The Church Triumphant

The Church Triumphant, Christian Sermon of Dr. Jason Allen
Matthew 16:13–20

Introduction
When it comes to our physical bodies, there is something good and right about a health checkup. In the same way, Matthew 16:13–20 provides the church with a health checkup. It is very important that we think rightly, clearly, and biblically about the church, and these verses call us to examine ourselves and our church, to take stock of our bearings, and to ponder our identity.

Embrace the Confession of the Church (vv. 13–17)

The church rises and falls on what it believes about Christ, and more personally, so does each person’s eternal destiny. Jesus asks who people say He is, and heaven forces the same question upon each of us. Peter answers that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. It is upon this simple confession that a church stands or falls.

Submit to the Lord of the Church (v. 18a)

Verse 18 reminds us that the Lord of the church is Christ Himself. There is much debate about this passage, but in it Jesus is saying that Peter is a pebble, but the divine confession he made is a mountain peak upon which Christ will build His church.

The church is built upon the truth of Christ: who He is and what He has done. Notice the Christ is the craftsman building His church. He is the one who owns it. He died for it, He is assembling it through His Holy Spirit, and He will return for it. Christ is the Lord of the church!

Labor with Confidence for the Church (v. 18b)

There is a ring of confidence and certainty in verse 18b, and it should put wind in the sails of every Christian.

There is a promise here that the Lord is building His church—His universal, global church. The triumph of the church will go forward. This text is also an assurance to individual congregations that when we are faithful, He is faithful.

As we are conscientious to obey Scripture, He is building His church. The means by which Christ builds His church are preaching/teaching of His Word, evangelism, worship, prayer, and service.

Purity of the Church (v. 19)

This verse has caused great confusion and deserves careful thought and handling. Authority rests in Scripture, the ability and responsibility to declare what is and what is not permitted in heaven. This is a commission of purity and holiness.

The church is to be different from, not the same as, the world. Note also that there is a trickle-down effect with purity and holiness. We must be careful to maintain purity and holiness in our lives that those around us, especially our children, will also learn to live pure and holy lives.

Conclusion
How should this all affect you? Cultivate in your heart a profound love for the church. Pray for the church. Guard the heart of the church. Finally, join in building the church.