Matthew 16:17-20 (KJV)
[17] And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. [18] And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [19] And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. [20] Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.
Perhaps one of the most often overlooked concepts, rather an important fact in the New Testament, concerns the apostle Peter, of whom the Christ said, "upon this rock I will build my church."
This scripture is where we find the first use of the word “church” in the New Testament, indeed, in the entire Bible. The word for "church" is the Greek word "Ekklesia."
Ekklesia, ek-klay-see'-ah; from a compound of Greek 1537 (ek) and a derivative of Greek 2564 (kaleo); a calling out, i.e. (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both) :- assembly, church.
Jesus in the same Scripture gave Peter "the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”
If Peter holds the keys to the kingdom, and Peter is the rock upon which Christ has built his Church, then it should become important for us to find out all we can about the apostle Peter and what Peter actually taught.
This article will uncover some of the keys to understanding Peter, and in doing so will provide a better grasp of what God wants us to do.
Peter is one of the apostles who best exemplifies the most human of traits. There is no doubt that the man had a great faith and a great love for Christ. There are many times in all of the gospel accounts where we can see Peter's zeal for Jesus, and yet at the same time experience his weakness and failing, moments of fear, anxiety, perhaps even at times, doubts.
Originally named Simon, he was a simple fisherman before Jesus came and promised to make him "a fisher of men."
Matthew 4:18-19 (KJV)
And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. [19] And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
The following passage in the book of Luke tells us a bit about the man and the heart of Simon.
Luke 5:1-11 (KJV)
And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon Him to hear the word of God, He stood by the lake of Gennesaret, [2] And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. [3] And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And He sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. [4] Now when He had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. [5] And Simon answering said unto Him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. [6] And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. [7] And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. [8] When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. [9] For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: [10] And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. [11] And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.
You can see that Simon at times wonders or even questions. It is clear from this scripture that Simon has much faith and he is obedient to the one he now calls his Master, not knowing much else about Jesus other than He is a great teacher at this point in time.
However after the great catch of the fish, Simon not only praises Jesus but falls down on his knees and pleads for Jesus to "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord."
It's clear that Simon was not only a man of much faith, but a man who understood himself and as well as the law of God, comprehending fully the idea of sin. Simon forthrightly claims to be a sinner before Jesus. Simon is instantly fearful of God and his own soul before this foreigner, a man whom has now appeared teaching great wisdom and working wonders before him.
In Simon we can witness an honest, contrite, repentant, man who fears God and has faith, at the same time a man who also reasons much like we do and marvels at wondrous things such as the catch of fish.
Note that after this, it states Simon and the others, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, "forsook all" and followed Jesus.
In the book of Matthew, chapter 14, we learn more about Simon and his faith.
Matthew 14:22-33 (KJV)
And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. [23] And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. [24] But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. [25] And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. [26] And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. [27] But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. [28] And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. [29] And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. [31] And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? [32] And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. [33] Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.
Once again Peter (Simon) has faith, but note he also has his own reasoning as he asks, addressing Him, "Lord if it be thou" or "if it is truly you?"
When Peter receives the affirmative and an invite to come to Him, Peter for the moment shows much faith as he walks out on the water. This act by Peter is contrary to normal reasoning of his mind. Very quickly, the reasoning of his mind takes place as if to know "wait a minute I'm walking on water..." as the elements of the surrounding world —whirling wind and water below him— causes fear and moment of lack of faith.
Peter therefore begins to sink, until he is caught by the hand of Jesus and held up— safe in his hand.
Once in the ship, Peter worships Jesus as the Son of God having now walked on water and seen many other miracles in his presence.
Note that Peter was the only one to call out to Jesus and the only one willing to take a step of faith, despite failing momentarily.
This next scripture in the Book of John illustrates that Peter was one of the few who had a strong faith in Christ, even at times when it might have seemed completely difficult to comprehend or understand according to reason.
John 6:53-71 (KJV)
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. [54] Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. [55] For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. [56] He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. [57] As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. [58] This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever. [59] These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. [60] Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? [61] When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? [62] What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? [63] It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. [64] But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. [65] And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.
[66] From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. [67] Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? [68] Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. [69] And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. [70] Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? [71] He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.
Note what Peter said and how many of the other disciples left, but his chosen twelve remained.
Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. [69] And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.
Though many were offended by this saying of Jesus, Peter and the other eleven (disciples) were not. Of all the twelve, Peter appears to speak for them with a strong faith. His responce to Jesus' question was to acknowedge Him as 'Lord," then replies "Where shall we go?" as if to say, without You, Lord, what are we, for "You have the words to eternal life" and "we believe and are sure" (convinced) that "You are the Christ" (our redeemer whom the scriptures we have all heard promised would one day would appear to save Israel from its sins) and "The Son of the living God."
The next scriptures illustrates some of the trials that Peter faced, and the witness of Peter as an eager student, or disciple, of Jesus.
Matthew 15:10-20 (KJV)
And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: [11] Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. [12] Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? [13] But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. [14] Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. [15] Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. [16] And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [17] Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? [18] But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. [19] For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: [20] These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.
This scripture shows that Peter wanted to learn. Peter was eager to understand and to know the wisdom or the parables that Jesus was teaching asking, "Declare unto us this parable."
Note also, that Jesus' response to Peter is not one that some might take without offense. Jesus replies to this request, Are ye also yet without understanding? as if Jesus' said 'Hello! Are You not listening to what I am saying, after I just spoke to these Pharisees!'
Yet Peter and his apostles are patient to learn and don't appear to take offense from this.
The next scripture shows how Peter after receiving what is a great honor, or a reward, is rebuked for his zeal.
Matthew 16:13-23 (KJV)
When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? [14] And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. [15] He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? [16] And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. [17] And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. [18] And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [19] And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. [20] Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.
[21] From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. [22] Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. [23] But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
Can you imagine how Peter must have felt, all of the emotions in him when this took place?
First, understand it was Simon who answered the question zealously and received a new name.
To receive a new name was a great honor and a change of his character, much like "Jacob," whom God changed to "Israel." Here, Simon has just been given the name "Peter" or in the Greek language "petros."
Petros, pet'-ros; apparently a primary word; a (piece of) rock (larger than Greek 3037 (lithos)); as a name, Petrus, an apostle :- Peter, rock. Compare Greek 2786 (Kephas).
Kephas, kay-fas'; of Chaldee origin [compare Hebrew 3710 (keph)]; the Rock; Cephas (i.e. Kepha), a surname of Peter :- Cephas.
Also note the usage of "the rock" is something only used in Old Testament as the Rock of Salvation of almighty God. This is the same Highly bestowed name Jesus has just given Peter.
He says of Peter, "upon this rock" Christ will build his "church," His assembly of called out ones (Ekklesia).
He also sates "I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
So naturally Peter must be amazed, or in awe, perhaps happy. It's not made known in the text, so we can can only assume how one of us might respond to this.
Then after Jesus unveils what has been prophesied to take place to Him, Peter with great zeal and love for his master says not so Lord, I will not let that happen to You.
[22] Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
So Jesus turns to Peter says something probably that nobody would expect:
"Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men."
Peter must have been stunned, or confused, being called "Satan" and being told you are "an offence."
It shows a side of Peter's ability to be humble at the same time zealous for His Lord and able to obey.
None the less, the Scriptures show that Peter continued to be very loyal to Jesus and in a few passages later is again presented with Jesus during His transfiguration.
Matthew 17:1-8 (KJV)
And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, [2] And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. [3] And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. [4] Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. [5] While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. [6] And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. [7] And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. [8] And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.
Again, Peter here is zealous for his Lord and wants to serve to him, and this time with Moses and Elijah, to create tabernacles for all three. This is Peter's reaction to this amazing happening. He could have just been in awe and stood there doing nothing.
This time, Peter is again silenced by the voice of God saying "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him." When Peter and other two heard it, they were so afraid they fell in reverence with the fear of God in them all. They did not rise until being touched by Jesus, who is then the only one left among them.
The next Scriptures shows that Peter was always looking to learn from Jesus. This scripture appears to speak of a lesson about the payment of taxes.
Matthew 17:24-27 (KJV)
And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? [25] He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? [26] Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. [27] Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Another example of the apostles seeking for answers.
Mark 13:1-5 (KJV)
And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here! [2] And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. [3] And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, [4] Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled? [5] And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:
While Peter, along with the other disciples, are taught the parables and their meanings by Jesus, it is Peter who always asks for more information or more details.
Matthew 18:21-22 (KJV)
Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? [22] Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
The following scripture shows the reasoning of Peter.
Matthew 19:23-30 (KJV)
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. [24] And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. [25] When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? [26] But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
[27] Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? [28] And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. [29] And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. [30] But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.
Peter is wondering about the reward for his obedience.
Much like many Christians today, Peter here is hoping this means reward for their obedience and loyalty.
This reflects the same idea that many Christians today share, that we are already fulfilling what is necessary to be done for salvation, or to be "saved."
Peter says "We already have forsaken all we have and followed thee," so what will our reward be for this?
The following is another example of the ignorance of Peter not understanding at the time what was going on.
Luke 8:45 (KJV)
And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?
This particular passage of scripture is about a woman who comes up behind Jesus touches his garment believing in faith, that if she touched but only the hem of his garment, she would be made whole of her affliction.
It was her faith (in Christ) that has made her whole.
The next passage illustrates the zeal Peter has and again, the ignorance of the situation as all like to think we can be the most loyal at times and not fail our Lord.
Matthew 26:31-35 (KJV)
Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. [32] But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. [33] Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. [34] Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. [35] Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.
The Gospel of Mark shows the anguish, zeal and love of the disciples, particularly Peter.
Mark 14:29-31 (KJV)
But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I. [30] And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. [31] But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.
In this same narrative in the book of Luke, we learn that Peter was to be targeted by Satan, sifted "as wheat."
His trials were about to begin. Peter boasts zealously claiming for his Lord that he will not deny Him and is ready to go with Jesus, even die for him.
Luke 22:31-34 (KJV)
And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: [32] But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. [33] And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death. [34] And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.
The book of John further shows Peter's love, and his thinking, and reaction to hearing Jesus revelation of His pending exodus.
John 13:36-14:4 (KJV)
Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. [37] Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. [38] Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice.
[14:1] Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. [2] In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. [4] And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
Despite these zealous displays, Peter falls far short of his promises.
Before looking at Peter's failures, note that Peter is given many times a very close or 'intimate relationship with Jesus' (as is often describe by pastors today). Much like Peter, the two brothers James and John were also overly zealous for their Lord.
Matthew 26:36-37 (KJV)
Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. [37] And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
It's in the book of John, more so than any other of the Gospels, that Peter's personal relationship with Christ is really illustrated.
In the following scriptures, Peter actually protests to Jesus because he feels that his master, his Lord, should not wash his feet.
But note how Peter quickly realizes, if it must be so, that he fully wants all the more—not just his feet washed.
John 13:5-17 (KJV)
After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. [6] Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? [7] Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. [8] Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. [9] Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. [10] Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. [11] For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. [12] So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? [13] Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. [14] If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. [15] For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. [16] Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. [17] If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
This scripture is a perfect shadow of "baptism."
How fitting that Peter was the rock on which "the church" was built, yet many in the church today protest this very concept of water baptism being necessary to one's salvation.
Yet Peter, who holds the keys of the kingdom, clearly obeyed and submitted to what ever Jesus demanded or commanded when HE said, "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me."
Peter not only submits, but humbles himself to obey his Lord's commandments.
Note also that Jesus states the following
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. [16] Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. [17] If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
The example was not only the idea of serving one's fellow man or washing one's feet —a custom in practice since Abraham— but also to understand the importance of Baptism as it relates to being washed of one sins and communing with Christ when HE said, "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me."
There are some other instances where the flesh clearly took over. The first failure on Peter's part is one of the flesh the physical need for sleep.
Matthew 26:40-41 (KJV)
And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? [41] Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
The following scriptures describe the scene of Jesus' arrest.
Note what happens and how Peter reacts.
Matthew 26:50-58 (KJV)
And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him. [51] And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear. [52] Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. [53] Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? [54] But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be? [55] In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me. [56] But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
[57] And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. [58] But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.
While it's not mentioned in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke which disciple cuts off the ear, it is possible it could have been Peter, knowing the love and zeal that Peter had for his Lord.
Having not a memory of this scripture, I soon realized I was correct. In the book of John you will learn that it was in fact Peter.
John 18:10-12 (KJV)
Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus. [11] Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it? [12] Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,
Peter did keep his word, as he was certainly willing to risk his own life defending his master.
While Peter has shown zeal in this very act, he also shows that he has for the moment allowed the world atmosphere to take over his thinking— forgetting for the moment, all the miracles and ultimate power this man, the Christ, the Son of God.
Peter therefore reacts resorting to a sword and cutting off the ear of one of the high priest's servants.
Of all the disciples, only a few are mentioned actually following after Jesus. Peter is the one, the most prominently mentioned.
Despite all his zeal, Peter, too, is only able to withstand so much, and fails on his promises to not betray his Lord.
Mark 14:66-72 (KJV)
And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest: [67] And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth. [68] But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew. [69] And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them. [70] And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto. [71] But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak. [72] And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.
Luke shows that Peter not only fails, but he is witnessed by Jesus himself who looks upon Peter —more than likely with much compassion knowing what was to happen to be fulfilled in His Words.
Luke 22:56-62 (KJV)
But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him. [57] And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not. [58] And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. [59] And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean. [60] And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. [61] And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. [62] And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.
John 18:17-18 (KJV)
Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this man's disciples? He saith, I am not. [18] And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.
John 18:25-27 (KJV)
And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it, and said, I am not. [26] One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him? [27] Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crew.
This anguish must have been unbearable for Peter, as he just denied and betrayed the one he loves and has forsaken his Lord. The scriptures state he wept bitterly and left the hall.
The next time the scriptures speak of Peter is in the day that the Christ has arisen from the dead after His crucifixion and burial three days in the grave.
Looking at those scriptures note that the angel appearing at the tomb specifically singles out Peter.
Mark 16:6-8 (KJV)
And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. [7] But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you. [8] And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.
In the book of Luke we learn that Peter was one of the first who reacted in faith and belief when told that Jesus was arisen.
Luke 24:1-12 (KJV)
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. [2] And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. [3] And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. [4] And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: [5] And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? [6] He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, [7] Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. [8] And they remembered his words, [9] And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. [10] It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. [11] And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. [12] Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.
Note it was only Peter who was first moved to investigate these claims.
At the sepulchre Peter is in awe. His Messiah truly has risen and is not there!
The book of John gives one the most detailed of this encounter.
John 20:1-10 (KJV)
The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. [2] Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him. [3] Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre. [4] So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. [5] And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in. [6] Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, [7] And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. [8] Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed. [9] For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead. [10] Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.
After Jesus appeared to the disciples, there is an odd incident illustrated. It appears that even after Christ is risen, His disciples are not sure what do of all this. Peter reverts back into the world.
He says to his friends the other disciples, "I'm going fishing," and they follow him.
John 21:1-11 (KJV)
After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself. [2] There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. [3] Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing. [4] But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. [5] Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. [6] And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. [7] Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea. [8] And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes. [9] As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread. [10] Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. [11] Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, a hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.
Peter's reaction to hearing that the Lord has just appeared, is perhaps one of shame. He is actually has been fishing as scripture stated "naked."
Peter therefore cast himself into the sea. One could say perhaps this was to hide himself or perhaps to cleanse or clean himself as he might have felt unworthy to be seen or to appear before the Lord, the Christ.
What follows next is equally amazing, Peter is tested by the Lord.
John 21:12-19 (KJV)
Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. [13] Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise. [14] This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
[15] So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. [16] He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. [17] He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. [18] Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. [19] This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
This scripture is most interesting, because in English it looks like Jesus is asking "do you love me more than these?" But the English does not capture what the word "love" in these scriptures is actually saying.
Jesus is asking Peter "agapao" which mean to be loved in general wider sense.
agapao, ag-ap-ah'-o; perhaps from agan (much) [or compare Hebrew 5689 (`agab)]; to love (in a social or moral sense) :- (be-) love (-ed). Compare Greek 5368 (phileo).
Peter replies back in the affirmative with "Phileo" meaning 'I love you as my dear friend.'
phileo, fil-eh'-o; from Greek 5384 (philos); to be a friend to (fond of [an individual or an object]), i.e. have affection for (denoting personal attachment, as a matter of sentiment or feeling; while Greek 25 (agapao) is wider, embracing especially the judgment and the deliberate assent of the will as a matter of principle, duty and propriety: the two thus stand related very much as Greek 2309 (thelo) and Greek 1014 (boulomai), or as Greek 2372 (thumos) and Greek 3563 (nous) respectively; the former being chiefly of the heart and the latter of the head); specially to kiss (as a mark of tenderness) :- kiss, love.
Then Jesus replies the command "feed my sheep."
Jesus asked Peter again Agapao? and again Peter replies with Phileo.
John 21:16 (KJV)
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
Finally Jesus asks Peter again, but this time with Phileo and when Peter answers Him again in Phileo. JESUS says "feed my sheep" a third time.
Peter clearly has shown that he loves the Lord as his friend he has faith and he has received a commandment from Christ three times to feed his sheep.
Jesus is essentially saying to Peter If you love me, Feed my sheep (My people Israel).
Jesus then tells Peter something alluding to Peter's future and commands him to follow after Him signifying taking up His cross.
John 21:18-25 (KJV)
Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. [19] This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me. [20] Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? [21] Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? [22] Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me. [23] Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? [24] This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true. [25] And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.
The last line of the Book of John shows again Peter's awe and unawareness of the great commission he will undertake.
This concludes Part 1 of the apostle Peter: the man with the keys to the kingdom of heaven.
The second part of this study will focus on what Peter taught having learned living in a close relationship with Jesus.
This study will continue in the book of Acts (of the apostles) where Peter used the Keys to the Kingdom, and began the Church of Christ as it is known the world over today.