Explaining Matthew 16:18 in Everyday Language
What Did Jesus Mean When He Said, “I Will Build My Church”?
In the Bible, in Matthew 16:18, Jesus tells the Apostle Peter, “I will build my church.” This simple statement holds a lot of meaning for Christians, and it’s worth exploring what Jesus wanted to teach his followers with these words.
The Context: A Big Question and a Powerful Answer
Jesus and his disciples were in a place called Caesarea Philippi when he asked them a very important question: “Who do people say that I am?” People had lots of opinions, but Simon Peter boldly replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In other words, Peter believed that Jesus was God’s chosen Savior, not just another teacher or prophet.
Jesus was pleased with Peter’s answer and explained that Peter was blessed because God had helped him understand this truth. Jesus said that Peter’s confession was so important, it would be the foundation for something huge: the Church.
Breaking Down the Statement
· “I will build”: Jesus himself is the one who creates and grows the Church. It’s not just people organizing something; it’s God at work.
· “My church”: The Church belongs to Jesus—it’s his, not anyone else’s. No one person or group owns it; it’s about following Jesus.
· “On this rock”: The “rock” isn’t Peter himself, but the strong, unshakable truth that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Peter’s confession is the rock-solid foundation the Church is built on.
· “The gates of Hades will not prevail against it”: This means that all the forces of evil and death can never destroy the Church. It will stand strong forever, no matter what comes against it.
Why Is This Statement So Important?
Jesus was making a promise: the Church he builds will never be defeated. It’s built on the truth of who he is—the Christ, God’s Son. This foundation isn’t a person or a leader, but faith in Jesus himself.
Peter was given a special role because he spoke this truth, but Jesus made it clear that the real foundation is his identity and the belief in him as Savior. The Church is a community of people who hold onto this truth, and because of that, it can never be overcome by evil.
Some people might think that Peter himself was the rock, but the original words in the Bible show a play on words. Peter’s name means “stone,” but the “rock” Jesus talked about is the bigger, lasting truth of faith in him. Jesus is the ultimate foundation, and everyone who puts their faith in him is part of his Church.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
If you’re a Christian, this passage is a reminder that the Church isn’t just a building or a group led by one person—it’s a worldwide family founded on believing that Jesus is the Christ. It’s also a promise that no matter what challenges come, the Church will endure because it’s built by Jesus himself.
It also reminds us that only God can forgive sins and provide salvation, not any human leader. The Church should always be centered on Jesus and the truth of who he is.
Conclusion
Jesus’ words, “I will build my church,” are a powerful promise. They tell us that the Church is his creation, built on faith in him, and it will stand strong forever. For believers, this is a source of hope and encouragement, knowing that nothing can shake the foundation Jesus himself has laid.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 