Matthew 16:19

Remember the first time you were given the keys to the front door, the car, the vault? What power!

When Jewish scribes were fully trained and authorized to teach, their superiors gave them a key symbolizing their knowledge of God’s will. When Jesus placed keys into his disciples’ hands, they understood they were scribes in his kingdom. These keys are placed into the hands of Jesus’ followers today.

Two immediate implications come to mind:

1. Duty - To hold these keys is to hold responsibility. The teachings of Jesus are to be used in alignment with his heart, mind, and character. Feeling unqualified? Perfect - keep in mind the young and still-maturing disciples. It will keep you dependent on Jesus.

2. Access - While the scribes and Pharisees of Jesus’ day regularly and consistently closed off the entrance to the kingdom of heaven, we’re given a role in opening that entrance. Not only are his disciples not overcome by Hades’ gates, but instrumental in unlocking the gates to the kingdom.

Lord - Let us see with your eyes the awesome opening and shutting power of the Christian life, and go forth in the assurance of your presence in that endeavor.