New Testament
Matthew 16:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell will not overpower it.
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And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
What Matthew 16:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to Peter, whose name means 'rock.' He declares that He will build His church on this rock, symbolizing Peter's role in the early church. The phrase 'gates of hell' refers to the forces of evil and death. Jesus assures that these forces will not defeat the church. This statement emphasizes the strength and permanence of the church, which is founded on faith in Christ. It highlights Peter's leadership and the authority given to him, as well as the assurance that the church will endure against all challenges. This verse is significant for understanding the foundation of Christian community and the promise of divine protection against evil. It reassures believers that despite trials and opposition, the church will remain strong and victorious through Christ's power.
How to apply Matthew 16:18 to your life
This verse encourages believers to recognize the strength of the church and their role within it. It reminds us that, despite challenges, we can trust in Christ's promise of protection and victory. Engaging actively in church life can help us grow in faith and support one another.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Peter's Confession (Matthew 16:13–20)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 16:18 mean?
Matthew 16:18 means that Jesus is establishing Peter as a foundational leader of the church. He uses the metaphor of a rock to signify Peter's strength and role in building the Christian community, assuring that the church will withstand evil forces.
What is the meaning of 'gates of hell' in Matthew 16:18?
The 'gates of hell' in Matthew 16:18 refers to the powers of evil and death. Jesus is promising that these forces will not be able to defeat or overpower the church He is building.
Why is Peter called a rock in Matthew 16:18?
Peter is called a rock in Matthew 16:18 because his name means 'rock' in Greek. This symbolizes his strong foundation and leadership role in the early church that Jesus is establishing.
How does Matthew 16:18 apply to believers today?
Matthew 16:18 applies to believers today by reminding them of the strength and protection of the church. It encourages active participation in the church community, reinforcing faith and support among members.
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