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NASB | Matthew 16:18 "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. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 16:18 "And I say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades (death) will not overpower it [by preventing the resurrection of the Christ]. [Eph 1:22; 4:15; 5:23; Col 1:18] |
Subject: What was Caesarea Philippi like? |
Bible Note: I don't think I am making the place too important. I know that can be done, but knowing the place can add to ones understanding. The Gospel writers mentioned Caesarea Philippi for a reason. And it was no mistake that Jesus says, "Gates of Hades" while there. After learning some of the history behind this city and what was going on in front of the "gates of Hades" (or underworld), it gave me a fuller picture of what Jesus was doing. It didn't change the meaning, but helped me see Jesus and His dicsiples better. Just ask, would your pastor still be a pastor if he took the youth of the church to a place like this? For many pastors, this act would have ended their ministry. And then Jesus says, "Who am I?" "On this rock I'll build by church." "The Gates of Hades (you see before you, and all that is associated with it) will not prevail." The contrasts and images are powerful and ADD to the readers understanding. They don't change it, or detract from it. MJH |