The Indestructible Church: Built by Jesus, Built to Last

In a world where everything seems fleeting and fragile, there's something remarkably comforting about the promise of permanence. We often seek assurance in slogans and guarantees, like Ford's famous "Built to last" campaign. But what if there was a promise of endurance that transcended clever marketing? What if there was an institution built not just to withstand the test of time, but to prevail against the very gates of hell?

This is precisely the promise we find in Matthew 16:18, where Jesus declares, "I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." It's a bold statement, one that has echoed through centuries and continues to resonate today. But to truly grasp the weight of this promise, we must first understand the One who made it.

The book of Colossians paints a vivid portrait of Jesus that leaves us in awe of His majesty and power. He is described as "the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation" (Colossians 1:15). This isn't just poetic language; it's a profound declaration of Christ's divinity and supremacy. Jesus isn't merely a good teacher or a wise philosopher – He is God incarnate, the perfect representation of the Father.

But the description doesn't stop there. We're told that "all things were created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16). From the tiniest ant to the vastness of the cosmos, everything that exists came into being through Jesus and finds its purpose in Him. He is the ultimate architect, builder, and owner of all creation. This means that when Jesus promises to build His church, He does so with unparalleled authority and capability.

The passage goes on to affirm that "he is before all things, and in him all things hold together" (Colossians 1:17). This speaks to Christ's eternal nature and His ongoing role as the sustainer of the universe. Just as He keeps the planets in orbit and the atoms from flying apart, Jesus holds His church together through every storm and struggle.

As we contemplate these truths, we begin to see why the promise to build the church is so significant. The One making this vow is not just a skilled craftsman or a visionary leader – He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, the King of kings and Lord of lords. When Jesus says He will build His church, it's as certain as the rising of the sun or the turning of the tides.

But what does this mean for us today? How does this cosmic Christ relate to our everyday experience of church life?

• First, it reminds us that Jesus is the true head of every local church. While we may have elders, deacons, and leaders, ultimately, Christ is the one directing and guiding His people. This should shape how we approach church governance, decision-making, and vision-casting. Are we truly seeking His will, or are we simply following our own preferences and plans?
• Secondly, it gives us a profound sense of security and hope. In a world where institutions crumble and organizations fail, the church stands as an indestructible beacon of God's faithfulness. This doesn't mean individual congregations won't face challenges or even closures, but it does mean that the global, universal Church will continue to advance until Christ returns. We can take comfort in knowing that we're part of something bigger than ourselves, something that will outlast empires and outlive generations.
• Thirdly, it calls us to humility and stewardship. If Jesus is building His church, then our role is to faithfully steward the gifts and opportunities He provides. We're not called to build our own kingdoms or make a name for ourselves. Instead, we're invited to participate in Christ's work, recognizing that any growth or success is ultimately His doing.

As we look to the future, this promise allows us to face uncertainty with confidence. Whether we're dealing with cultural shifts, internal conflicts, or resource challenges, we can trust that Jesus is still at work, still building, still holding all things together. This doesn't mean we become passive or complacent. Rather, it frees us to take bold steps of faith, knowing that our ultimate success doesn't depend on our own strength or strategy.

It's worth noting that Jesus didn't promise His church an easy path. In fact, He speaks of the "gates of hell" not prevailing against it, implying that there will be opposition and struggle. But in this imagery, we see the church not as a fortress under siege, but as an advancing force that even death itself cannot stop.

This brings us back to the idea of something "built to last." While earthly institutions may boast of their longevity or durability, only the church can claim true invincibility. Not because of its members' strength or its leaders' wisdom, but because of the One who builds and sustains it.

As we reflect on these truths, let's ask ourselves:

• Do we truly trust Jesus as the head of our church, or are we prone to relying on human wisdom and strategies?
• How does the promise of Christ building His church impact our perspective on challenges and setbacks?
• In what ways can we better align ourselves with Jesus' work of building His church in our communities and beyond?

The story of the church is still being written, and we each have a part to play. But let's remember that it's Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith. He's the one who began this good work, and He's the one who will bring it to completion.

In a world of uncertainty and change, the church stands as a testament to God's unchanging faithfulness. Built by Jesus, sustained by His power, and destined for eternal glory – this is the church we're called to be part of. May we never lose sight of its divine architect or its unshakeable foundation.