26/02/2026
I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
-Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:18)
Though with a scornful wonder
men see her sore oppressed,
by schisms rent asunder,
by heresies distressed,
yet saints their watch are keeping,
their cry goes up, “How long?”
And soon the night of weeping
shall be the morn of song.
3rd stanza, “The Church’s One Foundation”
by Samuel John Stone.
“Men, we are surrounded by the enemy. We have the greatest opportunity ever presented an army. We can attack in any direction.”
― Gen. Anthony McAuliffe of the U.S. 101st Airborne Division during the Battle of the Bulge
The language of the kingdom is one of warfare. We fight not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of Satan.
The church is God’s kingdom instrument in this fight. It is his army on the offensive. The church will face opposition, harassment, and persecution during its offensive. Like General McAuliffe's men, we are surrounded.
Yet, the mystery is that we are not to fight our battles in our own strength or might but by the power of the Spirit; not through bombs or bullets but through the Word of God; not through hate and deception, but through love and truth.
Yes, we must stand boldly but humbly. Remember that we wage war against our own flesh, the world, and the devil. Many will oppose us. We should be gracious because they are slaves of the evil one. We should desire their freedom- the freedom which can only be found in Jesus Christ.
The world will see us as weak. But we hope in this triumphant affirmation: Neither the principalities of this world nor the gates of hell will prevail. Christ will build and keep his church. Though surrounded on all sides, we will win.
Christ has given us ultimate victory through his death, resurrection, and ascension. He has ordained that his truth will triumph through us. Let us trust him. Let us hope in him. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself just as he is pure. As Christ’s army, let us discipline ourselves to accomplish the mission. Our Lamb has conquered, let us go forth and follow him.
The church shall never perish!
Her dear Lord to defend,
to guide, sustain, and cherish,
is with her to the end;
though there be those that hate her,
and false sons in her pale,
against both foe and traitor
she ever shall prevail.
4th stanza, “The Church’s One Foundation"
by Samuel John Stone.