You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not over come it. (Matthew 16:18)
First of all, Jesus is very clear regarding the ownership of the church. It is His church. Secondly, because it is His church, nothing coming against it will prevail. Jesus predicted that the church would be forthcoming in a powerful way that would stand against every adversity, even Hell. This assembly of people who would comprise the church, the Ekklesia, chosen by God (John 15:16) to represent His Kingdom, would trust Him, and obey Him. they would be guided by the attending work of the Holy Spirit to preach and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ that men, women, boys, and girls might be saved. At Pentecost, the prediction was birthed, and even today, continues just as Jesus said.
All over the world, Christ's church is represented by people who have surrendered their lives to Him and dedicated themselves to accomplishing His mission. We are so grateful that Jesus saved us and He has overseen the congregation at Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church for 68 years. For over Three Thousand Five Hundred and Thirty Six (3,536) Sundays we have been meeting together to worship God in Spirit and in Truth. As members of Christ's church, we are determined to carry out the mandate that our Lord and Savior gave us many years ago. I share the love of Christ with all Christians and churches everywhere. I am especially thankful to be a part of the FWMBC family. I have been a part of this family for 38 of those 68 years and I have felt and seen God's presence in the lives of our members.
Let us continue to face the future with courage, heart, and spirit as we do the work that our Lord has set for us to do. And may we always remember, it is Christ's church! And the gates of Hades will never overcome it.
"TO GOD BE THE GLORY!"