The Church: God's Strategy Against the Gates of Hell

"And 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. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." - Matthew 16:18-19 (ESV)


In Matthew 16:18-19, Jesus declares a profound truth that resonates through the ages. He speaks to Peter, acknowledging him as the foundation upon which He will build His church. The gates of hell, the powers of death and darkness, will not prevail against it. This declaration is not merely a promise, but a powerful revelation of God's divine strategy to combat the forces of evil.

The church, as ordained by God, is not a passive entity. It is not a fortress hiding from the world but a force advancing against the very gates of hell. God's strategy to defeat the power of death and hell is encapsulated in the establishment and growth of His churches. As we plant new churches, we are actively participating in God's divine plan to bring light into the darkest corners of the earth.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer wisely stated, "The Church is the Church only when it exists for others." This profound truth echoes the essence of Christ's words in Matthew 16. The church exists not for self-preservation but for selfless service. It is a beacon of hope in a world bound by the chains of sin and despair. In planting new churches, we extend the reach of God's love and grace, breaking the chains that bind hearts and minds.

The keys of the kingdom, bestowed upon the church, represent the authority and power given by Christ. This authority empowers us to bind the forces of evil and release the redemptive power of God into the world. Through the planting of churches, we exercise these keys, unlocking the doors of salvation, healing, and transformation for those who are bound by the grip of darkness.

The quote by Bonhoeffer emphasizes that the church's purpose is not domination but service. It is a living testimony to what it means to live for Christ, to exist for others. In planting new churches, we embrace the call to be a helping hand and a source of healing. We become instruments of God's love, extending His invitation to a broken world.

Today, let us reflect on the immense privilege and responsibility we have been given to participate in God's strategy against the powers of death and hell. As we plant new churches, may we do so with a heart that beats for others-a heart that mirrors the sacrificial love of our Savior. In this, we fulfill the divine purpose of the church, standing boldly against the gates of hell and ushering in the kingdom of heaven. 


Also Explore

Appointing Elders, Advancing the Gospel

Paul's letter to Titus opens with urgency and mission. Crete had received the gospel. Churches had been planted. But Paul makes it clear: the work wasn't finished. The gospel had come, but in order to take root, grow, and expand further, elders had to be appointed. Leadership wasn't optional-it was foundational.

Not by Might: The Call to Lead Through the Holy Spirit and God’s Word

In Christian leadership, the temptation to depend on human strength is constant. Leaders may trust their education, experience, or strategies to carry out the work of ministry. But Scripture gives a clear reminder: the building of God's Kingdom is not a human achievement. As Zechariah 4:6 declares, "Not by might nor by

God’s Gift and Our Response: The Cycle of Grace, Gratitude, and Worship

The Christian faith is marked by a unique and profound rhythm: grace, gratitude, and praise. At the core of this faith lies the unmerited favor of God, a gift so freely given that it defies human understanding. Scripture declares, "For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace" (John 1:16, ESV). This

Called to Make Disciples in All Nations

In His Great Commission, Jesus commands us to make disciples-not simply to inspire a single moment of conversion but to lead others into a committed, lifelong walk with Him. As Reformed theologian R.C. Sproul wisely reminds us, "Jesus' lordship encompasses all of life."

Events
  • 29
    Oct
    33rd General Assembly

    The Annual General Assembly of WOA convenes mission and ministry representatives from around the world to reflect on God's blessings over the past year, deliberate on strategic initiatives, and foster unity within our global community. This gathering serves as a pivotal opportunity to align our collective efforts with our shared faith and mission.

  • 22
    Sep
    11th Global Diakonos Training Course

    11th Global Diakonos Training Course seeks to equip participants with sound biblical teaching and guidance for the life and ministry of a deacon. This program offers biblical instruction, leadership development, and practical ministry tools to help participants serve effectively and remain steadfast in their calling.

  • 01
    Aug
    Olivet Teen Mission Summer Camp 2025

    The OTM Summer Camp 2025 is a special gathering for teens to grow in faith and leadership. Through Bible studies, prayer, fellowship, and fun activities, teens will deepen their relationship with God, build meaningful friendships, and be equipped as future spiritual leaders in their churches and communities.

Resources ⟶

World Olivet Assembly believes in equipping believers with theological and practical resources that would enable them to advance the work the gospel.

Also Explore
About world olivet

World Olivet Assembly (WOA) is a global gathering of evangelical churches and para-church organizations existing for the advancement of world mission.

resources

World Olivet Assembly believes in equipping believers with theological and practical resources that would enable them to advance the work the gospel.

COPYRIGHT © 2007-2025 WORLD OLIVET ASSEMBLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.