21 Days of Prayer for the Lost: Day 13

In this exchange between Jesus and Peter, we see a profound truth about the nature of saving faith: knowing who Jesus truly is comes by divine revelation, not human intuition. Peter recognized Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of the living God,” but Jesus immediately clarified that this understanding was not produced by Peter’s own insight—it was a gift from the Father.

This truth should shape how we think about sharing the gospel. We are not tasked with convincing people into the kingdom by the force of our arguments or the polish of our words. Only God can open spiritual eyes. Our role is to faithfully proclaim Christ; God’s role is to reveal Christ. This frees us from fear and pressure. Evangelism becomes an act of trust: we speak, and we pray—knowing the Father works through revelation.

Jesus then declares, “On this rock I will build my church.” The Church is built on the truth of who Jesus is, not on human leaders, cultural momentum, or persuasive personalities. Jesus Himself is the head and builder of the Church. Because of this, when we share the gospel, we partner in a work that Christ oversees. We aren’t expanding our kingdom; we are joining Him in expanding His. This gives us boldness. The success of the gospel does not rest on our abilities but on His authority.

Finally, Jesus promises that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” The Church will endure—not because Christians are strong, but because Christ is victorious. When we pray for the lost, we pray with hope. No heart is too hard, no sin too deep, no darkness too strong. The risen Christ has already overcome every barrier that stands against the advance of the gospel.

Let this passage encourage you to:

• Share the gospel confidently, knowing revelation comes from God.
• Rely on Jesus as the head of the Church, trusting Him to draw people to Himself.
• Pray boldly for the lost, convinced that nothing can withstand the saving power of Christ.
• Participate in the "Each One Win One" campaign.

Things to pray for today:

• Thank the Father for revealing His Son to you.
• Ask God to open the eyes of those who don’t know Him…yet!
• Pray for courage and compassion to share the gospel faithfully.

English Standard Version (ESV)
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.