A Call to Return to the Heart of the Gospel
What did Jesus mean when He said, “I will build my church” in Matthew 16:18? He was talking about a foundation of faith—a truth revealed to Peter about who Jesus really is: the Son of God. This isn’t just a story from the Bible, but a powerful reminder for today’s believers that everything starts with knowing Jesus personally and accepting Him as the cornerstone.
Why Does This Matter Now?
Our world is noisy and divided. Politics seem to pull people apart, and conspiracy theories make it hard to know what’s true. Even within churches, there’s debate—conservative vs. liberal, right vs. left. But Jesus didn’t say, “I will build my political party,” or “I will build my movement.” He said, “I will build my church.” That’s a wake-up call for every Christian, no matter their background or beliefs.
The True Foundation
When Jesus spoke those words to Peter, He was making it clear: the church isn’t built on personalities, politics, or ideologies. It’s built on the revealed truth that Jesus is the Son of God. That’s the rock. Everything else is secondary.
A Gospel That Transforms
The message of Jesus—the gospel—is meant to change lives. It’s not about prosperity or social status; it’s about healing, deliverance, and salvation for everyone, especially the hurting and marginalized. As believers, our focus needs to return to preaching this gospel, which transforms hearts and communities.
Wisdom for Today
Scripture tells us that the thoughts of the righteous are right, but the ways of the wicked are deceitful (Proverbs 12:5-7). In a world full of deception, especially in these “last days,” it’s easy to be led astray. Paul’s advice to Timothy was to hold onto what he learned from childhood—the Holy Scriptures. These words aren’t just old-fashioned; they’re “God-breathed” and useful for teaching, correcting, and training us to live rightly (2 Timothy 3:16).
Facing Modern Challenges
Today, many Americans are struggling: some with poverty, others with division, and still others with the aftermath of political turmoil. Stories of violence and conspiracy theories have shaken the nation, including attacks on democracy itself. The church can’t sit quietly while these things happen. God’s people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, the Bible says. That’s why returning to wisdom and the truth of Scripture is more important than ever.
Beyond Politics and Division
Too often, believers get caught between two extremes—dividing along political, racial, or ideological lines. But authentic Christianity isn’t about choosing sides. It’s about living out the teachings of Jesus, pursuing justice and compassion, and declaring the whole counsel of God.
Seeing with New Eyes
Maybe you see things differently. Maybe you, like the writer of this post, are someone who has lived through injustice, heartbreak, and the challenges of being marginalized. Authentic Christianity means seeing the world as Jesus did: loving justice, hating wrongdoing, and bringing hope to the oppressed. The church should be a place where healing and salvation are offered to all people, regardless of their background.
Accountability and Wisdom
If the church is to fulfill its mission—the Great Commission—it must return to its roots and be accountable to God’s Word. That means teaching truth, standing up against falsehoods, and not shrinking from declaring the whole will of God.
Answering Jesus’ Question
At the end of the day, Jesus’ question to Peter is the question for all of us: “Who do you say that I am?” If we truly believe He is the Son of God, then our lives—and our churches—must reflect that reality. We must reject false dichotomies and ideologies that divide, and instead build on the solid rock of Christ.
· Return to authentic faith: Focus on Jesus, not politics or personalities.
· Preach the true gospel: Healing and salvation for all.
· Stand for justice: Love people, pursue righteousness, reject division.
· Hold onto wisdom: Let Scripture guide your thoughts and actions.
Reclaiming authentic Christianity isn’t just a slogan—it’s a journey back to the heart of what Jesus intended. He promised, “I will build my church,” and nothing can overpower it. Let’s make sure we’re building on the right foundation.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 