The Church DefinedSample

I Will Build My Church

Matthew 16:18, "And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…" (ESV)

When Peter made the astounding confession: “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God,” Jesus affirmed that this was a divine revelation to him from God the Father. (Matthew 16:16-17). Jesus also declared to His disciples that this confession was indeed the foundation on which the church would be built. When Jesus said, “On this rock,” we know that Peter’s name meant ‘rock’, but we also know that Jesus Christ Himself was the spiritual rock (1 Corinthians 10:4). 

Take note that Jesus asserted that He alone would build the church. In 1 Corinthians Chapter 3:8,9, the Apostle Paul clearly explains this truth, that all those who labor for the Kingdom of God are just “God’s fellow-workers.” As the Lord alone is the builder of the church, from Him alone comes growth and increase. That is why we read, in Acts 2:47, “And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” (NKJV).

We can use all of our human wisdom, effort, prowess, resources, influence and technological advancements to enhance the work of the church. However, Psalm 127:1 reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it, labour in vain.” The word ‘house,’ can be attributed to the House of God as well. It is only when we allow Jesus Christ to build His Church will all our endeavors prove fruitful.