Defining The English Word Church . . . Matthew 16:13-20

Verse 19 is a key verse for all disciples

1. The Place . . . The Region of Caesarea Philippi . . .Matthew 16:13
2. Caesarea Philippi Was a Significant Theological Location
   1. Caesarea Philippi - It was the Northernmost Point mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew
   2. Caesarea Philippi - The area was known for pagan worship, especially of the Greek godPan, and had a temple dedicated to Caesar Augustus.
   3. Its pagan associations contrasted sharply with the revelation of Jesus' True Identity, making the moment spiritually charged.
3. Why is Caesarea Philippi So Important?
   1. This encounter marked a turning point in Jesus' ministry, as He began to reveal more about His mission, including His suffering and resurrection
   2. AND . . . Peter's confession became a foundational moment in Christian belief.
4. Define "Church in Greek"  . . . Ekklessia
   1. Church in English is Translated into Ekklesia In Greek . . . Compound Word . . . EK + Kaleo = EKKLESIA
   2. EK = OUT
   3. KALEO = Beckon, Call, Summon, Invite
   4. Here is the Challenge with the English language . . .
   5. Church is expressed as Local and as The Body of Christ.
5. What is Church in the New Testament?
   1. The usage of this word, unmistakeable means that a local church is a body of individuals who have been called out, called forth, and separated for the purposes of God.
6. A Definition of Ekklesia in 30 words or less. [LOL]
   1. Ekklesia:  The "called-out" assembly of covenant sons and daughters gathering in relationship, aligned in purpose, governed by the Spirit and sent to manifest His Kingdom through collective authority, function and life.
   2. The Ekklesia is the true authentic expression of Kingdom Governance on Earth as it is in Heaven . . . IN THE LORD'S PRAYER . . .THY KINGDOM COME . . .THY WILL BE DONE . . .Simply put, the Ekklesia is the Legislative Arm of the Judicial Branch of the Kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven.