Reasserting Our Claim

Matthew 16:18–19 CEB

18 I tell you that you are Peter. And I’ll build my church on this rock. The gates of the underworld won’t be able to stand against it. 19 I’ll give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Anything you fasten on earth will be fastened in heaven. Anything you loosen on earth will be loosened in heaven.”

Reasserting Our Claim

Several months ago I was listening to Southern Gospel on the radio in the car and this new song by Ernie Haas & Signature Sound came on. They had just released this song earlier this spring. As I listened to it, I thought I hope I get to hear that one again. I heard it several times that week and it really spoke to me, particularly the chorus. The words of the chorus are

We are the Church, let’s reassert our claim To the power that is ours When we rise in Jesus’ name To carry love and mercy and salvation’s plan We are the Church, and it’s time for us to stand

As I listened to it more I thought that yes, we are the Church with a big C. I thought how so many times that I’ve felt that we forget that. The thought that we forget that we belong to Jesus, the head of the Church. We whine and complain about what is happening in the world around us and don’t give a second thought that we are a part of something way greater than any political party.

I think it is important that we remember the foundation that our lives are to be built upon. I think we are all familiar with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It was started in 1173 and it took about 200 years for them to finish it.

An interesting fact about is that it began to lean when they first began to build it. The reason for that initial lean was that they did not build a good foundation to build on. The ground that they built on was unstable and unable to support the weight of it.

Just as this architectural marvel illustrates, the strength and stability of a building depends entirely on its foundation. This principle is not just true for physical structures; it’s a profound truth for our spiritual lives and the Church as well.

In Matthew 16:18, Jesus powerfully tells Peter, 'And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.' Here, Jesus isn't just referring to Peter himself but to the foundational truth of Peter's confession—that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. This confession, made by Peter, is the bedrock of the Church's faith and the basis of its existence.

Just as a building requires a solid foundation to stand firm, the Church must be built on the unshakable foundation of Jesus Christ. Unlike the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which faltered due to its weak base, the Church is designed to stand strong through the ages because it is anchored in Christ. This enduring strength of the Church, anchored in Jesus, provides a sense of security and reassurance to all believers. Jesus is the cornerstone, the essential and primary stone upon which the entire structure depends.

The Foundation of the Church is Christ

Jesus said to Peter in verse 18

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it

What was Jesus referring to?

Matthew 16:16-17 - "Simon Peter answered, 'You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.' Jesus replied, 'Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.'"

In Matthew 16:16-17, we find a profound moment where Peter acknowledges Jesus' true identity. He declares, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." This confession is pivotal because it encapsulates the foundational truth upon which the entire Christian faith is built. Jesus responds to Peter by affirming that this revelation did not come from human understanding but was divinely revealed by God the Father.

Warren Weirsbe in his commentary on this passage wrote:

The Bible Exposition Commentary Chapter Thirteen: The King’s Surprise (Matthew 16)

One thing is clear: We can never make a true decision about Jesus Christ by taking a poll of the people. (But some people do get their “spiritual knowledge” this way!) The important thing is not what others say, but what do you and I personally say? The decisions of the crowd (wrong or right) can never substitute for personal decisions.

Jesus emphasizes that Peter’s insight is a result of divine revelation. This underscores the importance of spiritual insight over human reasoning. It wasn’t Peter’s own wisdom that led him to this truth but the revelation from God.

When Jesus says, "on this rock I will build my church," He is referring to the solid rock of Peter’s confession - that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. This truth is the bedrock of the Church. While Peter plays a significant role, it is the truth he declared that forms the foundation.

Think of a cornerstone in a building. The cornerstone is crucial because it sets the foundation and alignment for the entire structure. Similarly, the truth of Jesus as the Messiah is the cornerstone for the Church. Without this cornerstone, the structure cannot stand.

Let me ask you this:

Are you building your lives on the teachings and person of Jesus?

Are you anchored in His truth during times of trouble?

We've seen how crucial it is to have a solid foundation. Just as a building relies on its foundation to stand firm, the Church is not just built, but firmly established on the unshakable truth that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. This truth, our cornerstone, provides us with enduring stability and strength.

A strong foundation is just the beginning. A solid foundation supports the structure, but what truly makes the building functional and effective? For the Church, it's the authority and power that Christ has entrusted to us. This is a significant aspect of our identity in Christ: the keys of the kingdom and the authority given to the Church.

Let's now delve into the concept of the Authority Given to the Church.

In Matthew 16:19, Jesus continues His declaration by saying,

Matthew 16:19 CEB

19 I’ll give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Anything you fasten on earth will be fastened in heaven. Anything you loosen on earth will be loosened in heaven.”

The Keys of the Kingdom and the Authority Given to the Church

In biblical times, keys were a symbol of authority and control. The person who held the keys had the power to open and close doors, granting or denying access. This metaphor applies to the spiritual realm as well.

Imagine the keys to a city gate. The gatekeeper controls who enters and exits the city, maintaining order and security. Similarly, Jesus has given the Church the spiritual keys to the kingdom of heaven, signifying that we have the authority to grant access to God’s blessings, guidance, and presence.

By giving the keys of the kingdom to the Church, Jesus is entrusting us with the authority to carry out God’s will on earth. This authority is not limited to church leaders but extends to all believers who are part of the body of Christ.

Consider a manager who gives keys to their trusted employees. These employees are empowered to open the store, access resources, and make decisions that affect the business. In the same way, Jesus empowers us to access spiritual resources, open doors of opportunity, and make decisions that impact the spiritual realm.

Let’s consider the practical use of keys in our daily lives. Think about the keys you carry with you every day—keys to your home, your car, your office. These keys give you access and control over these spaces. Without them, you’re locked out, unable to enter or secure what’s important to you. Similarly, the spiritual keys Jesus gives us allow us to access the power of the kingdom of heaven and to exercise authority in spiritual matters.

So, how are we using these keys?

Are we aware of the authority we have been given?

Are we living in a way that reflects this authority?

Binding and loosing are terms used to describe the authority to make decisions that align with God’s purposes and to see them enforced. To bind is to restrict or prohibit something, while to loose is to permit or release something.

Jesus entrusted us with the power to bind and loose, to make decisions in alignment with God’s will, and to see them come to pass. This authority isn’t just for church leaders; it’s for every believer.

Think of a judge in a courtroom who has the authority to make binding decisions. When a judge issues a verdict, it is legally enforced. Similarly, when we bind or loose in accordance with God’s will, these decisions are spiritually enforced in both heaven and earth.

This divine authority empowers us to bind and loose, making decisions that align with God's purposes and ensuring they are enforced in the spiritual realm. This remarkable responsibility means that our actions and decisions on earth profoundly impact the spiritual world, highlighting the importance of our alignment with God's will.

However, more than possessing this authority is required. We must actively use it in our daily lives. It's one thing to have the keys; it's another to know how to use them effectively. This brings us to our next crucial aspect: renewing our authority and putting it into action in our everyday lives.

In Matthew 16:19, Jesus gives us the keys and the authority to bind and loose. Still, He also calls us to actively participate in His mission. It's about more than holding authority—it's about living out that authority in practical, transformative ways. Our authority in Christ is not a static gift; it requires continual renewal and active application. Let's delve into how we can renew and exercise our spiritual authority daily to reflect God's kingdom on earth.

First, we must deeply understand the nature of the authority given to us. It is rooted in our relationship with Jesus and our alignment with His teachings. This understanding is crucial for us to wield our authority responsibly and effectively.

Renewing our authority begins with daily communion with God through prayer and immersion in His Word. Prayer keeps us connected to God's heart and purposes. At the same time, Scripture provides the guidance and wisdom needed to exercise our authority correctly.

Exercising our authority involves making godly decisions, standing firm in faith during challenges, and proclaiming the truths of the gospel. It means being bold in our witness and compassionate in our actions, reflecting Christ's love and justice in every situation.

By actively using our spiritual authority, we can bring about tangible change in our communities. Whether through acts of kindness, standing up for justice, or sharing the gospel, our actions can reflect God's kingdom on earth, bringing hope and transformation.

Let's explore these aspects further and see how renewing and exercising our spiritual authority can significantly impact our daily lives and the world around us.

Renewing Our Authority in Our Daily Lives

In today's world, the Church faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Social changes, political upheaval, and a noticeable decline in church attendance and influence have created a complex landscape for believers. Rapid technological advancements, shifts in cultural norms, and the rise of secularism have contributed to a growing disconnect between the Church and the broader society.

As a result, many churches struggle to remain relevant and impactful in their communities. This context underscores the urgent need for the Church to renew its authority and mission given by Christ, ensuring that it continues to be a beacon of hope and truth in a changing world, inspiring believers to navigate these challenges with faith and determination.

One significant social change impacting the Church is the moral and ethical values shift. Issues such as marriage, sexuality, and the sanctity of life have become battlegrounds where the Church's traditional teachings often clash with contemporary societal norms. This has led to polarization within congregations and between the Church and the wider community.

Additionally, the rise of individualism and relativism has fostered a culture where absolute truths are questioned, and personal preferences often take precedence over communal and spiritual values. In this climate, the Church must reassert its biblical authority, offering a countercultural message rooted in the timeless truth of God's Word.

The political landscape has also become increasingly turbulent, with global instability, divisive rhetoric, and a growing distrust of institutions. These dynamics have infiltrated the Church, leading to fragmentation and discord among believers who hold differing political views.

The Church's challenge is navigating these political waters without compromising its mission and unity. By renewing our focus on Christ's teachings and the mission He has entrusted to us, we can rise above political divisions and demonstrate the love, peace, and justice that characterize the kingdom of God. This requires a commitment to fostering environments where dialogue, respect, and understanding are prioritized and where the gospel message remains central.

Furthermore, the decline in church attendance and influence is a pressing concern. Many congregations have seen a significant drop in participation, particularly among younger generations. Factors such as perceived irrelevance, scandals, and a failure to address contemporary issues have contributed to this decline.

To counteract this trend, the Church must renew its authority and mission by actively engaging with the needs and concerns of the community. This involves not only proclaiming the gospel but also embodying its principles through acts of service, social justice initiatives, and authentic relationships. By doing so, the Church can rebuild trust, demonstrate its relevance, and reestablish its role as a vital and transformative presence in society.

Reasserting our spiritual authority requires intentional actions that reflect our faith and commitment to God's purposes.

Daily Prayer and Devotion

Prayer and devotion are fundamental to maintaining a strong relationship with God. Through prayer, we seek God's guidance, wisdom, and strength to face the challenges of life. Devotion involves reading and meditating on Scripture, allowing God's Word to shape our thoughts and actions.

Dedicate a specific time each day for prayer and Bible study. This could be in the morning to start your day with God, during lunch breaks, or before bedtime.

Serving Others as Jesus Did

Jesus modeled a life of service and compassion, caring for the marginalized and advocating for justice. As His followers, we are called to do the same, using our spiritual authority to bring positive change in our communities.

Proclaiming the Gospel and Living Out Your Beliefs

As Christians, we are called to be witnesses of Christ’s love and truth. This means boldly sharing our faith with others and standing up for biblical principles, even when it’s challenging.

Reasserting our spiritual authority involves a proactive approach to living out our faith daily. Through consistent prayer and devotion, engaging in community service and social justice, and boldly sharing our faith, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and demonstrate His love and power to the world. Let us commit to these practical steps, trusting that as we do so, we will see God’s kingdom advance in and through our lives.

Let me share a story that perfectly illustrates the impact of reasserting our spiritual authority through small, consistent actions.

The Starfish Story

One day, a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy gently picking up starfish and throwing them into the ocean. Curious, he approached the boy and asked, 'Why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?'

The boy replied, 'The sun is up, and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them back, they'll die.'

The man looked around, noticing that the beach was littered with starfish as far as the eye could see. 'But there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish,' he said. 'You can't possibly make a difference.'

The boy listened politely, bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it into the surf. He smiled at the man and said, 'I made a difference for that one.'"

In the same way, we might feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges around us. Social changes, political upheaval, and the decline of the Church can seem insurmountable. But just like the boy with the starfish, our small, consistent actions can make a profound difference. Every prayer we utter, every act of service we perform, and every time we boldly share our faith, we reassert our spiritual authority and advance God's kingdom one step at a time.

I challenge you today to commit to these practical steps. Start with daily prayer and devotion, engage in community service and social justice, and boldly share your faith. Remember, even small actions can have a significant impact when we do them with faith and love. Together, as we each make a difference in our own small ways, we can bring about the transformation that our world so desperately needs.

Let's bow our heads and pray for the strength and courage to take these steps, trusting that God will use our efforts to bring His light into the darkness."

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the authority and mission You have entrusted to us. Help us to renew our commitment to prayer, service, and sharing our faith. Empower us to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem. Use our efforts to advance Your kingdom and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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