When Jesus said this to Peter, Peter probably could have never imagined his profession of faith in Christ would catapult the building of a worldwide church. In the 4th century A.D., early believers built a basilica over Peter's grave in Rome, Italy, that today, millions of believers go on pilgrimage to honor Peter's calling, legacy, and faith in Christ.

In 2022, Christianity Today stated there were approximately 37 million congregations in the world (3.1 million in the U.S.). Today, faithful men and women continue to build and serve in churches and ministries worldwide, including dangerous lands where they are persecuted and killed.

Jesus said, "Peter, you are a rock. And upon you, and men like you, I will build my church." In this scripture, Peter is not the doubter or the denier. Peter is the believer and confessor. 1 Corinthians 3:11 tells us “no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Peter is the rock man, but Jesus is the Cornerstone. And the church is more than a building, it represents the body of Christ.

Jesus also promised us hell's attacks would not stop the church's progress. Because we confess by faith that Jesus is our Messiah and the Son of God, the power in us is far greater than the evil against us. So, saints, ignore the reports that churches are closing, and faith is dying—it is a lie from Hades. Faith is alive! Keep serving and praying that the church will continue advancing in His matchless name.

Dear Heavenly Father,

As Your representatives, give us a boldness to speak Your Word, advance the Gospel's good news, build Your church, and operate in the excellence of ministry gifts and intercessory prayer. May our membership in the Body of Christ abound and be filled with the fruits of righteousness, which come through Your Son Jesus. We pray Your glory be manifested and recognized by the light of Your Word that we carry to the world. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Has there been a time in your life when it seemed like the gates of hell prevailed? Or have you experienced betrayal from a Christian leader or friend? Today’s devotion is not a pep rally. It is the truth from God’s Word. Lay your grief, your dismay at the feet of Jesus and do not lose heart. God says, “What if some did not have faith, will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? By no means!” (Romans 3:3-4) Be encouraged and know that God is faithful, Jesus will build his church, his worldwide family of followers, and the gates of hell will not prevail.