The Foundation, the Focus, and the Fame of the Church
Bro. Joe Holden · October 7, 2026 Wednesday Morning Campmeeting Main texts: Matthew 16:13–18; Matthew 28:18–20; Mark 16:15–18 (KJV) “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.” — Matthew 16:18 Introduction: Be encouraged about Christ’s church The church is more than an organization or a building. It is the living body of Christ, established by Jesus and sustained by His power. Its future does not depend upon the strength or reputation of any individual. Bro. Joe identifies three things that should characterize the church: its foundation in Jesus Christ, its focus upon God’s Word, and its “fame”—the distinguishing evidence of God working among His people.
Read Matthew 16:13–18 in the KJV- 01
The foundation: Build your life upon Jesus Christ
- Jesus founded the church. Because it rests upon Him, neither outside opposition nor the enemy’s attempts to undermine it can overturn His promise.
- Christ’s resurrection gives the church a living foundation. He arose from the grave, ascended to the Father, and continues making intercession for His people.
- Difficult years, painful circumstances, and disappointing people do not change who Jesus is. He still saves, delivers, and sets people free.
- Build your confidence upon Christ rather than human personalities. The foundation remains secure even when your circumstances feel uncertain.
Scriptures: Matthew 16:13–18; 1 Corinthians 3:11; Hebrews 7:25.
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The focus: Let the whole Word of God govern your life
- The church’s focus should not be sensational news, promises of earthly wealth, or popular religious personalities. Its authority comes from the Lord and His Word.
- Jesus commanded His followers to teach people to observe everything He commanded. Sound doctrine requires the whole counsel of Scripture, not isolated verses used to support a preferred opinion.
- Beliefs, conduct, and personal convictions should have a biblical foundation. God’s Word must shape the heart and the outward life.
- Appreciate faithful spiritual examples, but know Christ and His Word for yourself. A faith sustained only by emotion or family tradition will not provide the stability that personal obedience brings.
Scriptures: Matthew 28:18–20; Isaiah 40:8; Psalms 119:11, Psalms 119:89; 1 Corinthians 11:1.
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The fame: Make room for the power of God
- By “fame,” Bro. Joe means the distinguishing signs of God’s presence—not the promotion of a preacher or a church’s reputation.
- Jesus connected the preaching of the gospel with signs following believers. Bro. Joe urges the church to continue believing in salvation, deliverance, the baptism of the Holy Ghost, and divine healing.
- The authority belongs to Jesus. Genuine spiritual power does not come from a minister’s name, human excitement, or manufactured displays.
- Faith does not mean tempting God. Bro. Joe explicitly rejects deliberately handling snakes or drinking poison. He also acknowledges that not everyone he has prayed for has been healed, while recounting instances he believes demonstrate God’s healing power.
Scriptures: Mark 16:15–18; Acts 28:3–6.
Closing challenge: Let God work in His church
Bro. Joe closes with testimonies of what he recounts as God’s healing and intervention. One concerns a child doctors did not expect to survive; he describes the family receiving encouragement that God had heard their prayers and later sending him pictures of the little girl.
The message moves into an invitation for those needing God’s help to come forward for prayer. Keep your confidence in Christ, bring your life under His Word, and remain open to the genuine working of the Holy Ghost. The church belongs to Jesus, and its power comes from Him.