Reclaiming Authentic Christianity: I Will Build My Ekklesia (Church)

In times of uncertainty and turmoil, the words of Christ in Matthew 16:18 resonate with profound assurance. “Upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.” These words speak to a divine promise and a call to action. They remind us that the Church is not merely a building or an institution. It is a living, breathing organism of faith, hope, and love—an assembly of the “called-out ones,” the Ekklesia.

The Eternal Perspective: Setting Our Sights on Things Above

As we navigate this earthly life, it is vital to continually lift our eyes beyond the transient to the eternal. Colossians 3:1-2 encourages us to strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. From this heavenly perspective, we find the grace to endure life’s challenges. We also gain the strength to walk in the fullness of our eternal destiny. This eternal view transforms our priorities, aligning them with the heart of God and His kingdom purposes.

The Sure Foundation: Christ as the Chief Cornerstone

At the heart of the Church’s identity is Christ, the Chief Cornerstone. Ephesians 2:20 reminds us that the Church is built on the foundation of the apostles. It is also built on the prophets. Christ Himself is the cornerstone. This cornerstone is not just a metaphor—it is the very bedrock of our faith. It is a “tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation” (Isaiah 28:16). To build our lives upon Him is to stand firm against the storms of life. He is the unshakable foundation. He offers peace and security in a chaotic world.

A Call to Authentic Discipleship

When Jesus declared, “I will build My church,” He was envisioning a gathering of followers wholly devoted to Him. This Church is not defined by Sunday services or denominational boundaries. It is a community of disciples. They daily deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). True discipleship is a call to surrender. We are to lose our lives for Christ’s sake so that we may find them in Him. It is a call to make disciples, extending His love and truth to a world in desperate need.

From Church-Centered to Kingdom-Centered

In this new season, God is shifting His Church from being church-centered to kingdom-centered. The focus is no longer on programs or buildings. Instead, it is on embodying the kingdom of God in every aspect of life. This shift requires us to reevaluate how we “do church” and to embrace a vision that transcends traditions and structures. We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ. We should declare His excellencies. We must bring His light into the darkness.

Unstoppable and Victorious

The promise of Matthew 16:18 is a rallying cry for the Church in the face of adversity. The gates of Hades—the forces of darkness, doubt, deception, and even death—will not prevail against the Church. This victory is not born of human effort but of divine power and authority. Jesus entrusted Peter with the keys of the kingdom. Similarly, we are given the mission to bind and loose. We are to declare and show the reality of heaven on earth.

A People Called Out of Darkness

The Ekklesia is a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9-10). We are called out of darkness into His marvelous light. Our mission is not to retreat but to advance. We are storming the gates of hell with the truth and love of Christ. This identity is not a privilege to hoard. It is a responsibility to live out. We must proclaim His excellencies to a world yearning for hope and redemption.

Perfect Peace in a Chaotic World

In a world that often feels overwhelmed by chaos, Christ offers a peace that surpasses understanding. Isaiah 26:3 assures us that He will keep in perfect peace those with steadfast minds. This is because they trust in Him. This peace is not contingent on circumstances but rooted in a deep and abiding faith in His sovereignty and goodness.

The Church on Mission

As we reflect on the true nature of the Church, let us recommit ourselves to its mission. The Church is not a passive entity. It is an active force for good. It is called to bring justice, righteousness, and redemption to a broken world. In the days ahead, may we rise as the Ekklesia. Let us become a people united in faith, unwavering in hope, and unstoppable in love.

Christ is building His Church, and nothing—no power of hell, no scheme of man—can stand against it. Let us step into this divine calling with boldness and humility, trusting in His promise and walking in His ways. Together, as His chosen people, we will see His kingdom come. His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Blessings,

Minister A. Francine Green