Mat 16:18 | MHM | STEP | v. 18–19 : Jesus says to Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." Jesus is saying that Peter's confession of faith is the foundation of the church. Jesus promises that his church will stand strong, even against death and evil. He also gives Peter "the keys of the kingdom of heaven," meaning authority to teach and guide the church, especially in the early days. Jesus says, "Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven," showing the importance of spiritual leadership and making decisions in the church (Matthew 18:18 ).

‏ Matthew 16:18

v. 18–19: Jesus says to Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." Jesus is saying that Peter's confession of faith is the foundation of the church. Jesus promises that his church will stand strong, even against death and evil. He also gives Peter "the keys of the kingdom of heaven," meaning authority to teach and guide the church, especially in the early days. Jesus says, "Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven," showing the importance of spiritual leadership and making decisions in the church (Matthew 18:18 ^a).