Introduction
The church, as instituted by Jesus Christ, is often misunderstood and misrepresented. A prevailing notion suggests that the church, as the Body of Christ, can be corrupted, disgraced, or defeated by human beings or governmental institutions. This misconception has led many to question the church’s relevance, authority, and effectiveness. However, this article aims to refute this notion, reaffirming the veracity and invincibility of the church.
The Church as the Body of Christ
The church is not merely a human organization or institution; it is the living, breathing Body of Christ, with Jesus as its Head (Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18). As such, the church is endowed with divine life, power, and authority. It is a spiritual entity, transcending human limitations and vulnerabilities.
The Church’s Divine Nature
The church’s divine nature renders it impervious to corruption, disgrace, or defeat. Jesus Christ, the Head of the church, has already triumphed over sin, death, and hell (Colossians 2:15, Hebrews 2:14-15). Consequently, the church, as His Body, shares in His victory and is therefore unstoppable.
The Gates of Hell Shall Not Prevail
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” This promise guarantees the church’s indestructibility and ensures its ultimate triumph over evil. No human being, institution, or power can thwart the church’s progress or undermine its authority.
The Church’s Unshakeable Foundation
The church’s foundation is rooted in the unshakeable rock of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11, Ephesians 2:20). This foundation ensures the church’s stability and security, despite the turbulence and chaos that may surround it. The church’s foundation is not based on human wisdom, power, or resources, but on the eternal and unchanging Word of God.
The Church’s Unstoppable Growth
Despite persecution, opposition, and challenges, the church continues to grow and expand, fulfilling its divine mandate to spread the gospel to all nations and peoples (Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8). The church’s growth is not limited by human constraints or obstacles, but is fueled by the power of the Holy Spirit and the unstoppable force of the gospel.
The Church’s Unwavering Commitment
The church remains unwavering in its commitment to its divine mission and mandate. Despite the challenges and obstacles that it faces, the church continues to proclaim the gospel, make disciples, and glorify God. The church’s commitment is not based on human loyalty or dedication, but on its unwavering allegiance to Jesus Christ and His unchanging Word.
Conclusion
The church, as the Body of Christ, is an invincible and indestructible entity. It cannot be corrupted, disgraced, or defeated by human beings or institutions. As the gates of hell cannot prevail against it, the church will continue to march on, fulfilling its divine mandate to spread the gospel, make disciples, and glorify God.
Let this truth reassure and embolden believers, and may it serve as a warning to those who would seek to undermine or oppose the church. For in the end, the church will emerge victorious, triumphant in its mission to extend the kingdom of God to all nations and peoples.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the church, your beloved Body, which you have redeemed with your precious blood. We acknowledge that the church is not a human institution, but a divine entity, endowed with your life, power, and authority. We pray that you will continue to build your church, and that the gates of hell will not prevail against it. May your church remain faithful to its divine mission and mandate, and may it continue to spread the gospel, make disciples, and glorify you. Amen.
About the Author
Dr. Elvis Enyioko, is the Executive Director of The Good Lord Thanksgiving Ministry International (TGLTMI).
His also the Provost and Vice President, International Studies and Leadership Development, Juliana King University (JKU), a Houston, Texas, USA, based Christian University.
He can be reached on: +2348077753824 (Call & WhatsApp)