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• Scripture: Ephesians 4:14, John 13:16, John 14:18; 26, John 16:13, Matthew 16:13-20, Matthew 18:18, Matthew 28:16-20

• Key Concepts

  • Jesus intentionally established the Church and gave Peter special authority to govern, which he passed down to successors in order to guide and govern the Church with the aid of the Holy Spirit.

  • The Church has been sent to all nations with the mission of making disciples. The Church exists to evangelize.

  • The Church is the universal sacrament of salvation. Its purpose is to lead people to heaven.

  Key Terms

  • Apostolic Mission: Just as He was sent by the Father, Jesus sent His apostles into the world to continue His saving mission. Thus, the Church is missionary by its very nature, continuing the mission, or work of Christ, through the Holy Spirit, according to the plan of God.

  • Disciples: Those who accepted Jesus’ message to follow Him. Jesus associated His disciples with His life, revealed the mystery of the Kingdom to the disciples, and gave them a share in His mission, joy, and suffering.

  • Sacrament: An efficacious sign of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Scripture Study

Read Matthew 16:13-20. Reflect on these questions, discuss with family or friends:

1. What stands out to you in this passage?

2. Peter confessed that Jesus was “the Son of God.” Who is Jesus to you?

3. If Jesus is the Son of God, how does that change the way you life?

4. What excuses do you make to avoid telling people about Jesus?

5. What is one way you can share Jesus with someone new this week?