Get Off the Fence — The Church is On Offense
Scripture
Matthew 16:18 (NASB95)
I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.
Cowboy Wisdom
A good cowboy never just waits in the barn hoping the cattle don't stray. He saddles up, rides out, and works the herd. That's the picture Jesus paints of His church — not a group hunkered down behind the walls hoping the devil doesn't kick in the door, but a bold outfit riding straight at the enemy's gates.
Too many churches today act like they're the last outpost on a shrinking frontier. They bolt the doors, circle the wagons, and whisper prayers that things don't get worse. But Jesus said the gates of Hades won't stand against His church — and gates don't chase anybody. Gates are defensive. We're the ones on the move.
Every city in America is wrestling with real problems — homelessness, addiction, broken families, and deep division. The question isn't whether those needs are out there. The question is whether the church will ride toward them or sit on its hands. God never called His people to be spectators.
Today, ask yourself honestly: Is my faith active or passive? Am I waiting for God to fix the world around me, or have I saddled up and ridden into the needs right outside my door? The Lord didn't build a defensive wall — He built a church to go on the offensive for His glory.
Questions for Reflection
In what areas of your life or community are you sitting on your hands rather than riding out for Christ?
What would it look like for your local church to go on the offensive this week against a real community need?
How does knowing that the gates of hell cannot prevail change the way you approach your faith daily?
Prayer Focus
Lord, forgive me for the times I've treated faith as a shelter instead of a calling. Stir in me a boldness that reflects Your church on the offensive. Show me where You want me to ride out this week — and give me the courage to go. Amen.
"God didn't speak of the church being on the defensive — but rather the church is to be on the offensive, tearing down every stumbling block that Satan puts in front of us."
