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CHURCH: [g1577 Ekklesia] an assembly, a congregation, those called out. Matthew 16:13-14 (NASB)  [First Mention of Church in the New Testament] Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" 14 And they said, "Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets."  Matthew 16:15 (NASB) Jesus said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"  Matthew 16:16 (NASB)  Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ [the Messiah, the anointed One], the Son of the living God." Matthew 16:17-18 (NASB) Jesus said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona [son of John], because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, My Father who is in heaven did. I also say to you that you are Peter [Petros: a stone], and upon this rock [Petra: a large rock; bed-rock] I will build My church; and the gates of Hell will not overpower it. 1. The Revelation & Confession of Jesus as Christ is the Foundation of the Church 2. The Church Belongs to Christ I will Build: [to build a house; a house builder, to construct, confirm, edify, embolden]   Psalm 127:1 (NASB) Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it. [NLT - the work of the builders is wasted]   Proverbs 24:3-4 (MSG) It takes wisdom to build a house, and understanding to set it on a firm foundation; It takes knowledge to furnish its rooms with fine furniture and beautiful draperies. Matthew 16:18 ...Upon the revelation of Who I Am, I will build My church; and the gates of Hell will not overpower it.  3. Jesus Built His Church To Last 4. The Church Is Responsible For The Keys Of The Kingdom Matthew 16:19 (NLT) I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven [power & authority to open or shut: responsibility & accountability]. Whatever you forbid [bind, tie up, or lock] on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit [loose, open, or release] on earth will be permitted in heaven." Luke 11:52 (MSG) Woe to you experts of the law! You took [removed, held back] the key of knowledge [to come to know, recognize, perceive], but instead of unlocking doors, you locked them. You won't go in yourself, and won't let anyone else in either.