Whose Church Is It?

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Scripture: Matthew 16:18b (ESV)

…I will build my church…

Devotion:

            If you look this scripture reference up in your Bibles, you will see that I have taken this out of context. Jesus is speaking to Peter, telling him he will build His church. However, I find this portion of Jesus’ gospel exceptionally meaningful. In these five words, Jesus tells us that the church is His alone. Jesus, here, states emphatically that the church is His, and He will permit no rivals. Let us examine these words in some detail to understand Christ’s words to Peter and the church.

            The first word, I, means the church is built by Jesus’ initiative. No one else can claim Jesus's authority over the people called by His name and who follow Him as disciples.

            Next is the word will. It is Christ’s purpose to build the church, and no one other than Jesus can claim the church is built according to their own desires, no matter how noble they may seem. It is Jesus’ sole discretion when, where, and how His church will be built.

            Then we come to the word build. We must understand that the church will grow and prosper as Jesus works in her. It is Jesus’ sole possession, and He will increase or decrease the numbers according to His sovereign will.

            My comes next. Christ alone is the sole possessor of the church. No mere human can claim that they have control over it or direct it according to their human whims or desires. The church Christ’s alone through God’s intention and command.

            Finally, we have the word church. The church is Christ’s bride. He is making her ready at this very moment for the revealing as foretold in the book of Revelation. A bride who will be pure and spotless, joined to Christ forever.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for loving your church and making her your bride. Please help us be faithful and obedient to you. May we follow your will and guidance. Purify us from all sin and stain, and prepare us for your glorious return. We belong to you alone and rejoice in your grace and mercy. Amen.

 

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