Message from Scripture: 02/26/2021

Our message from Scripture today comes from Matt. 16:18. “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.”

When we think of this passage of Scripture, we typical focus on the difference between Peter and the rock. Peter comes from the Greek word Πέτρος, meaning a small stone or pebble. Rock comes from the Greek word πέτρα, bedrock, a large foundation stone. This is to emphasize that the church is not established on Peter, but the truth he spoke, that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God (16:16).

There is another truth we should emphasize as well, one that should comfort and encourage us. The church Jesus established is of such a nature that the gates of Hades cannot overpower it. When Jesus died on the cross, Satan may have thought he won, but in reality it was through Christ’s death, and resurrection, that the church is built and continues. It also speaks to us of our being added to the church (Acts 2:47), of being part of the kingdom (Col. 1:13). The term Hades corresponds to the Hebrew term Sheol, and refers to death, to the abode of the dead. We continue to be part of God’s eternal kingdom even beyond death itself.

What comfort it offers us to know that the greatest benefit of being added to the church is what it offers us in eternity. Peter reminds us, “For in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you” (2 Pet. 1:11). When we pass from this life, we have what is truly life, and the saved will always be comforted in the presence of God forever. What reassurance Paul’s words offer us, as he was approaching this very event, and reminded us, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen” (2 Tim. 4:18). May we live each day knowing, even in death, God has His best waiting for us. Have a great day. God bless.

Robert