The Eternal Church – Mt.16: 18 – Michael Mazzalongo
Intro – One of the debates that we often have with unbelievers is how all of this came to
be.
1. The evolutionary view says that all things began in some primal chaos
and through time and chance has evolved to the position we now find
ourselves in — with the future bringing more refinement and
improvement.
2. The Biblical model, on the other hand, says that we began at the
pinnacle, with man created as perfect and good — and then through
sin we have developed into what we are today.
 And the future sees us repeating this cycle until Jesus comes.
– Now, there seems to be a better argument for evolution because through our advanced
technology we have more gadgets today, more information than before — but a quick
review of history will show that man is no better morally or spiritually than he’s ever
been, and technological advances have, in many instances speeded up the
degeneration of our environment, our society and our sense of worth as individuals.
– It’s plain to see that we’re falling apart, not getting better; if you don’t believe me
think .. Holocaust, Columbine, Internet Porn, 911
– Jesus certainly understood correctly the developing nature of our world and offered
one thing that went against the natural order of decay and death … and that was
membership in the eternal church.
– Jesus taught that everything in the universe, as great as it is, is dying, rotting, wearing
out — except the church.
– In Mt.16: 18 He said, “.. upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of
hell shall not overpower it”.
– Everything in this world is slowing down coming apart, dying (and we observe this in
our own lives and the world around us) … everything that is, except the church!
 Jesus said that nothing will or can destroy it. As a matter of fact, the Bible says that it
will continue to grow until it fills and dominates every other kingdom in the world
and remain that way forever. Dan.2: 44
I. Confidence in the Eternal Church.
 As Christians living in this world, we experience a dual existence.
A – We live in mortal bodies that are part of a world that is passing away.
– The fact that we gather in prayer to acknowledge the struggles and
suffering of so many is a testimony to this fact.
B – However, we are also part of the eternal church that will never be
destroyed, never be conquered, never pass away.
– Again, the fact that we gather to take communion is also a testimony to
our faith in this dual reality.
 The knowledge of this fact should give us great confidence as we live out our lives in
this temporary place as part of an eternal body. Here’ s why:
1. We Shouldn’t Worry.
 We shouldn’t worry about the ability of the church to survive the times.
 Throughout history the church has gone up and down in its size and effectiveness.
 These are normal fluctuations that the church has always, and will always have until
Jesus comes.
.. Being Part Of An Eternal Church Means..
2. We Shouldn’t Be Afraid.
 If we look at history, every generation brings another group or government, or
philosophy that attempts to control, destroy or dismiss the church — but all have
failed.
 Jesus promised that the church, although severely tested at times, would always
prevail.
 You are safe with God in the church that belongs to Christ.
3. We Shouldn’t Quit.
 Sometimes we see other religions, and other groups growing faster, drawing more and
more people to themselves.
 In the days of the Apostles the “state” religion of Rome was acceptable, popular, and
represented the status quo.
 Christianity was considered the religion of the naïve and poor.
 You will note that the glorious Roman Empire is gone the Lord’s church is still here
doing the Lord’s work.
 We’re not here to be popular or noticed, we’re here to preach the word of the Lord
and do His work in this generation like those who came before us and those we know
will come after —— a golden chain that stretches from the cross to the glorious
return of Christ! .. and we are one precious link in that chain..
Invitation
 What a comfort it is to know that despite our hurts and struggles, we belong to the
one thing that is not decaying in this world; we belong to the one thing that is ever
growing, ever moving forward — the church of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
 What a comfort to know that despite our tears and disappointments, we can have
confidence, security, hope in the fact that as members of this body, the Lord will not
permit our souls to be lost, our beings to pass away but will raise us up in glory when
He comes for us, His church.
 What a comfort to know that the Lord of this church has promised us that He will
never leave us, never abandon us, always be with us so that our prayers and concerns
are always before Him …. what or who else offers such comfort, such promise?
 Instead of fearing or fretting about the condition of this world, you should be asking
yourselves these questions:
– Am I a member of the body that will never die?
– Am I a part of the church that neither hell nor the end of the world will
destroy?
– We offer you the opportunity this day; the opportunity to be added to
the everlasting church by Jesus Himself — and He will do it now if
you come to Him confessing your faith in Him, repenting of your sins,
and accept to be buried into His forgiveness through baptism at this
time.
 If you have prayer or ministry needs please come now.