JESUS THE FOUNDATION OF THE CHURCH
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 16:18
Key Verse: “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” — Matthew 16:18
Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 2:20; Isaiah 28:16; Colossians 1:18; Acts 2:47
INTRODUCTION
Every building stands or falls on its foundation. In life, the Church is no different; its strength, unity, and endurance are anchored in Christ. Jesus, as the Foundation of the Church, ensures stability, continuity, and victory for all believers. Without Him, the Church would crumble under trials, opposition, and spiritual attack. Understanding this truth safeguards believers against deception and instability.
Jesus’ declaration to Peter, that He would build His Church upon the Rock, was both a promise and a revelation. It shows that the Church’s power does not depend on human leadership, wisdom, or strength, but on Christ Himself: the immovable, eternal Rock. Recognising this truth empowers believers to trust, obey, and remain steadfast even in turbulent times.
In a world of shifting doctrines, moral decay, and spiritual opposition, knowing that Jesus is the Foundation gives us confidence. This message explores the stability, unity, protection, and purpose that Christ provides to His Church, urging every believer to anchor fully in Him.
1. JESUS IS THE UNSHAKABLE FOUNDATION OF THE CHURCH
The Church survives not by human wisdom, traditions, or programs, but by the unmovable presence and authority of Jesus Christ.
a) The Cornerstone of Salvation (1 Corinthians 3:11). Christ is the only foundation upon which eternal salvation and spiritual growth are securely built.
b) The Rock of Stability (Isaiah 28:16). Believers find spiritual security and confidence in the Rock who never fails.
c) The Source of Unity (Ephesians 2:20). Jesus binds all members together, forming a Church that is one in spirit and purpose.
d) The Protector Against the Gates of Hell (Matthew 16:18). The Church remains unshaken because Jesus’ foundation repels every attack of the enemy.
Biblical Example: Peter’s bold confession in Matthew 16:16-18 illustrates the Church’s foundation in Christ; despite opposition, the gates of hell cannot prevail against it.
2. JESUS PROVIDES SPIRITUAL CONTINUITY AND GROWTH
A strong foundation ensures that the Church grows in truth, grace, and spiritual power.
a) The Foundation for Building Disciples (Colossians 1:18). Christ ensures that every believer grows in maturity and purpose.
b) The Sustainer of the Church (Acts 2:47). The Church thrives because Jesus continually adds lives to His community.
c) The Source of Spiritual Gifts (Ephesians 4:11-12). Christ equips believers for service, ensuring the Church’s effectiveness in ministry.
d) The Encourager of Perseverance (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus, as the Foundation, inspires endurance and faithfulness in the face of trials.
Biblical Example: The early Church in Acts grew exponentially because it was anchored in Jesus, teaching, fellowship, and prayer.
3. JESUS GUARANTEES PROTECTION AGAINST SPIRITUAL ATTACKS
No opposition, deception, or persecution can overthrow the Church when Christ is its Foundation.
a) The Defender Against Falsehood (1 John 4:1). The Church withstands false teachings and deception when anchored in the truth of Christ.
b) The Shield Against Persecution (Matthew 10:22). Followers of Jesus remain steadfast even when facing hostility and threats.
c) The Conqueror of Satanic Forces (Ephesians 6:10-11). The spiritual attacks of darkness are repelled because the Church stands on Christ’s authority.
d) The Source of Divine Victory (Romans 16:20). Every enemy plan against the Church is frustrated by the power of Jesus, the Rock.
Biblical Example: Despite threats, imprisonment, and persecution, the Church continued to grow in Acts because it rested firmly on Christ as its Foundation.
4. JESUS ESTABLISHES PURPOSE AND ETERNAL RELEVANCE
The Church is not merely an institution; it exists to fulfill God’s eternal purpose through Christ.
a) The Foundation for Divine Mission (Matthew 28:19-20)
Jesus ensures the Church fulfills the Great Commission, reaching the world with the gospel.
b) The Anchor for Righteous Influence (Philippians 1:27). The Church impacts society by standing firm in truth and holiness.
c) The Source of Eternal Reward (1 Peter 5:4). Those built upon Christ’s foundation receive eternal recognition for faithfulness.
d) The Builder of a Lasting Legacy (Psalm 127:1). Every work done in alignment with Christ’s foundation prospers and endures.
Biblical Example: The ministry of the apostles demonstrates that the Church’s influence expands because it is built upon Jesus, the eternal Rock.
CONCLUSION
Jesus is the unshakable Foundation upon which the Church stands. All attacks, storms, and opposition cannot overthrow it because He is eternal, faithful, and victorious. As believers, understanding that our faith is anchored in Christ brings stability, courage, and confidence.
Therefore, anchor your life, your service, and your devotion in Jesus. Build your spiritual life upon Him, and your Church will not only survive but thrive, advancing the Kingdom of God with power, unity, and divine protection. Stand firm, remain obedient, and allow Christ to be the cornerstone of all you do.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord Jesus, thank You for being the eternal Foundation of Your Church.
2. Father, help me to build my life firmly upon the Rock, Christ Jesus.
3. Lord, strengthen the Church against every attack of the enemy.
4. Father, let the Church grow in unity, love, and divine purpose.
5. Lord, make every believer steadfast and unshakable in faith.
6. Jesus, guide the Church to fulfill Your Great Commission.
7. Father, empower the Church to influence the world with righteousness.
8. Lord, protect the Church from false teachings and deception.
9. Jesus, let the work of my hands prosper because it is built on You.
10. Father, establish my life and ministry permanently upon Your unmovable Foundation.
