“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of death will not overcome it.” – Matthew 16:18

No doubt Peter and the disciples had few clues about the impact Jesus’ words would have on their lives, their ministries, and the future. Yet here we are. Nearly two thousand years have passed and the church that bears Jesus’ name and proclaims the redemption that Jesus won continues on.

Thirty-five years ago, in the summer of 1989, a few brave souls partnered with me to launch North River Community Church. Our first service was attended by 75 people. It was full of hope, built on a vision of reaching our unchurched friends, and it was bathed in prayer. Our start was humble and didn’t make a big splash. But we knew we were venturing out to engage in the one thing the Lord himself has given a God-back guarantee of his blessing.

The past thirty-five years have taught me that those who cling to Jesus’ vision, who declare his truth, and who call others to follow in his steps will experience the overcoming power that Jesus spoke about that day. Our story here at North River is just one example among many, showing how the Lord bestows a passionate vision that is backed by his power.

All of this raises a question? Why commit ourselves to a two thousand year-old idea? I’d like to offer a few reasons. First, embracing the church and its mission ties us to Jesus and to his vision. Second, this idea may be old, but it has an unbroken legacy of survival, growth and personal transformation stories despite repeated attempts to stamp out Christian faith. Third, embracing the mission of the church links us to great men and women of faith in the New Testament era, and through the two millennia that have followed. Fourth, being part of the church links us to promises that yet lay ahead of us, when people from every tongue and tribe will bow before Jesus and acknowledge him as God’s Messiah and as the Risen Lord.

I still get fired up by Jesus’ words. I just can’t get over them. I’m always looking for others who just can’t get over the visionary words of Jesus. Is that you?

Paul Atwater, Sr. Pastor

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