Matthew 16:18, “On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Upon Peter’s confession in the Spirit, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (v. 16), Christ is building His Church. Any church that confesses Jesus Christ to be the Son of God is God’s true church (excluding certain heresies, for the doctrine of the Son of God roots out all heresy).
Today, Christians are terrified that the Church is “dying,” as if her existence somehow depends on us. Yes, we are God’s instruments, but Christ is the Master Builder. Boldly use the gifts and skills God has given you in advancing His kingdom, but trust ever more boldly in Christ, the Master Builder, the Great Architect, the Cornerstone of His Church. In His Church, Christ is immovable. If not even the gates of Hell can prevail against His Church, neither can unbelievers or the government.
Are numbers decreasing in church attendance? Yes, but do not be like the failed kings of Israel who trusted in military numbers rather than God. The Church has been on the brink of extinction in every age, and she still stands. This is not our own doing, but thanks be to God through Jesus Christ, His Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with God the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
The Lutheran Column 