What Did Jesus Say About The Church

Jesus engages with His disciples about His identity. In the region of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is. The disciples report various opinions, including John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the prophets. Jesus then directly asks them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answers, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Jesus praises Peter for his insight, emphasizing that this revelation came from God, not human understanding. Jesus then declares Peter as the rock upon which He will build His church, and He promises that the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Additionally, Jesus grants Peter the "keys of the kingdom of heaven," giving him the authority to bind and loose on earth, reflecting heavenly authority. This passage is pivotal, highlighting Peter's role in the early church and affirming the divine nature of Jesus' mission.