TEXT: Genesis 22:17
PREACHER: Pastor Bodunrin Timothy
In ancient times, city gates symbolized strength and authority. They were defensive structures that protected cities from invaders.
In the book of Luke 7:12 Jesus rescued the son of a Widow of Nain from untimely death at the gate. Why the gate?
The gate was a transition point between the living community and the burial site. Holding the procession there symbolized the separation of life and death.
According to the law of Moses in Numbers 19: 11-16 it is customary to carry the deceased out of the city to prevent ritual impurity
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus says, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.”
Jesus’s statement implies that the church, empowered by Him, will be on the offensive, storming the gates of Hades (evil and death) and triumphing over them.
This is a promise of the church’s indestructibility.
Jesus defeated the “gates of Hades” through His death and resurrection. This victory signifies His triumph over:
Sin (Isaiah 53:5, Romans 6:23)
Isaiah 53:5,
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
Romans 6:23
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The power of Satan ( Colossians 2:15)
Colossians 2:15
15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Death ( 1 Cor 15:55-57, Rev 1:18)
1 Cor 15:55-57,
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Rev 1:18
18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
STEPS TO POSSES THE GATE
Spiritual rebirth (John 3:3)
John 3:3
3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.