“…on this rock I will build my church.” (Matt. 16:18)
The profound words of Matthew 16:18 – “…on this rock I will build my church.” The gates of Hades will not overcome it. These words resound with deep significance. We ponder the state of the church today. We also contemplate the plans of Christ for His Ekklesia. Today, many think of the word “church” as conjuring images of buildings. They also think of routines and programs. It is crucial to return to the original blueprint laid out by Jesus. We need to rediscover the true essence of His calling for His people.
Christ’s vision for His Church, or Ekklesia, transcends the walls of a physical structure. It is about people, a living and breathing body of believers, joined together as a dwelling place for God’s Spirit. The passage from Ephesians 2:19-22 reminds us that we are no longer strangers. We are citizens of God’s household. This household is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Himself as the cornerstone. Together, we are being fitted into a holy temple, a spiritual edifice that reflects God’s glory and purpose.
What strikes me most is the stark contrast between today’s common church practices and the dynamic, Spirit-led community Christ envisioned. Modern churches often follow a pattern of structured services, announcements, and sermons. In contrast, the biblical concept of Ekklesia paints a picture of active participation. It emphasizes spiritual growth and unity. It is a body where every member functions, contributes, and matures, growing into the likeness of Christ.
The importance of godly leadership and the five-fold ministry can’t be understated in this process. Ephesians 4:12-13 explains that the ascension gifts were given. These include apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Their purpose is to equip the saints for ministry. They serve to build up the body of Christ. These gifts lead us to unity and maturity. These roles are not hierarchical positions of power but gifts to nurture, instruct, and guide believers into their God-given destinies.
I am reminded of a personal word from the Lord several years ago. I heard in my spirit, “I want all of the gifts working in the church!” This call was a directive to embrace the fullness of the Spirit. It was also a directive to embrace the diversity of gifts He has granted. Every part of the body has a role to play. Ephesians 4:14-16 teaches that when each joint supplies its part, the whole body grows in love. This mutual dependence, rooted in truth and love, reflects the divine design for the church.
The church’s mission is not merely internal; it is outward-facing and Kingdom-focused. As believers mature and embrace their gifts, they become equipped to demonstrate the gospel of the Kingdom to the world. This is the heart of reformation. It is a restoration of the Church to its intended purpose as a vibrant, Spirit-filled community. This community influences the world around it.
In such a culture, no soul is too lost or broken to be touched by the love of Christ. The life-changing power of salvation, encapsulated in the declaration “Jesus saves!”, is the hope that we carry into a world in desperate need of divine grace. The darkness of societal decay can’t overcome the light of Christ’s love. This light shines brightly through a unified and mature Ekklesia.
In conclusion, reclaiming authentic Christianity begins with understanding and embracing Christ’s original intent for His Church. It requires a shift from routines to relationships, from structures to Spirit, and from isolation to interconnectedness. As we prepare for the coming move of the Holy Spirit, let us aim to grow in maturity. Let us also strive for truth and love as we expect the reformation of the Church. We should become the vibrant body of believers Christ envisioned when He declared, “I will build my church.”
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 