His

 When our Lord Jesus went into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He initiated a conversation with His disciples that would forever change their perception of their teacher and themselves as His followers (Matthew 16:13-20). Jesus begins by asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” (v.13). His followers offer various answers, referring to past prophets of God. Jesus challenges His disciples further and asks, “But who do You say I am?” (v.15). Boldy, Simon Peter replies, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (v.16). In His response to Peter’s accurate proclamation, Jesus would explain this was divine truth brought by His Father in heaven (v.17) and the new identity of His faithful – His church. Jesus asserts to Peter and all the disciples: “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.  And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:17-18, ESV).

The boldness of our Lord's proclamation of my church presents a vivid perspective of who owns this assembly of God's people. Young and old – they all belong to the Son of Man. My friends, what do these verses tell you about the church and you as part of His church? We gather, worship, grow, and serve for the glory of our King Jesus because our identity belongs to Him. 

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