Matthew 16:18
This one verse has been the source of endless debate between Catholics and other denominations. The fact is that there is really nothing to debate about. Jesus was not identifying Peter as the first Pope. He was teaching Peter and the others about the foundation of the church. The proceeding verse is the key. Jesus uses Peter’s regular name there. He makes a big deal out of what Peter had said.
It was this confession of faith in Christ that has Jesus’ attention at the moment. He wanted to explain to his disciples about how the church would be so strong. Good would reveal the Truth to many, just like Peter. The rock is Faith in Christ, or, literally, Christ himself.
For those who would say that the name Peter and the word rock are one and the same, we must remind all of the name Cephas. Cephas is what Jesus said when he referred to Peter in this passage. This name is translated to the Greek as petros, a rock. The word Jesus uses for rock is different. It is petra, the rock. Jesus is the Rock. The church is built upon faith in him.
This one verse has been the source of endless debate between Catholics and other denominations. The fact is that there is really nothing to debate about. Jesus was not identifying Peter as the first Pope. He was teaching Peter and the others about the foundation of the church. The proceeding verse is the key. Jesus uses Peter’s regular name there. He makes a big deal out of what Peter had said.
It was this confession of faith in Christ that has Jesus’ attention at the moment. He wanted to explain to his disciples about how the church would be so strong. Good would reveal the Truth to many, just like Peter. The rock is Faith in Christ, or, literally, Christ himself.
For those who would say that the name Peter and the word rock are one and the same, we must remind all of the name Cephas. Cephas is what Jesus said when he referred to Peter in this passage. This name is translated to the Greek as petros, a rock. The word Jesus uses for rock is different. It is petra, the rock. Jesus is the Rock. The church is built upon faith in him.
Bible Reading: Isaiah 6:1-10:34
Scripture Memory: 1 John 4:9 “In this was manifested the love of God towards us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and goodness. You gave us the ability to wake up this morning. You have kept us safe as we go about our day. Thank You for Your love! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Requests: Pray for a man getting a new job soon. Pray for a group of men trying to be a blessing to one man. Pray for the lost.
Journal Entry #13312