We’ve all heard the phrase “the church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.” But what if it’s also a mighty fortress, an unstoppable force advancing towards a greater purpose? What if, instead of simply defending against darkness, the Church was designed to be inherently offensive?
This isn’t about aggression or judgment. This is about recognizing the powerful truth woven throughout Scripture: God has given His Church a mission, and it’s time we stepped boldly into it.
In Matthew 16, Jesus has a pivotal conversation with his disciples, declaring, “Upon this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Notice, Jesus doesn’t say the Church will withstand the gates of hell. He says they won’t even stand a chance.
This imagery points to an important distinction: gates are defensive structures. They hold something in, offering protection from an outside force. Jesus, however, didn’t build a Church meant to cower behind walls. He established a force meant to break down barriers and advance His Kingdom!
So how do we, as everyday Christians, answer this call?
- Recognize Your Sphere of Influence: God has strategically placed you in your workplace, your neighborhood, your family. These aren’t just places to survive; they’re mission fields ripe for harvest.
- Let Your Actions Become Worship: It’s easy to compartmentalize faith to Sunday mornings. But what if every act of integrity, kindness, and excellence at work became an act of worship unto God?
- Be a Kingdom Builder: Look for opportunities to share God’s love in practical ways. Be a source of encouragement, offer help to those in need, live out your faith authentically.
The Church isn’t a building or an event—it’s a movement of people empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring heaven to earth. Let’s stop playing defense and start living like the offensive force God created us to be.
Ready to go deeper? Watch Mike Henry’s latest Vision Cast on the Follower of One YouTube channel for more on this powerful message.
Let’s start a conversation! How do you see yourself playing a role in advancing God’s Kingdom in your daily life? connect at community.followerofone.org
