Build Your Church (feat. Maverick City)

“Build Your Church (feat. Maverick City)” by Elevation Worship is a powerful anthem that emphasizes the strength and resilience of the Christian faith. The song opens with a declaration that Christ alone is the cornerstone, the essential foundation upon which the church is built. This imagery of a cornerstone is deeply rooted in Christian theology, symbolizing Jesus as the essential and unmovable base of the faith. The lyrics reject other foundations such as philosophy or human wisdom, emphasizing that all other ground is 'sinking sand,' a metaphor for instability and unreliability.

The chorus reinforces the idea that the church, built upon this rock, will withstand any adversity, including the 'gates of hell.' This phrase is a biblical reference from Matthew 16:18, where Jesus tells Peter that the gates of hell will not overcome the church. The song speaks to the authority given to believers to 'bind and loose,' which means to forbid and permit, further emphasizing the power and responsibility bestowed upon the church. The repeated assertion that 'we will never fail' serves as a rallying cry for believers, instilling confidence and determination.

The latter part of the song shifts focus to the mission of the church. It speaks of the beauty of those who carry the gospel, encouraging believers to keep walking, preaching, and teaching. This call to action underscores the church's role in spreading the message of Christ to the nations. The repetition of 'the gates of hell will not prevail' serves as a reminder of the church's enduring strength and divine protection. The song concludes with a sense of mission and purpose, urging believers to continue their work with confidence and faith, knowing that their efforts are part of a larger, divine plan.