In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares, “I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” But what exactly is the Church? It is more than just a building; it is the Body of Christ, referred to as temple, family, bride, and army in the Bible. The Greek word “Ekklesia” signifies a group of people called for a specific purpose.
Jesus entrusted His Church with a divine mandate—to proclaim the kingdom of God on earth. This includes preaching the gospel with signs and wonders. In the book of Acts, we witness the apostles performing miracles under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This same power is available to believers today.
However, to manifest this supernatural power, believers must align themselves with Jesus, the Head of the Church. Obedience is key. Jesus commanded His followers to preach the gospel, make disciples, heal the sick, and cast out demons. When we obey, He promises that signs will follow.
Unfortunately, many believers lack spiritual power because they haven’t learned to walk in supernatural authority. The Church’s purpose is clear: to proclaim the gospel, make disciples, and expand the Kingdom of God by demonstrating His power. We are called to destroy the works of the enemy—illness, oppression, bondage—through the power of Jesus.
The expansion of God’s Kingdom does not need natural violence but requires spiritual warfare. As Jesus said in Matthew 11:12, “the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.” This spiritual violence involves preaching the Kingdom with power and demonstrating the life of the Kingdom through divine healing and deliverance.
Jesus continues His work on earth through His Church. We are His hands and feet, tasked with reaching the world with His love and power. Total devotion, obedience, and availability are essential for letting Jesus work through us. Our highest calling is to lead people to Jesus through signs and wonders.
Are you willing to be used by God? Are you ready to say, “Here I am, send me”? If so, you are ready to be filled with the Holy Spirit and empowered to carry out the mission of the Church. As Acts 1:8 declares, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses.” Let us be vessels of His power and instruments of His love, bringing hope and healing to a broken world.
