Jesus was intentional in his choice of words when declaring to Peter, “On this rock I will build my church” (Mt 16:18). This is the first time the word “Church” is used in the Bible and our comprehension of the word is critical for the purpose of knowing what exactly Jesus is building. The original translation of the word in Greek is “Ekklesia” or “Ecclesia,” which was an assembly of the people convened at the public place of council for the purpose of deliberating. They were a gathering of citizens that came together to make important decisions for the state.

Jesus was using the word, “Ecclesia” to express that his church was not simply a temple building, but an assembly of his chosen people to relegate matters of his kingdom here on earth. When we associate the church with just a building, we limit the things of God to only occur there. In reality, we are the church and not the building, and God has called us to preside over the affairs of his kingdom here on earth.

Jesus declares, “And the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 16:18-19). In doing so, Jesus was giving us, the church, authority over the kingdom of this world. In ancient times, the city gates would be where the people would assemble to convene over governmental affairs. Jesus was assuring his disciples that the power structures of Hell that met could not overcome or prevail over the authority Jesus was establishing for the church. Jesus wants his church to be an advancing force that is not just defensively holding its ground.

In 1 John 3:8 it states, “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.” Jesus came on assignment and he also left the church with an assignment. By giving us the keys to the kingdom, he has given us access and authorization to act as agents for God here on earth. Jesus taught his disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Mt 6:10). By using heaven as a model, Jesus wants us to advocate for policies, justices, and a way of life that mirrors heaven.

There are many ways we can go about doing so, but the three main areas we can all focus on are prayer, sharing the gospel, and serving our community. As the church of Jesus Christ, we are his hands and feet, or the administrators of his will here on earth. As we pray for his will and we share the good news of the gospel, coupled with good deeds, we can continue to advance God’s kingdom here on earth with the confidence that we will not be overcome.