Unlimited: Christ is the Foundation of the Church
Mar 30, 2020 1412
I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church (Matt 18:18, NIV).
In response to Peter’s answer, Jesus calls Peter a rock, and speaks of building the Christian church upon a rock (Mt 16:17-19). Much has been made of this passage.
Peter is a great man, whom God used to open the church to Jews and gentiles. Every time the apostles are listed, Peter is always first, and Judas last. Peter is very important; but some have claimed too much for him.
The issue in the dialogue between Jesus and his disciples is not, “Who is Peter?” but rather, “Who is Jesus?”
When Peter gives his correct answer, Jesus tells him God revealed the answer to him. Then Jesus said, “Peter, your name means a stone or a rock. This truth that you have uttered about me being the Christ, is a rock foundation into which you and the other disciples are built. You are built upon me, the Cornerstone. The temple of the Christian church will rear up on that Cornerstone.”
The very foundation of the Christian church is the truth about Christ. If Christ is merely human, then Christianity is only a philosophy. If Christ is only human, he was but a martyr on the cross, not a Saviour. If he was a sinner, too, as you and I are, he cannot forgive our sins.
– Des Ford (adapted)
Eli’s Reflection: What is the most important truth about Christ to you? How can you share this with someone this week?
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