’s new album, Hannah Goodwyn, one of the writers explained the story behind Cornerstone.
This modern take on an already most powerful hymn found its current inspiration from the 2011 shooting massacre in Norway. C ornerstone is also very singable for congregations. Hillsong’s added refrain complements the original lyrics and further gives praise to Jesus. The lyrics are solid and focus on Christ, his person, his work, his righteousness, his love, and his return. Hillsong does a good job in reworking the original hymn tune without losing its overall integrity. This song is a remake of the hymn My Hope is Built On Nothing Less written by Edward Mote in 1837. Today’s Sing a New Song is Cornerstone by Hillsong United which came out in 2012.