What is the Church?

Matthew 16:13–20

By Pastor Lance English, January 02, 2025

(Matthew 16:13-20)

  1. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CHURCH

    1. From Pentecost to modern-day, Christ has faithfully built His Church.
    2. Highlights:
      1. Apostolic preaching and martyrdom fueled growth.
      2. Reformation: Return to Scripture and gospel clarity.
      3. Local legacy: Formation of churches like Calvary Baptist in Staunton.

  2. PETER'S CONFESSION (Matthew 16:13–16)

    1. Key Question: “Who do you say that I am?” 1.“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
    2. Significance:
      1. Christ as the Rock: Foundation of faith and cornerstone of the Church.
      2. Peter as the Rock: Apostolic faithfulness ensures continuity with the confession.

  3. JESUS RESPONSE (Matthew 16:17–20)

  1. Blessing on Peter:
    1. Revelation of Jesus’ identity comes from the Father.
    2. Peter’s role in the foundation of the Church: Apostolic authority and stewardship.
  2. Building the Church:
    1. Promise of Victory: “The gates of hell shall not prevail.”
    2. Kingdom Authority: Keys to bind and loose as representatives of heaven’s rule. • The Church as an Embassy: o Earthly representation of the heavenly kingdom.

IV.The Church’s Nature A. Universal Church: 1. Composed of believers across all times and places. 2. Images of the Church in Scripture: a) Building: Christ as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19–22). b) Body: Unity in diversity, Christ as the head (1 Corinthians 12:12). c) Bride: Relationship with Christ (Revelation 19:7). 3. Confession: “We believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.” B. Local Church: 1.Characteristics: a) Gospel Proclaimed: Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. b) Believers Gathered: Baptized community confessing Christ. c) Ordinances Observed: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. 2. Mission: Making disciples, guarding the gospel, and reflecting Christ’s kingdom.

The Church’s Call to Action:

  1. To Non-Believers: a)Invitation to confess Christ as Lord and join the universal Church.

    1. Romans 10:9–10: Faith in Christ leads to salvation.

  2. To Attenders:

    1. Call to move from the fringes into full covenant membership.
    2. Join the local church community committed to gospel proclamation and mutual accountability.

  3. To Covenant Members:

    1. Renew commitment to guarding the confession and life of the Church.
    2. Embrace the Church’s invisible glory despite visible flaws