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July 24 And Simon Peter answered and said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not overpower it.” Matthew 16:16-18. We are very familiar with this verse, but there are several implications that are worthy of mention. We see that the Father can directly speak to the Christian—revealing truth that does not come directly from the Scriptures. Secondly we see that the church is founded upon a rock. What is the rock? Traditionally among Protestant believers the rock is interpreted as the faith of Peter. Yes, that faith, placed in Christ, is a rock that leads to all other aspects of God that can be revealed to us. Without detracting from faith, it is worth mentioning another aspect of the rock, upon which they stood at the time of this discussion. That rock, physical in form, was stationed in Caesarea Philippi, a place of intense evil where vile and pagan cultures worshipped Baal. Some authors called it the “Gates of Hell.” Jesus also is saying that these gates of hell will not prevail against the church. That says that the church is to be on the offense. Gates are defensive in nature, designed to fight off attackers. Are we to attack the gates of hell? Yes, when we are clothed in the armor of God. I am concerned that we are hiding in our churches and homes when we should be out in the world bringing the good news of the Gospel. There are times when the world will come to our church doors, but perhaps we also need to go more directly to the world outside of our comfort zones. Father, we have been equipped by You for Your good works. Let us speak boldly for You and let us be ready and willing to venture out into a cold and unfriendly world system. It cannot prevail against us because we are in Jesus. We thank You for that precious gift. Let us speak with agape love, which will break down all doors. Amen. |
