— Matthew chapter 16

Jesus announced to the apostles that He would build His church. Ekklesia is the term in the ancient Greek text, and does not mean a place or building. Rather ekklesia is defined as an assembly, gathering, congregation summoned out of the world for God’s out-of-this-world purpose.

Roman Catholics emphasize that Jesus identified Peter as the rock on which the church would be built. They claim Peter as the first leader of the church, and are currently electing their 267th Pope.

— Matthew chapter 28

The four New Testament Gospels record different accounts of the events following Jesus’ resurrection. Yet they share one purpose, to proclaim Jesus’ resurrection and announce that our material reality has been overthrown by God’s power and love.

The Gospel of Mark ends on Sunday morning. Three women run from Jesus’ empty tomb, fleeing an angel who told them, “He is risen!” Mark concludes, “Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.” Mark’s conclusion practically begs readers to ask what happened next.