Which biblical reference includes the command "I will build my church"?

The reference that includes the command "I will build my church" is found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in the sixteenth chapter. This statement is made by Jesus in response to Peter's declaration of Jesus' identity as the Messiah. The context of this passage highlights the foundation of the church being established on the truth of Jesus' identity, which underscores the significance of the church as a community of believers. This section emphasizes not just the promise of the church’s existence, but also its divine origin and purpose in fulfilling God's mission on Earth.

In contrast, the other options relate to different themes and teachings within the New Testament. Matthew 18 addresses issues of church discipline and community relationships, Luke 10 discusses the sending out of the seventy-two disciples and the mission of spreading the Gospel, and John 3 centers on the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus regarding new birth and eternal life. Each of these passages conveys important teachings but does not contain the specific declaration about building the church that is found in Matthew 16.