Reference: Peter
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This name in Greek signifies a rock, as does also the name Cephas in Syriac. Peter was one of the twelve apostles, and was also called Simon, Mt 16:17, and Simeon, Ac 15:14. He was of Bethsaida, and was the son of Jonas, a fisherman, which occupation he also followed. After his marriage he resided at Capernaum, Mt 8:14; Lu 4:38, though called at a later period to labor else where as an apostle, and it would seem often accompanied in his journeys by his wife, 1Co 9:5. When first introduced to Jesus by his brother Andrew, he received from Him the name of Peter, Joh 1:42, probably in reference to the boldness and firmness of his character, and his activity in promoting his Master's cause. He received his second call, and began to accompany Christ, at the Sea of Galilee near his residence, and thenceforth learned to be a "fisher of men," Mt 4:18-20; Lu 5:1-11. Many remarkable incidents are recorded in the gospels, which illustrate his character. Among these are, his attempt to walk on the water to meet Christ, Mt 14:29; his avowal of the Messiahship and divinity of the Savior, Mt 16:16; his errors as to the design of Christ's incarnation,
Mt 16:22-23; his warm attachment to the divine Teacher, Joh 6:67-69; his cutting off the ear of Malchus, Joh 18:10; his boastful determination to adhere to his Master under all circumstances, and his subsequent denial of Him with oaths, Mt 26:74; Mr 14:29; Joh 13:37-38; his poignant repentance, Mt 26:75, and our Lord's forgiveness, after receiving an assurance of his love, which was thrice uttered as his denial of Christ had been, Joh 21:15-18. The death and resurrection of Christ, and the circumstances, which accompanied them, led to a wonderful change in the apostle's mind, and thenceforward his bold and steadfast course is worthy of his name. On the day of Pentecost, he was one of the principal witnesses for the Savior; in company with John he soon after healed a lame man at the temple gate, addressed the assembled crowd, was imprisoned, and fearlessly vindicated himself before the Sanhedrin, Ac 4:8-21. We find him afterwards denouncing the judgment of God on a guilty couple who had dared to lie to the Holy Ghost, Ac 5:1-11; visiting Samaria, and rebuking Simon the magician, Ac 8:5-24; healing Eneas and raising Dorcas to life at Lydda, Ac 9:32-43; seeing at Joppa a vision which prepared him to preach the gospel to the gentile Cornelius, Ac 10; imprisoned by Herod Agrippa, and delivered by an angel, Ac 12:3-19; and taking a part in the council at Jerusalem, Ac 15:7-11. The Bible gives us little information as to his subsequent labors; but it is probable that the three apostles who were most distinguished by the Savior while upon earth continues to be favored as chief instruments in advancing his cause. Paul speaks of "James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars," Ga 2:9. Yet in the same chapter we find him publicly reproving Peter for his wavering course in respect to the demands of Judaizing Christians, which he had been one of the first to repel at Jerusalem, Ac 15:9. He seems to have labored at Corinth, 1Co 1:12; 3:22, and at Babylon, 1Pe 5:13. Papal writers affirm that he was the bishop of Rome. But the evidence is strongly against this assertion. Paul wrote to the Roman Christians, giving them directions and saluting the principal persons by name; he also wrote six letters from Rome; but in none of these letters, nor in the narrative in Acts, is there the slightest intimation that Peter was or had been at Rome. And as Peter never resided at Rome, he was never made the head of the church universal. Whatever honor and authority he received from Christ, in establishing the first institutions of Christianity and declaring what it enjoined and from what it released, Mt 16:18-19, the other apostles also received, Mt 18:18; Joh 20:23; 5/3/type/anderson'>1Co 5:3,5; Eph 2:20; Re 21:14. There is no evidence that he had any supremacy over them, nor that he had any successor in that influence which was naturally accorded to him as one of the oldest, most active, and most faithful of those who had "seen the Lord".
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And as he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishers. And he said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. read more. And they immediately left their nets and followed him.
And when Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying, and ill of a fever.
And he said: Come. And Peter went down from the ship, and walked upon the water to go to Jesus.
Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said to him: Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. read more. And I say to you, That you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church: and the gates of hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you shall bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you shall loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.
And Peter took him and began to rebuke him, saying: Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be to thee. But he turned and said to Peter: Get behind me, adversary; you are a snare to me: for you are not thinking of the things of God; but of the things of men.
Verily, I say to you, my disciples, Whatever you bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.
Then he began to curse and to swear, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word which. Jesus had spoken to him: Before the cock crows, you will deny me three times. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And he arose and went out of the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simon's mother-in-law was confined with a violent fever: and they besought him in her behalf.
And it came to pass while the multitude was pressing on him to hear the word of God, and he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, that he saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets. read more. And he entered one of the ships, which was Simon s, and requested him to push out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitude from the ship. And when he had made an end of speaking, he said to Simon: Push out into the deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answered and said to him: Master, we have toiled all night and have caught nothing; but at thy command, I will let down the net. And when they had done this, they inclosed a great number of fishes, and their net began to break; and they beckoned to their partners who were in the other ship, to come and help them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. And when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at the knees of Jesus, and said: Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For amazement at the draught of fishes which they had caught had seized upon him and all that were with him; and in like manner also upon James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon: Fear not; from this time forth you shall catch men. And when they had brought their ships to the land, they left all and followed him.
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
Then Jesus said to the twelve: Will you also go away? Simon Peter answered him: Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life; read more. and we believe, and know that thou art the Christ, the Son of God.
Peter said to him: Lord, why can I not follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thee. Jesus answered him: Will you lay down your life for me? Verily, verily I say to you, the cock will not crow till you have denied me three times.
Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, and struck the servant of the chief priest, and cut off his right ear. The name of the servant was Malchus.
Whosever sins you forgive, they are forgiven them: whosever sins you retain, they are retained.
When, therefore, they had taken breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter: Simon, son of Jonah, Do you love me more than these? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Feed my lambs. He said to him again a second time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Be a shepherd to my sheep. read more. He said to him a third time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Do you love me? And he said to him: Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus said to him: Feed my sheep. Verily, verily I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself, and walked whither you chose; but when you have become old, you shall stretch forth your hands, and another shall gird you, and lead you whither you would not.
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: Rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, if we are this day examined with respect unto the good deed done to the infirm man, by what means he has been saved, read more. be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him does this man stand before you in health. This is the stone that was rejected with contempt by you builders, which has become the head of the corner. And there is salvation in no other; nor, indeed, is there another name under heaven, given among men, by which we must be saved. Now, when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and plain men, they were astonished; and they also recognized them, that they had been with Jesus; and, seeing the man who had been cured standing with them, they had nothing to say in reply. But, having commanded them to go aside out of the Sanhedrin, they consulted with one another, saying: What shall we do with these men? For that an evident sign has been done by them, is manifest to all that dwell in Jerusalem, and we can not deny it. But that it may spread no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, so that they speak no more to any man in this name. And they called them in, and commanded them to speak no more at all, nor to teach, in the name of Jesus. Bat Peter and John answering them, said: Whether it is right in the sight of God to obey you rather than God, judge you. For we can not but speak the things that we have seen and heard. And when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing for which they could punish them, because of the people; for they all glorified God on ac count of that which had been done;
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, and kept back part of the price, and his wife was conscious of it; and he brought a certain part of it, and laid it at the feet of the apostles. read more. But Peter said: Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart, that you should at tempt to deceive the Holy Spirit, and keep back part of the price of the land? While it remained unsold, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your own disposal? Why have you purposed this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men, but to God. And when Ananias heard these words, he fell down, and expired. And great fear came on all that heard these things. And the young men arose and wound him in his mantle, and carried him out, and buried him. And after an interval of about three hours, his wife, not knowing what had been done, came in. And Peter answered her: Tell me, did you sell the land for so much? She replied: Yes; for so much. But Peter said to her: Why is it that you have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they shall carry you out. And she immediately fell down at his feet, and expired. And the young men came in and found her dead; and they carried her out, and buried her by the side of her husband. And great fear came on all the church, and on all that heard these things.
And Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached the Christ to them. And the multitudes with one mind gave heed to the things which were spoken by Philip, when they heard, and saw the signs which he did. read more. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them, and many paralytics and lame per sons were cured. And there was great joy in that city. But there was a certain man, named Simon, who had, be fore this time, been practicing magic in the city, and astonishing the people of Samaria, saying that he was some great one; to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying: This man is the great power of God. And they gave heed to him because he had, for a long time, astonished them with his magic arts. But when they believed Philip, who preached the good news concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were immersed, both men and women. And Simon himself also believed; and after he was immersed, he continued with Philip; and, seeing the mighty deeds and the signs which were done, he was astonished. Now when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John; who, when they had gone down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For he had not yet fallen on any of them; only they had been immersed into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the hands of the apostles, he offered them money, saying: Give me, also, this authority, that who ever I shall lay my hands on, may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him: Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God might be purchased with money. You have neither part nor share in this matter; for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent, there fore, of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the purpose of your heart may be forgiven you. For I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. But Simon answered and said: Pray you both to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken come upon me.
And it came to pass that Peter, passing through all the places, came down also to the saints that dwelt in Lydda. And he found there a certain man named Aeneas, who was a paralytic, and had kept his bed for eight years. read more. And Peter said to him: Aeneas, Jesus the Christ restores you to health; arise, and spread your bed for yourself. And he immediately arose; and all that dwelt in Lydda and Saron saw him; and they turned to the Lord. Now there was in Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which name, when translated, is Dorcas. She was full of good works and deeds of charity which she did. And it came to pass, in those days, that she was taken sick, and died. And when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And as Lydda was near to Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, requesting him to make no delay in coming to them. Then Peter arose, and went with them; and when he had come, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all out, and kneeled down and prayed; and turning to the body, he said: Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and raised her up. And when he had called in the saints and the widows, he presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. And it came to pass, that he remained many days in Joppa with one Simon, a tanner.
And when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he apprehended Peter also. Those were the days of unleavened bread. And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four tetrads of soldiers to guard him, intending to bring him out to the people after the passover. read more. Therefore, Peter was kept in prison; but fervent prayer to God was made for him by the church. When Herod was about to bring him out, on that night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains; and the keepers before the doors were guarding the prison. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison. And he gently struck Peter on the side, and awoke him, saying: Arise quickly; and his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him: Gird your self, and bind on your sandals; and he did so. And he said to him: Throw your mantle around you, and follow me. And he went out, and followed him; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought that he saw a vision. And when they had passed through the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord. And they went out, and passed on through one street; and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter came to himself, he said: Now I know, in truth, that the Lord has sent his angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod, and from all that was expected by the Jewish people. And being aware of his condition, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, who is surnamed Mark, where many had met together, and were praying. And when he knocked at the door of the entrance, a maidservant, named Rhoda, came to listen. And recognizing Peter's voice, she did not open the entrance for joy, but ran in and told that Peter was standing before the entrance. And they said to her: You are mad. But she confidently affirmed that it was even so. Then said hey: It is his angel. But Peter continued to knock; and when they had opened the door, they saw him, and were astonished. But, having made a sign to them with his hand, that they should keep silence, he made known to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison, and he said: Tell this to James, and to the brethren. And he went out, and departed to another place. And when it was day, there was no little confusion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. But Herod, when he had sought for him, and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded them to be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Cesarean, and there he remained.
And after there had been much disputing, Peter arose, and said to them: Brethren, you know that, at the beginning, God made choice among us, that, by my mouth, the Gentiles should hear the word of the Gospel, and believe. And God, who knows the heart, became a witness for them, by giving them the Holy Spirit, as he gave it also to us; read more. and he made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.
and he made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now, therefore, why do you put God to the proof, by placing a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers, nor we ourselves, were able to bear? read more. But we believe that we shall be saved, even as they, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Simeon has declared how God, at the first, did visit the Gentiles, in order to take out from among them a people for his name.
I mean this: that each one of you says, I am of Paul, and I of Apollos, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ.
whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are yours:
Have we not the right to lead about a sister wife, as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
and knowing the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles, but they to the circumcision,
having been builded upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone,
The church in Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you, and so does Marcus my son.
And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
Easton
originally called Simon (=Simeon ,i.e., "hearing"), a very common Jewish name in the New Testament. He was the son of Jona (Mt 16:17). His mother is nowhere named in Scripture. He had a younger brother called Andrew, who first brought him to Jesus (Joh 1:40-42). His native town was Bethsaida, on the western coast of the Sea of Galilee, to which also Philip belonged. Here he was brought up by the shores of the Sea of Galilee, and was trained to the occupation of a fisher. His father had probably died while he was still young, and he and his brother were brought up under the care of Zebedee and his wife Salome (Mt 27:56; Mr 15:40; 16:1). There the four youths, Simon, Andrew, James, and John, spent their boyhood and early manhood in constant fellowship. Simon and his brother doubtless enjoyed all the advantages of a religious training, and were early instructed in an acquaintance with the Scriptures and with the great prophecies regarding the coming of the Messiah. They did not probably enjoy, however, any special training in the study of the law under any of the rabbis. When Peter appeared before the Sanhedrin, he looked like an "unlearned man" (Ac 4:13).
Simon was a Galilean, and he was that out and out...The Galileans had a marked character of their own. They had a reputation for an independence and energy which often ran out into turbulence. They were at the same time of a franker and more transparent disposition than their brethren in the south. In all these respects, in bluntness, impetuosity, headiness, and simplicity, Simon was a genuine Galilean. They spoke a peculiar dialect. They had a difficulty with the guttural sounds and some others, and their pronunciation was reckoned harsh in Judea. The Galilean accent stuck to Simon all through his career. It betrayed him as a follower of Christ when he stood within the judgment-hall (Mr 14:70). It betrayed his own nationality and that of those conjoined with him on the day of Pentecost (Ac 2:7). It would seem that Simon was married before he became an apostle. His wife's mother is referred to (Mt 8:14; Mr 1:30; Lu 4:38). He was in all probability accompanied by his wife on his missionary journeys (1Co 9:5; comp. 1Pe 5:13).
He appears to have been settled at Capernaum when Christ entered on his public ministry, and may have reached beyond the age of thirty. His house was large enough to give a home to his brother Andrew, his wife's mother, and also to Christ, who seems to have lived with him (Mr 1:29,36; 2:1), as well as to his own family. It was apparently two stories high (Mr 2:4).
At Bethabara (R.V., Joh 1:28, "Bethany"), beyond Jordan, John the Baptist had borne testimony concerning Jesus as the "Lamb of God" (Joh 1:29-36). Andrew and John hearing it, followed Jesus, and abode with him where he was. They were convinced, by his gracious words and by the authority with which he spoke, that he was the Messiah (Lu 4:22; Mt 7:29); and Andrew went forth and found Simon and brought him to Jesus (Joh 1:41).
Jesus at once recognized Simon, and declared that hereafter he would be called Cephas, an Aramaic name corresponding to the Greek Petros, which means "a mass of rock detached from the living rock." The Aramaic name does not occur again, but the name Peter gradually displaces the old name Simon, though our Lord himself always uses the name Simon when addressing him (Mt 17:25; Mr 14:37; Lu 22:31, comp. Mt 21:15-17). We are not told what impression the first interview with Jesus produced on the mind of Simon. When we next meet him it is by the Sea of Galilee (Mt 4:18-22). There the four (Simon and Andrew, James and John) had had an unsuccessful night's fishing. Jesus appeared suddenly, and entering into Simon's boat, bade him launch forth and let down the nets. He did so, and enclosed a great multitude of fishes. This was plainly a miracle wrought before Simon's eyes. The awe-stricken disciple cast himself at the feet of Jesus, crying, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord" (Lu 5:8). Jesus addressed him with the assuring words, "Fear not," and announced to him his life's work. Simon responded at once to the call to become a disciple, and after this we find him in constant attendance on our Lord.
He is next called into the rank of the apostleship, and becomes a "fisher of men" (Mt 4:19) in the stormy seas of the world of human life (Mt 10:2-4; Mr 3:13-19; Lu 6:13-16), and takes a more and more prominent part in all the leading events of our Lord's life. It is he who utters that notable profession of faith at Capernaum (Joh 6:66-69), and again at Caesarea Philippi (Mt 16:13-20; Mr 8:27-30; Lu 9:18-20). This profession at Caesarea was one of supreme importance, and our Lord in response used these memorable words: "Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church."
From that time forth Jesus began to speak of his sufferings. For this Peter rebuked him. But our Lord in return rebuked Peter, speaking to him in sterner words than he ever used to any other of his disciples (Mt 16:21-23; Mr 8:31-33). At the close of his brief sojourn at Caesarea our Lord took Peter and James and John with him into "an high mountain apart," and was transfigured before them. Peter on that occasion, under the impression the scene produced on his mind, exclaimed, "Lord, it is good for us to be here: let us make three tabernacles" (Mt 17:1-9).
On his return to Capernaum the collectors of the temple tax (a didrachma, half a sacred shekel), which every Israelite of twenty years old and upwards had to pay (Ex 30:15), came to Peter and reminded him that Jesus had not paid it (Mt 17:24-27). Our Lord instructed Peter to go and catch a fish in the lake and take from its mouth the exact amount needed for the tax, viz., a stater, or two half-shekels. "That take," said our Lord, "and give unto them for me and thee."
As the end was drawing nigh, our Lord sent Peter and John (Lu 22:7-13) into the city to prepare a place where he should keep the feast with his disciples. There he was forewarned of the fearful sin into which he afterwards fell (Lu 22:31-34). He accompanied our Lord from the guest-chamber to the garden of Gethsemane (Lu 22:39-46), which he and the other two who had been witnesses of the transfiguration were permitted to enter with our Lord, while the rest were left without. Here he passed through a strange experience. Under a sudden impulse he cut off the ear of Malchus (Lu 22:47-51), one of the band that had come forth to take Jesus. Then follow the scenes of the judgment-hall (Lu 22:54-61) and his bitter grief ([luke 22:62|).
He is found in John's company early on the morning of the resurrection. He boldly entered into the empty grave (Joh 20:1-10), and saw the "linen clothes laid by themselves" (Lu 24:9-12). To him, the first of the apostles, our risen Lord revealed himself, thus conferring on him a signal honour, and showing how fully he was restored to his favour (Lu 24:34; 1Co 15:5). We next read of our Lord's singular interview with Peter on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, where he thrice asked him, "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?" (Joh 21:1-19). (See Love.)
After this scene at the lake we hear nothing of Peter till he again appears with the others at the ascension (Ac 1:15-26). It was he who proposed that the vacancy caused by the apostasy of Judas should be filled up. He is prominent on the day of Pentecost (Ac 2:14-40). The events of that day "completed the change in Peter himself which the painful discipline of his fall and all the lengthened process of previous training had been slowly making. He is now no more the unreliable, changeful, self-confident man, ever swaying between rash courage and weak timidity, but the stead-fast, trusted guide and director of the fellowship of believers, the intrepid preacher of Christ in Jerusalem and abroad. And now that he is become Cephas indeed, we hear almost nothing of the name Simon (only in Ac 10:5,32; 15:14), and he is known to us finally as Peter."
After the miracle at the temple gate (Ac 3) persecution arose against the Christians, and Peter was cast into prison. He boldly defended himself and his companions at the bar of the council (Ac 4:19-20). A fresh
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And as he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishers. And he said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.
And he said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they immediately left their nets and followed him. read more. And going on thence, he saw other two brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.
for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.
And when Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying, and ill of a fever.
Now these are the names of the twelve apostles: the first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphseus, and Lebbceus, who was surnamed Thaddaeus; read more. Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also delivered him up.
When Jesus came into the regions of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying: Who do men say that I, the Son of man, am? They replied: Some say that thou art John the Immerser; others, Elijah; others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. read more. He said to them: But who say you that I am? Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said to him: Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
And Jesus answered and said to him: Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I say to you, That you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church: and the gates of hades shall not prevail against it. read more. And I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you shall bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you shall loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. Then he charged his disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. From that time Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly, that he must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders, and the chief priests, and the scribes, and be put to death, and be raised again the third day. And Peter took him and began to rebuke him, saying: Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be to thee. But he turned and said to Peter: Get behind me, adversary; you are a snare to me: for you are not thinking of the things of God; but of the things of men.
And after six days, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up into a high mountain apart: and he was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his clothing was white as the light. read more. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter answered and said to Jesus: Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, let us make here three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. While he was yet speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and lo, a voice from the cloud, saying: This is my beloved Son, in whom I delight; hear him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were greatly afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said: Arise and be not afraid. And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying: Tell the vision to no one, till the Son of man has risen from the dead.
And when they had come into Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma came to Peter, and said: Does not your teacher pay the didrachma? He said: Yes. And when he had come into the house, before he had spoken, Jesus said to him: What think you, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect tax or tribute? From their own sons, or from the sons of others?
He said: Yes. And when he had come into the house, before he had spoken, Jesus said to him: What think you, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect tax or tribute? From their own sons, or from the sons of others? Peter said to him: From the sons of others. Jesus said to him: Then are their own sons free. read more. But that we may give them no offense, go to the sea, and throw in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first; and when you have opened his mouth, you will find a stater; take that, and give to them for me and you.
But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the son of David, their anger was aroused, and they said to him: Do you not hear what these say? And Jesus said to them: Yes; have you never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise? read more. And he left them, and went out of the city to Bethany, and there spent the night.
Among these was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
And forthwith, having gone out of the synagogue, they went into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now the mother-in-law of Simon lay sick of a fever. And at once they told him of her.
And again he entered Capernaum, after some days; and they heard that he was in the house.
And not being able to come near him, on account of the multitude, they took off the roof where he was, and having broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay.
And he went up into a mountain, and called to him such as he wished, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, read more. and to have authority to cure diseases, and to cast out demons. And Simon he surnamed Peter; and James the sou of Zebedee, and John the brother of James: and these he surnamed Boanerges, which means, sons of thunder: and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the Son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also delivered him up. And they went into a house:
And Jesus and his disciples went out into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the road, he asked his disciples, saying to them: Who do men say that I am? They answered: John the Immerser; and others, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets. read more. And he said to them: But who say you that I am? Peter answered and said to him: Thou art the Christ. And he charged them to tell no one concerning him. And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, and the chief priests, and the scribes, and be put to death, and after three days rise again. And he spoke this saying plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But he turned about, and, looking on his disciples, rebuked Peter, saying: Get behind me, adversary: for you are not thinking of the things of God, but of the things of men.
And he came and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter: Simon, do you sleep? Had you not strength to watch one hour?
He again denied. And again, after a little while, those who stood by said to Peter: Surely, you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech is like theirs.
And there were, at a distance, women also, looking on; among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome;
And when the sabbath had passed, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, that they might come and anoint him.
And all extolled him; and they wondered at the words of grace which proceeded out of his mouth, and said: Is not this the son of Joseph?
And he arose and went out of the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simon's mother-in-law was confined with a violent fever: and they besought him in her behalf.
And when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at the knees of Jesus, and said: Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.
And when it was day, he called to him his disciples; and from them he chose twelve, whom he also named apostles: Simon, whom he also named Peter, and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, read more. Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphreus, and Simon who is called Zelotes, Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, who was also the traitor.
And it came to pass, as he was praying in a retired place, that his disciples were with him; and he asked them, saying: "Who do the multitudes say that I am? They answered and said: John the Immerser; but some, Elijah; and others, that some prophet of ancient times has risen again. read more. He said to them: But who do you say that I am? Peter answered and said: The Christ of God.
Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed. And he sent Peter and John, saying: Go, make ready the passover for us, that we may eat it. read more. They said to him: Where dost thou wish that we make it ready? And he said to them: Behold, as you go into the city, there shall meet you a man carrying a pitcher of water; follow him into the house that he enters; and say to the master of the house: The Teacher says to you, Where is the room in which I may eat the passover with my disciples? And he will show you a large upper room furnished; there make ready. And they went, and found as he had said to them; and they made ready the passover.
And the Lord said: Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded you apostles for himself, that he may sift you as wheat.
And the Lord said: Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded you apostles for himself, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith fail not. And when you have turned to me again, strengthen your brethren. read more. And he said to him: Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both to prison and to death. He replied: I tell you, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day before you have three times denied that you know me.
And after he had gone out, he went, according to custom, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them: Pray, that you enter not into temptation. read more. And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and kneeled down, and prayed, saying: Father, if thou art willing that this cup should pass from me yet, not my will, but thine be done. And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, to strengthen him. And he was in agony, and prayed more earnestly. And his sweat was like great drops of blood falling to the ground. And he arose from prayer, and came to his disciples, and found them asleep for sorrow. And he said to them: Why do you sleep? Arise and pray, lest you enter into temptation. And while he was yet speaking, behold a multitude; and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and came near to Jesus to kiss him. But Jesus said to him: Judas, do you deliver up the Son of man with a kiss? When those who were about him saw what would be done, they said to him: Lord, shall we strike with the sword? And a certain one of them struck the servant of the chief priest, and cut off his right ear. And Jesus answered and said: Let this matter proceed thus far. And he touched his ear and healed him.
And they took him, and led him away, and brought him into the house of the chief priest. But Peter followed at a distance. And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the court, and had sat down together, Peter sat down in the midst of them. read more. And a certain maid-servant saw him sitting by the fire; and, looking intently at him, she said: This man also was with him. But he denied, saying: "Woman, I know him not. And after a little, another saw him, and said: You also are one of them. Peter replied: Man, I am not. And about one hour after, another confidently affirmed, saying: Of a truth, this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean. But Peter said: Man, I know not what you say. And immediately, while he was speaking, the cock crew. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, that he had said to him, Before the cock crows, you will deny me three times.
and returned from the sepulcher, and told all these things to the eleven and to the rest. It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James, and the others with them, that told these things to the apostles. read more. And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. But Peter arose and ran to the sepulcher, and stooping down, he saw the linen clothes lying by themselves; and he departed, wondering in himself at that which had come to pass.
and saying: The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon.
These things were done in Beth any, beyond the Jordan, where John was immersing. The next day John saw Jesus coming to him, and said: Behold the Lamb of God, that takes away the sin of the world. read more. This is he of whom I said, After me comes a man who is now before me, for he existed before me. And I knew him not; but that he might be made manifest to Israel, for this reason I have come immersing in water. And John testified, saying: I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. And I knew him not; but he that sent me to immerse in water, said to me, On whom you shall see the Spirit descending and remaining, this is he that immerses in the Holy Spirit. And I saw, and do testify that this is the Son of God. Again the next day, John was standing with two of his disciples. And looking on Jesus as he walked, he said: Be hold the Lamb of God.
He said to them: Come and see. They went and saw where he abode; and they remained with him that day; for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter.
One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
After this, many of his disciples went back, and walked with him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve: Will you also go away? read more. Simon Peter answered him: Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life; and we believe, and know that thou art the Christ, the Son of God.
And early on the first day of the week, while it was yet dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and said to them: They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we know not where they have laid him. read more. Then Peter and the other disciple went out, and came to the tomb. And the two ran together; and the other disciple outran Peter, and came first to the tomb; and he stooped down and saw the linen cloths lying, but he did not go in. Then came Simon Peter, following him; and he went into the tomb, and saw the linen cloths lying, and the handkerchief that had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded in a place by itself. Then, therefore, the other disciple, who came first to the tomb, went in, and saw, and believed. For, as yet, they did not know the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples went away again by them selves.
After this, Jesus showed himself again to his disciples, at the sea of Tiberias. And he showed himself in this way. There were together, Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathaniel of Cana of Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. read more. Simon Peter said to them: I am going a fishing. They said to him: We also are going with you. They went out and entered the ship; and that night they caught nothing. But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. Then Jesus said to them: Children, have you any food? They answered him: No. He said to them: Throw the net on the right side of the ship, and you will find. They threw it, there fore, and were no longer able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. Then that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter: It is the Lord. And when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girded on his outer coat, for he had on his inner garment only, and threw himself into the sea. And the other disciples came in a little ship, dragging the net with fishes, for they were not far from the land, only about two hundred cubits. As soon as they had come to the land, they saw there a fire of coals, and fish lying upon it, and bread. Jesus said to them; Bring of the fish that you have just taken. Simon Peter went and drew the net to the land, full of large fishes, a hundred and fifty-three. And though they were so many, the net did not break. Jesus said to them: Come and breakfast. But no one of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? because they knew it was the Lord. Then Jesus came and took the bread, and gave it to them, and the fish likewise. This was now the third occasion on which Jesus showed himself to his disciples, after he had risen from the dead. When, therefore, they had taken breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter: Simon, son of Jonah, Do you love me more than these? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Feed my lambs. He said to him again a second time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Be a shepherd to my sheep. He said to him a third time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Do you love me? And he said to him: Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus said to him: Feed my sheep. Verily, verily I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself, and walked whither you chose; but when you have become old, you shall stretch forth your hands, and another shall gird you, and lead you whither you would not. But this he said, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he said to him: Follow me.
And in those days Peter arose in the midst of the disciples, (the number of the names together was about a hundred and twenty,) and said: Brethren, it was necessary for this scripture to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit had before spoken by the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who was a guide to those who took Jesus: read more. for he was numbered with us, and had been appointed to this ministry. Therefore he purchased a field with the reward of his iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it was known to all that dwelt in Jerusalem, so that the field is called, in their own language, Akeldama, that is, The field of blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no one dwell in it, and, His office let another take. Therefore, of these men who have associated with us during the whole time in which the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the immersion of John till the day on which he was taken up from us, must one be appointed as a witness with us of his resurrection. And they set apart two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias; and praying, they said: Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all, make known which of these two thou hast chosen, that he may be appointed to this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave in their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias: and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
They were amazed and astonished, and said one to another: Are not all these that are speaking, Galileans?
But Peter standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice and said to them: Men of Judea, and all you that dwell in Jerusalem, be this known to you, and give ear to my words. For these men are not drunk, as you suppose: for it is the third hour of the day. read more. But this is that which was spoken of by the prophet Joel: And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. And also on my servants and on my handmaids, I will pour out of my Spirit in those days, and they shall prophesy. And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath, blood and fire and columns of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and terrible day of the Lord comes. And it shall come to pass, that whoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus the Nazarene, clearly pointed out to you as a man from God, by mighty deeds and wonders and signs, which God did by him in your midst, as you yourselves also know, him, delivered up by the fixed purpose and foreknowledge of God, you took, and with wicked hands did crucify and slay: whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible for him to be held in subjection by it. For David speaks with reference to him: I saw the Lord always in my presence: for he is at my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue sang praise. Moreover, my flesh shall rest in hope; because thou wilt not leave my soul in hades, nor suffer thy Holy One to see corruption. Thou didst make known to me the ways of life; thou wilt make me full of joy with thy countenance. Brethren, I may say to you plainly of the patriarch David, that he died, and was buried, and his sepulcher is with us to this day. Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn to him with an oath, that he would cause one from the fruit of his loins to sit on his throne; foreseeing this, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that his soul was not left in hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus has God raised up, of which we all are witnesses. Therefore, having been exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from his Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this, which you now see and hear. For David has not ascended into the heavens; but he himself says, The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, till I make thy enemies thy footstool. Therefore, let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God has made this same Jesus whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ. When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the other apostles: Brethren, what shall we do? And Peter said to them: Repent, and be immersed, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, in order to the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you, and your children, and to all that are afar off, as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying: Save yourselves from this wicked generation.
Now, when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and plain men, they were astonished; and they also recognized them, that they had been with Jesus;
Bat Peter and John answering them, said: Whether it is right in the sight of God to obey you rather than God, judge you. For we can not but speak the things that we have seen and heard.
But the chief priest arose, and all that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation; and they laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the public prison. read more. But an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison by night, and brought them out, and said: Go, stand in the temple, and speak to the people all the words of this life. And having heard this, they entered the temple, early in the morning, and taught. But the chief priest, and those who were with him, came and called together the Sanhedrin, and all the eldership of the sons of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.
But Peter and the apostles answered and said: "We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers has raised up Jesus, whom you slew by hanging him on a tree. read more. Him has God exalted to his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, in order to give to Israel repentance and remission of sins: and we are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit also, whom God has given to them that obey him.
Now when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John; who, when they had gone down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. read more. For he had not yet fallen on any of them; only they had been immersed into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the hands of the apostles, he offered them money, saying: Give me, also, this authority, that who ever I shall lay my hands on, may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him: Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God might be purchased with money. You have neither part nor share in this matter; for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent, there fore, of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the purpose of your heart may be forgiven you. For I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. But Simon answered and said: Pray you both to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken come upon me. Then, when they had given their testimony, and preached the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.
And having come to Jerusalem, he attempted to associate with the disciples: and they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and told them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had boldly preached in Damascus in the name of Jesus. read more. And he was with them in Jerusalem, coming in and going out; and, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, he conversed and reasoned with the Hellenists; but they under took to kill him. And when the brethren learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him out to Tarsus.
And it came to pass that Peter, passing through all the places, came down also to the saints that dwelt in Lydda. And he found there a certain man named Aeneas, who was a paralytic, and had kept his bed for eight years. read more. And Peter said to him: Aeneas, Jesus the Christ restores you to health; arise, and spread your bed for yourself. And he immediately arose; and all that dwelt in Lydda and Saron saw him; and they turned to the Lord. Now there was in Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which name, when translated, is Dorcas. She was full of good works and deeds of charity which she did. And it came to pass, in those days, that she was taken sick, and died. And when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And as Lydda was near to Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, requesting him to make no delay in coming to them. Then Peter arose, and went with them; and when he had come, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all out, and kneeled down and prayed; and turning to the body, he said: Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and raised her up. And when he had called in the saints and the widows, he presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. And it came to pass, that he remained many days in Joppa with one Simon, a tanner.
Send, therefore, to Joppa, and call for Simon, who is surnamed Peter: he lodges in the house of Simon a tanner, by the sea; who, when he comes, will speak to you.
And the apostles and brethren that were in Judea, heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. And when Peter went up to Jerusalem, those who were of the circumcision contended with him, read more. saying: You went in to uncircumcised men, and ate with them. And Peter began, and laid the matter before them in order, saying: I was in the city of Joppa, praying; and, while in a trance, I saw a vision, some vessel like a great sheet, descending, let down from heaven by the four corners; and it came even to me. When I had looked attentively into it, I observed and saw four-footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts and creeping things and birds of the air. And I heard a voice saying to me, Rise, Peter, kill and eat. But I said, By no means, Lord; for nothing common or unclean has ever entered my mouth. But the voice answered me a second time from heaven, What God has cleansed, you must not call common. This was done the third time, and all was drawn up again into heaven. And behold, three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea, immediately came to the house where I was. And the Spirit commanded me to go with them without hesitation. And these six brethren accompanied me. And we entered the man's house: and he told us how he had seen an angel in his house, standing and saying to him, Send to Joppa and call for Simon, who is surnamed Peter; he will tell you words by which you and all your house shall be saved. And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then I remembered the word of the Lord, as he said, John immersed in water, but you shall be immersed in the Holy Spirit. If, then, God gave them the like gift that he gave to us who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, what was I, that I could withstand God? And when they heard these things, they ceased to contend; and they glorified God, saying: Then, indeed, has God given to the Gentiles also repentance in order to life.
At that time Herod the king undertook to afflict some of the church. And he slew with the sword James the brother of John. read more. And when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he apprehended Peter also. Those were the days of unleavened bread. And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four tetrads of soldiers to guard him, intending to bring him out to the people after the passover. Therefore, Peter was kept in prison; but fervent prayer to God was made for him by the church. When Herod was about to bring him out, on that night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains; and the keepers before the doors were guarding the prison. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison. And he gently struck Peter on the side, and awoke him, saying: Arise quickly; and his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him: Gird your self, and bind on your sandals; and he did so. And he said to him: Throw your mantle around you, and follow me. And he went out, and followed him; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought that he saw a vision. And when they had passed through the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord. And they went out, and passed on through one street; and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter came to himself, he said: Now I know, in truth, that the Lord has sent his angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod, and from all that was expected by the Jewish people. And being aware of his condition, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, who is surnamed Mark, where many had met together, and were praying. And when he knocked at the door of the entrance, a maidservant, named Rhoda, came to listen. And recognizing Peter's voice, she did not open the entrance for joy, but ran in and told that Peter was standing before the entrance. And they said to her: You are mad. But she confidently affirmed that it was even so. Then said hey: It is his angel. But Peter continued to knock; and when they had opened the door, they saw him, and were astonished. But, having made a sign to them with his hand, that they should keep silence, he made known to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison, and he said: Tell this to James, and to the brethren. And he went out, and departed to another place. And when it was day, there was no little confusion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. But Herod, when he had sought for him, and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded them to be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Cesarean, and there he remained.
And certain men came down from Judea, and taught the brethren, saying: Unless you be circumcised, according to the custom of Moses, you can not be saved. Therefore, after Paul and Barnabas had no little dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others from among them, should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question. read more. Being, therefore, con ducted on their journey by the church, they passed through Phenicia and Samaria, making known the conversion of the Gentiles; and they gave great joy to all the brethren. When they arrived at Jerusalem, they were received by the church, and the apostles and elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. But some of the sect of the Pharisees, who believed, arose, saying, that it was necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together to deliberate about this matter. And after there had been much disputing, Peter arose, and said to them: Brethren, you know that, at the beginning, God made choice among us, that, by my mouth, the Gentiles should hear the word of the Gospel, and believe. And God, who knows the heart, became a witness for them, by giving them the Holy Spirit, as he gave it also to us; and he made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now, therefore, why do you put God to the proof, by placing a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers, nor we ourselves, were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved, even as they, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Then all the multitude kept silence, and listened to Barnabas and Paul, while they made known what signs and wonders God had done by them among the Gentiles. And after they were silent, James answered and said: Brethren, hear me; Simeon has declared how God, at the first, did visit the Gentiles, in order to take out from among them a people for his name.
Simeon has declared how God, at the first, did visit the Gentiles, in order to take out from among them a people for his name. And with this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, read more. After this I will return, and build again the tabernacle of David which has fallen down; and I will build again its ruins, and I will set it up; that the rest of men may seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name has been called, says the Lord, who does all these things. Known to God from eternity are all bis works. For these reasons, my judgment is, that we give no trouble to those who, from among the Gentiles, have turned to God; but that we write to them to abstain from pollutions of idols, and from lewdness, and from what is strangled, and from blood. For, from ancient times, Moses has, in every city, those who preach him, being read in the synagogue every sabbath-day. Then it pleased the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to send to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, chosen men from among themselves; Judas, who was surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren; and they wrote by their hands as follows: The apostles, and the elders, and the brethren, to the brethren of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting: Inasmuch as we have heard that certain persons went out from us and troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, That you must be circumcised, and keep the law, to whom we gave no commandment, it has seemed good to us, having come together with one mind, to send chosen men to you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have en dangered their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent, therefore, Judas and Silas, who will tell you the same things in word. For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: That you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what is strangled, and from lewdness; from which if you keep yourselves carefully, you will do well. Farewell. So when these men were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and having assembled the multitude, they delivered this letter. When they had read it, they rejoiced for the consolation which it gave.
Have we not the right to lead about a sister wife, as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
Then, after three years, I went up to Jerusalem, in order to become personally acquainted with Peter; and I remained with him fifteen days:
Then, fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and I took Titus also with me. And I went up because of a revelation, and communicated to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who are of reputation, lest, by any means, I should run or had run in vain. read more. But not even Titus, who was with me, though he was a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. I acted thus indeed on account of false brethren, stealthily brought in, who stole in to spy out our freedom, which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage, to whom we yielded in submission, not even for an hour, in order that the truth of the gospel might remain with you. But from those who were supposed to be something; (what they were is a matter of no importance to me: God does not accept the person of man;) they, indeed, who were supposed to be something, communicated no additional truth to me; but; on the other hand, seeing that I was intrusted with the gospel of the uncircumcision, as Peter was with that of the circumcision, (for he who gave efficiency to Peter, for the apostleship of the circumcision, gave efficiency to me also, as an apostle for the Gentiles,) and knowing the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles, but they to the circumcision, requesting only that we would remember the poor, which same thing I have been diligent in doing. But when Peter came to Antioch, I openly opposed him, because he had incurred blame. For, before certain persons came from James, he ate- with the Gentiles: but, when they had come, he withdrew, and separated himself, because he feared those who were of the circumcision. And the other Jews, also, acted hypocritically with him, so that even Barnabas was led away by their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they did not walk uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter, before them all: If you, being a Jew, live after the manner of the Gentiles, and not after the manner of the Jews, why do you compel the Gen tiles to observe Jewish customs? We, who are Jews by birth, and not Gentile sinners, knowing that a man is not justified by works of law, but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed on Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of law: because, by works of law no flesh shall be justified.
The church in Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you, and so does Marcus my son.
The church in Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you, and so does Marcus my son.
Fausets
(See JESUS CHRIST .) Of Bethsaida on the sea of Galilee. The Greek for Hebrew Kephas, "stone" or "rock." Simon his original name means "hearer"; by it he is designated in Christ's early ministry and between Christ's death and resurrection. Afterward he is called by his title of honour, "Peter". Son of Jonas (Mt 16:17; Joh 1:43; 21:16); tradition makes Johanna his mother's name. Brought up to his father's business as a fisherman on the lake of Galilee. He and his brother Andrew were partners with Zebedee's sons, John and James, who had "hired servants," which implies a social status and culture not the lowest. He lived first at Bethsaida, then in Capernaum, in a house either his own or his mother-in-law's, large enough to receive Christ and his fellow apostles and some of the multitude who thronged about Him. In" leaving all to follow Christ," he implies he made a large sacrifice (Mr 10:28). The rough life of hardship to which fishing inured him on the stormy lake formed a good training of his character to prompt energy, boldness, and endurance.
The Jews obliged their young to attend the common schools. In Ac 4:13, where Luke writes the Jewish council regarded him and John as "unlearned and ignorant," the meaning is not absolutely so, but in respect to professional rabbinical training "lairs," "ignorant" of the deeper sense which the scribes imagined they found in Scripture. Aramaic, half Hebrew half Syriac, was the language of the Jews at that time. The Galileans spoke this debased Hebrew with provincialisms of pronunciation and diction. So at the denial Peter betrayed himself by his "speech" (Mt 26:73; Lu 22:59). Yet lie conversed fluently with Cornelius seemingly without an interpreter, and in Greek His Greek style in his epistles is correct; but Clement of Alexandria, Irenaeus, and Tertullian allege he employed an interpreter for them. He was married and led about his wife in his apostolic journeys (1Co 9:5).
The oblique coincidence; establishing his being a married man, between Mt 8:14, "Peter's wife's mother ... sick of a fever," and 1Co 9:5, "have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as Cephas?" is also a delicate confirmation of the truth of the miraculous cure, as no forger would be likely to exhibit such a minute and therefore undesigned correspondence of details. Alford translated 1Pe 5:13 "she in Babylon" (compare 1Pe 3:7); but why she should be called "elected together with you in Babylon," as if there were no Christian woman in Babylon besides, is inexplicable. Peter and John being closely associated, Peter addresses the church in John's province, Asia, "your co-elect sister church in Babylon saluteth you"; so 2Jo 1:13 in reply. Clemens Alex. gives the name of Peter's wife as Perpetua. Tradition makes him old at the time of his death. His first call was by Andrew his brother, who had been pointed by their former master John the Baptist to Jesus, "behold the Lamb of God" (Joh 1:36).
That was the word that made the first Christian; so it has been ever since. "We have found (implying they both had been looking for) the Messias," said Andrew, and brought him to Jesus. "Thou art Simon son of Jona (so the Alexandrinus manuscript but Vaticanus and Sinaiticus 'John'), thou shalt be called Cephas" (Joh 1:41-42). As "Simon" he was but an hearer; as Peter or Cephas he became an apostle and so a foundation stone of the church, by union to the one only Foundation Rock (Eph 2:20; 1Co 3:11). Left to nature, Simon, though bold and stubborn, was impulsive and fickle, but joined to Christ lie became at last unshaken and firm. After the first call the disciples returned to their occupation. The call to close discipleship is recorded Lu 5:1-11. The miraculous draught of fish overwhelmed Simon with awe at Jesus' presence; He who at creation said, "let the waters bring forth abundantly" (Ge 1:20), now said, "let down your nets for a draught."
Simon, when the net which they had spread in vain all night now broke with the multitude of fish, exclaimed, "depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!" He forgot Ho 9:12 end; our sin is just the reason why we should beg Christ to come, not depart. "Fear not, henceforth thou shalt catch to save alive (zoogroon) men," was Jesus' explanation of the typical meaning of the miracle. The call, Mt 4:18-22 and Mr 1:16-20, is the same as Luke 5, which supplements them. Peter and Andrew were first called; then Christ entered Peter's boat, then wrought the miracle, then called James and John; Jesus next healed of fever Simon's mother-in-law. His call to the apostleship is recorded Mt 10:2-4. Simon stands foremost in the list, and for the rest of Christ's ministry is mostly called "Peter." His forward energy fitted him to be spokesman of the apostles. So in Joh 6:66-69, when others went back (2Ti 4:10), to Jesus' testing question, "will ye also go away?" Simon replied, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life, and we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God." Compare his words, Ac 4:12.
He repeated this testimony at Caesarea Philippi (Mt 16:16). Then Jesus said: "blessed art thou, Simon Barjona, for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee (Joh 1:13; Eph 2:8) but My Father in heaven, and ... thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prewill against it." Peter by his believing confession identified himself with Christ the true Rock (1Co 3:11; Isa 28:16; Eph 2:20), and so received the name; just as Joshua bears the name meaning "Jehovah Saviour", because typifying His person and offices. Peter conversely, by shrinking from a crucified Saviour and dissuading Him from the cross, "be it far from Thee," identified Himself with Satan who tempted Jesus to take the world kingdom without the cross (Mt 4:8-10), and is therefore called "Satan," "get thee behind Me, Satan," etc. Instead of a rock Peter became a stumbling-block ("offense," scandalous). "I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven," namely, to open the door of faith to the Jews first, then to Cornelius and the Gentiles (Ac 10:11-48).
Others and Paul further opened the door (Ac 14:27; 11:20-26). The papal error regards Peter as the rock, in himself officially, and as transmitting an infallible authority to the popes, as if his successors (compare Isa 22:22). The "binding" and "loosing" power is given as much to the whole church, layman and ministers, as to Peter (Mt 18:18; Joh 20:23.) Peter exercised the power of the keys only in preaching, as on Pentecost (Acts 2), He never exercised authority over the other apostles. At Jerusalem James exercised the chief authority (Ac 15:19; 21:18; Ga 1:19; 2:9). Peter "withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed," "not walking uprightly in the truth of the gospel," but in "dissimulation" (Ga 2:10-14). (On the miraculous payment of the temple tribute of the half shekel (two drachms) each, see JESUS CHRIST.)
Matthew alone (Mt 17:24-27) records it, as appropriate to the aspect of Jesus as theocratic king, prominent in the first Gospel. Peter too hastily had answered for his Master as though He were under obligation to pay the temple tribute; Peter forgot his own confession (Mt 16:16). Nevertheless, the Lord, in order not to "offend." i.e. give a handle of reproach, as if lie despised the temple and law, caused Peter the fisherman again to resume his occupation and brought a fish (Ps 8:8; Jon 1:17) with a starer, i.e. shekel, in its mouth, the exact sum required, four drachmas, for both. Jesus said, "for ME and thee," not for us; for His payment was on an altogether different footing from Peter's (compare Joh 20:17). Peter needed a "ransom for his soul" and could not pay it; but Jesus needed none; nay, came to pay it Himself (Joh 20:28), first putting Himself under the same yoke with us (Ga 4:4-5). Peter, James, and John were the favored three alone present at the raising of Jairus' daughter, the transfiguration, and the agony in Gethsemane.
His exaltations were generally, through his self sufficiency giving place to weakness, accompanied with humiliations, as in Matthew 16. In the transfiguration he t
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Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them, and said to him: All these things will I give you, if you will fall down and worship me. read more. Then Jesus said to him: Get behind me, Satan, for it is written: You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.
And as he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishers. And he said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. read more. And they immediately left their nets and followed him. And going on thence, he saw other two brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.
And when Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying, and ill of a fever.
Now these are the names of the twelve apostles: the first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphseus, and Lebbceus, who was surnamed Thaddaeus; read more. Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also delivered him up.
And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were alarmed, and said: It is a specter! and they cried out for fear.
And he said: Come. And Peter went down from the ship, and walked upon the water to go to Jesus.
Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said to him: Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
And when they had come into Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma came to Peter, and said: Does not your teacher pay the didrachma? He said: Yes. And when he had come into the house, before he had spoken, Jesus said to him: What think you, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect tax or tribute? From their own sons, or from the sons of others? read more. Peter said to him: From the sons of others. Jesus said to him: Then are their own sons free. But that we may give them no offense, go to the sea, and throw in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first; and when you have opened his mouth, you will find a stater; take that, and give to them for me and you.
Verily, I say to you, my disciples, Whatever you bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.
And behold, one came and said to him: Good teacher, what good thing must I do that I may have eternal life? He said to him:
The young man said to him: All these have I kept from my youth, what do I lack? Jesus said to him: If you would be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me. read more. When the young man heard that saying, he went away grieved; for he had great possessions. Jesus said to his disciples: Verily I say to you, A rich man will with difficulty enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to 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. When the disciples heard it, they were greatly amazed, and said: Who, then, can be saved? But Jesus looked on them, and said to them: "With men, this is impossible; but with God, all things are possible. Then Peter answered and said to him: Behold, we have left all and followed thee; what, then, shall we have?
Peter answered and said to him: Though all shall be offended at thee, yet will I never be offended. Jesus said to him: Verily I say to you, This night, before the cock crows, you will deny me three times. read more. Peter said to him: Though it should be necessary for me to die with thee, I will not deny thee. In like manner said all the disciples.
But Peter was sitting without in the court; and a maid servant came to him, and said: You also were with Jesus of Galilee.
And when he went out into the entrance, an other maid-servant saw him, and said to those who were there: This man was also with Jesus the Nazarene.
After a little while, those who stood by came and said to Peter: Of a truth you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.
And as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon, and Andrew the brother of Simon, throwing a net about in the sea; for they were fishers. And Jesus said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. read more. And immediately they left their nets, and followed him. And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship, mending their nets. And he immediately called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.
And Peter began to say to him: Behold, we have left all and followed thee.
Peter said to him: Though all should find occasion for offense, yet I will not. And Jesus said to him: Verily I say to you, this day, during this very night, before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times. read more. But he said with the more vehemence: Though it should be necessary for me to die with thee, I would not deny thee. And so said they all.
And while Peter was in the court below, one of the maid servants of the chief priest came; and when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him, and said: You also were with Jesus the Nazarene. read more. But he denied, saying: I neither know, nor understand what you say. And he went out into the entrance, and the cock crew. And the maid-servant saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by: This man is one of them.
And immediately the cock crew the second time. And Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him: Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times. And when he thought upon it, he wept.
But go, tell his disciples, and Peter, that he goes before you into Galilee; there you shall see him, as he told you.
And it came to pass while the multitude was pressing on him to hear the word of God, and he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, that he saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets. read more. And he entered one of the ships, which was Simon s, and requested him to push out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitude from the ship. And when he had made an end of speaking, he said to Simon: Push out into the deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answered and said to him: Master, we have toiled all night and have caught nothing; but at thy command, I will let down the net. And when they had done this, they inclosed a great number of fishes, and their net began to break; and they beckoned to their partners who were in the other ship, to come and help them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. And when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at the knees of Jesus, and said: Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For amazement at the draught of fishes which they had caught had seized upon him and all that were with him; and in like manner also upon James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon: Fear not; from this time forth you shall catch men. And when they had brought their ships to the land, they left all and followed him.
And he said to him: Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both to prison and to death. He replied: I tell you, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day before you have three times denied that you know me.
And a certain maid-servant saw him sitting by the fire; and, looking intently at him, she said: This man also was with him.
And a certain maid-servant saw him sitting by the fire; and, looking intently at him, she said: This man also was with him.
And after a little, another saw him, and said: You also are one of them. Peter replied: Man, I am not. And about one hour after, another confidently affirmed, saying: Of a truth, this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean.
And about one hour after, another confidently affirmed, saying: Of a truth, this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean.
and saying: The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon.
who were begotten, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;) read more. and he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking on him, said: You are Simon, the son of Jonah; you shall be called Cephas (which, when translated, is Rock).
After this, many of his disciples went back, and walked with him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve: Will you also go away? read more. Simon Peter answered him: Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life; and we believe, and know that thou art the Christ, the Son of God.
Simon Peter said to him: Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him: Whither I go, you can not follow me now; but you shall follow me hereafter. Peter said to him: Lord, why can I not follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thee. read more. Jesus answered him: Will you lay down your life for me? Verily, verily I say to you, the cock will not crow till you have denied me three times.
But Peter stood without near the door. Then the other disciple, who was acquainted with the chief priest, went out and spoke to the door-keeper, and brought Peter in. Then the maid-servant who kept the door said to Peter: Are you not also one of the disciples of this man? He said: I am not.
And Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. Then they said to him: Are not you also one of his disciples? He denied, and said: I am not.
Jesus said to her: Touch me not, for I have not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say to them, I ascend to my Father and your Father, and to my God and your God.
Whosever sins you forgive, they are forgiven them: whosever sins you retain, they are retained.
And Thomas answered and said to him: My Lord and my God.
He said to him again a second time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Be a shepherd to my sheep.
Verily, verily I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself, and walked whither you chose; but when you have become old, you shall stretch forth your hands, and another shall gird you, and lead you whither you would not.
Verily, verily I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself, and walked whither you chose; but when you have become old, you shall stretch forth your hands, and another shall gird you, and lead you whither you would not. But this he said, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he said to him: Follow me.
The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and terrible day of the Lord comes.
him, delivered up by the fixed purpose and foreknowledge of God, you took, and with wicked hands did crucify and slay: whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible for him to be held in subjection by it.
When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the other apostles: Brethren, what shall we do? And Peter said to them: Repent, and be immersed, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, in order to the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
But the things which God fore told by the mouth of all his prophets, that the Christ should suffer, he has thus fulfilled.
To you first, God, having raised up his Son Jesus, has sent him to bless you, in turning every one of you away from his iniquities.
And there is salvation in no other; nor, indeed, is there another name under heaven, given among men, by which we must be saved. Now, when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and plain men, they were astonished; and they also recognized them, that they had been with Jesus;
Bat Peter and John answering them, said: Whether it is right in the sight of God to obey you rather than God, judge you. For we can not but speak the things that we have seen and heard.
But Peter and the apostles answered and said: "We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers has raised up Jesus, whom you slew by hanging him on a tree.
Then, they went from the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they were thought worthy to suffer shame for his name's sake.
And having come to Jerusalem, he attempted to associate with the disciples: and they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple.
And it came to pass that Peter, passing through all the places, came down also to the saints that dwelt in Lydda.
and he saw heaven opened, and some vessel, like a great sheet, descending, bound by the four corners, and let down to the earth. In this were all kinds of four-footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts and creeping things and birds of the air. read more. And there came a voice to him: Rise, Peter, kill and eat. But Peter said: By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing common or unclean. And the voice came to him again a second time: What God has cleansed, you must not call common. This was done the third time; and the vessel was taken up again into heaven. Now, while Peter was perplexed within himself about the meaning of the vision which he had seen, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius, having made inquiry for the house of Simon, stood before the gate. And they called and asked whether Simon, who was surnamed Peter, lodged there. While Peter was thinking of the vision, the Spirit said to him: Behold, three men ask for you: arise then, and go down, and go with them without hesitation, for I have sent them. And Peter came down to the men, and said: Behold, I am he whom you seek; what is the cause of your coming? They replied: Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that fears God, and of good report among the whole nation of the Jews, was instructed by a holy angel to call you to his house, and to hear words from you. Then he called them in, and lodged them. On the morrow he arose, and went with them; and some of the brethren from Joppa accompanied him. And on the next day, they entered Caesarea And Cornelius was expecting them, and had called together his relatives and near friends. And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and did him homage. But Peter raised him up, saying: Stand up; I also am a man. And; conversing with him, he went in, and found many that had come together. And he said to them: You know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with one of another nation, or to go into his house. But God has showed me that I must not call any man common or unclean. For this reason, when I was sent for, I came without making objection. I ask, therefore, for what purpose have you sent for me? And Cornelius replied: Four days ago, I was fasting till this hour; and, at the ninth hour, I was praying in my house; and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said: Cornelius, your prayer is heard, and your deeds of charity are remembered before God. Send, therefore, to Joppa, and call for Simon, who is surnamed Peter: he lodges in the house of Simon a tanner, by the sea; who, when he comes, will speak to you. Therefore, I immediately sent to you; and you have done well in coming. Now, there fore, we are all here present before God, to hear all things that are given in charge to you by God. And Peter opened his mouth, and said: In truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons; but, in every nation, he that fears him and works righteousness is accepted by him. The word which he sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ, (he is Lord of all,) that word, you know, which was published through the whole of Judea, beginning from Galilee, after the immersion that John preached; how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit, and with power; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed by the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all that he did, both in the country of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew by hanging him on a tree. Him God raised up the third day, and caused him to appear, not to all the people, but to witnesses who were be fore appointed by God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him, after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that this is he who has been appointed by God as the judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear testimony, that whoever believes on him shall receive remission of sins through his name. While Peter was speaking these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all that heard the word. And the believers that were of the circumcision, as many as had come with Peter, were astonished, because on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit: for they heard them speaking with tongues, and magnifying God. Then Peter answered: Can any one for bid the water, that these should not be immersed, who have received the Holy Spirit as well as we? And he commanded them to be immersed in the name of the Lord. Then they besought him to remain some days.
If, then, God gave them the like gift that he gave to us who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, what was I, that I could withstand God? And when they heard these things, they ceased to contend; and they glorified God, saying: Then, indeed, has God given to the Gentiles also repentance in order to life.
But some of them were men of Cyprus and Gyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed, and turned to the Lord. read more. And the report concerning them came to the ears of the church that was in Jerusalem; and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. When he had come, and had seen the grace of God, he rejoiced; and he exhorted them all to remain, with purpose of heart, faithful to the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great multitude was added to the Lord. And Barnabas went to Tarsus, to seek for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And it came to pass, that they met together in the church for a whole year, and taught a great multitude; and the disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
And having come and called together the church, they reported all that God had done with them, and that he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.
For these reasons, my judgment is, that we give no trouble to those who, from among the Gentiles, have turned to God;
And Paul, having remained many days longer, took leave of the brethren, and sailed to Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila, having shorn his head in Cenchrea; for he had a vow. And he came to Ephesus, and left them there; but he him self went into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. read more. And though they besought him to remain with them a longer time, he did not consent, but took leave of them, saying: I must, by all means, keep this coming feast in Jerusalem: but I will return to you, if God be willing. And he sailed from Ephesus,
For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, that he might not spend time in Asia; for he hastened, that, if it were possible for him, he might be in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost.
And, on the following day, Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present.
And, on the following day, Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. And when he had saluted them, he related, in every particular, the things which. God had done among the Gentiles by his ministry. read more. And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said to him: You see, brother, how many myriads of the Jews there are that believe, and they are all zealous for the law. And they have heard it reported of you, that you teach all the Jews that are among the Gentiles to apostatize from Moses; commanding them not to circumcise their children, nor to walk according to the customs. What, then, is to be done? A. multitude must certainly come together; for they will hear that you have come. Do, therefore, this which we advise you. We have four men who have a vow on them. Take them, and join with them in their vow of abstinence, and pay their expenses, in order that they may shave their heads; and all will know that the things which they have heard reported of you are nothing; but that you yourself also walk orderly, and keep the law.
Or, do you despise the riches of his goodness, and his forbearance, and his long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?
I mean this: that each one of you says, I am of Paul, and I of Apollos, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ.
For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which, is Jesus Christ.
Have we not the right to lead about a sister wife, as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
Have we not the right to lead about a sister wife, as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
nor did I go up to Jerusalem, to those who were apostles before me; but I went away into Arabia, and then returned to Damascus. Then, after three years, I went up to Jerusalem, in order to become personally acquainted with Peter; and I remained with him fifteen days: read more. but of the apostles I saw no other, but James the brother of the Lord.
and knowing the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles, but they to the circumcision, requesting only that we would remember the poor, which same thing I have been diligent in doing. read more. But when Peter came to Antioch, I openly opposed him, because he had incurred blame. For, before certain persons came from James, he ate- with the Gentiles: but, when they had come, he withdrew, and separated himself, because he feared those who were of the circumcision. And the other Jews, also, acted hypocritically with him, so that even Barnabas was led away by their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they did not walk uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter, before them all: If you, being a Jew, live after the manner of the Gentiles, and not after the manner of the Jews, why do you compel the Gen tiles to observe Jewish customs?
But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, that he might buy off those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption.
For by grace you have been saved through the faith; and this matter is not of yourselves; it is the gift of God:
having been builded upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone,
having been builded upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone,
in which new creation there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all and in all.
Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, salutes you, and so does Marcus the nephew of Barnabas, concerning whom you received commandments; if he come to you, receive him;
for Demas has forsaken me, having loved the present age; and he has gone to Thessalonica, Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for the ministry.
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the sojourners that are dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
Having purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit, to unfeigned love of the brethren, love one another with a pure heart fervently,
He himself bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live to righteousness. By his stripes you were healed.
Likewise, you husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, bestowing honor on the wife as the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, in order that your prayers may not be hindered.
Beloved, be not amazed at the fiery trial that has come on you to try you, as if some strange thing had happened to you. But, inasmuch as you are partakers of the sufferings of the Christ,, rejoice, that, at the revelation of his glory, you may also be exceedingly joyful. read more. If you are reproached on account of Christ, happy are you: for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. On their part he is reviled, but on your part he is glorified: for no one of you should suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil-doer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. But if any one suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God on this account.
By Sylvanus, a faithful brother to you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand. The church in Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you, and so does Marcus my son.
The church in Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you, and so does Marcus my son.
The church in Babylon, elected together with you, salutes you, and so does Marcus my son.
and count the long-suffering of our Lord, salvation, even as our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, has written to you; as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to be understood, which the unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, to their own destruction.
Hastings
SIMON, surnamed Peter, was 'the coryph
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And as he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishers.
And as he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishers. And he said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. read more. And they immediately left their nets and followed him. And going on thence, he saw other two brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.
And going on thence, he saw other two brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.
And when Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying, and ill of a fever. And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose and ministered to him.
Now these are the names of the twelve apostles: the first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
And Peter answered him, and said: Lord, if it be thou, bid me come to thee on the water. And he said: Come. And Peter went down from the ship, and walked upon the water to go to Jesus. read more. But when he saw the wind strong, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying: Lord, save me. And Jesus immediately stretched out his hand, and took hold of him, and said to him: you of little faith, why did you doubt?
And Jesus answered and said to him: Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I say to you, That you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church: and the gates of hades shall not prevail against it. read more. And I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you shall bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you shall loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. Then he charged his disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. From that time Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly, that he must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders, and the chief priests, and the scribes, and be put to death, and be raised again the third day. And Peter took him and began to rebuke him, saying: Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be to thee. But he turned and said to Peter: Get behind me, adversary; you are a snare to me: for you are not thinking of the things of God; but of the things of men.
And after six days, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up into a high mountain apart: and he was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his clothing was white as the light. read more. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter answered and said to Jesus: Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, let us make here three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.
And Peter answered and said to Jesus: Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, let us make here three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. While he was yet speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and lo, a voice from the cloud, saying: This is my beloved Son, in whom I delight; hear him. read more. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were greatly afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said: Arise and be not afraid. And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus.
All this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples left him and fled.
But Peter followed him, at a distance, to the palace of the chief priest, and went in and sat with the attendants, to see the end.
But Peter was sitting without in the court; and a maid servant came to him, and said: You also were with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying: I know not what you say. read more. And when he went out into the entrance, an other maid-servant saw him, and said to those who were there: This man was also with Jesus the Nazarene. And again he denied, with an oath: I know not the man. After a little while, those who stood by came and said to Peter: Of a truth you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you. Then he began to curse and to swear, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word which. Jesus had spoken to him: Before the cock crows, you will deny me three times. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And Peter remembered the word which. Jesus had spoken to him: Before the cock crows, you will deny me three times. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon, and Andrew the brother of Simon, throwing a net about in the sea; for they were fishers. And Jesus said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. read more. And immediately they left their nets, and followed him.
And immediately they left their nets, and followed him. And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship, mending their nets. read more. And he immediately called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.
And his fame immediately went abroad into all the surrounding country of Galilee. And forthwith, having gone out of the synagogue, they went into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. read more. Now the mother-in-law of Simon lay sick of a fever. And at once they told him of her. And he went to her, and took her by the hand, and raised her up, and the fever left her instantly; and she ministered to them.
And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out, two and two, and gave them authority over unclean spirits.
And Jesus and his disciples went out into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the road, he asked his disciples, saying to them: Who do men say that I am? They answered: John the Immerser; and others, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets. read more. And he said to them: But who say you that I am? Peter answered and said to him: Thou art the Christ. And he charged them to tell no one concerning him. And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, and the chief priests, and the scribes, and be put to death, and after three days rise again. And he spoke this saying plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But he turned about, and, looking on his disciples, rebuked Peter, saying: Get behind me, adversary: for you are not thinking of the things of God, but of the things of men.
And after six days, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up alone into a high mountain apart; and he was transfigured before them; and his raiment became shining, exceeding white like snow, as no fuller on earth could whiten them. read more. And there appeared to them Elijah, with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. And Peter answering, said to Jesus: Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. For he knew not what to say, for they were greatly afraid.
For he knew not what to say, for they were greatly afraid. And there was a cloud that overshadowed them; and a voice came from the cloud, This is my beloved Son; hear him. read more. And suddenly looking around, they no longer saw any one but Jesus only with themselves.
And he came and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter: Simon, do you sleep? Had you not strength to watch one hour?
And Peter followed him, at a distance, even into the palace of the chief priest, and sat with the attendants, and warmed himself at the fire.
And while Peter was in the court below, one of the maid servants of the chief priest came; and when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him, and said: You also were with Jesus the Nazarene. read more. But he denied, saying: I neither know, nor understand what you say. And he went out into the entrance, and the cock crew. And the maid-servant saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by: This man is one of them. He again denied. And again, after a little while, those who stood by said to Peter: Surely, you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech is like theirs. But he began to curse and to swear, saying: I know not this man of whom you speak. And immediately the cock crew the second time. And Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him: Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times. And when he thought upon it, he wept.
And immediately the cock crew the second time. And Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him: Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times. And when he thought upon it, he wept.
But go, tell his disciples, and Peter, that he goes before you into Galilee; there you shall see him, as he told you.
And he arose and went out of the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simon's mother-in-law was confined with a violent fever: and they besought him in her behalf. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever, and it left her: and she arose immediately, and ministered to them.
And it came to pass while the multitude was pressing on him to hear the word of God, and he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, that he saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets. read more. And he entered one of the ships, which was Simon s, and requested him to push out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitude from the ship. And when he had made an end of speaking, he said to Simon: Push out into the deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answered and said to him: Master, we have toiled all night and have caught nothing; but at thy command, I will let down the net. And when they had done this, they inclosed a great number of fishes, and their net began to break; and they beckoned to their partners who were in the other ship, to come and help them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.
and they beckoned to their partners who were in the other ship, to come and help them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. And when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at the knees of Jesus, and said: Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. read more. For amazement at the draught of fishes which they had caught had seized upon him and all that were with him; and in like manner also upon James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon: Fear not; from this time forth you shall catch men. And when they had brought their ships to the land, they left all and followed him.
And when they had brought their ships to the land, they left all and followed him.
And it came to pass, as he was praying in a retired place, that his disciples were with him; and he asked them, saying: "Who do the multitudes say that I am? They answered and said: John the Immerser; but some, Elijah; and others, that some prophet of ancient times has risen again. read more. He said to them: But who do you say that I am? Peter answered and said: The Christ of God. And he strictly charged them and commanded them to tell this to no one, saying: The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be put to death, and be raised the third day.
And it came to pass, about eight days after these words, that he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the appearance of his face was changed, and his raiment became white and glittering. read more. And. behold, two men conversed with him, who were Moses and Elijah; they appeared in glory, and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish in Jerusalem. And Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep; but having fully awakened, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass, that, as they were withdrawing from him, Peter said to Jesus: Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tents, one for thee, one for Moses, and one for. Elijah, not knowing what he said.
And it came to pass, that, as they were withdrawing from him, Peter said to Jesus: Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tents, one for thee, one for Moses, and one for. Elijah, not knowing what he said. While he was saying these things, there came a cloud, and it overshadowed them; and they were afraid as those men entered the cloud. read more. And there came a voice from the cloud, saying: This is my beloved Son; hear him. And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it secret, and told no one, in those days, any of the things which they had seen.
And the Lord said: Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded you apostles for himself, that he may sift you as wheat.
And Jesus answered and said: Let this matter proceed thus far. And he touched his ear and healed him.
And they took him, and led him away, and brought him into the house of the chief priest. But Peter followed at a distance.
And they took him, and led him away, and brought him into the house of the chief priest. But Peter followed at a distance. And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the court, and had sat down together, Peter sat down in the midst of them. read more. And a certain maid-servant saw him sitting by the fire; and, looking intently at him, she said: This man also was with him. But he denied, saying: "Woman, I know him not. And after a little, another saw him, and said: You also are one of them. Peter replied: Man, I am not. And about one hour after, another confidently affirmed, saying: Of a truth, this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean. But Peter said: Man, I know not what you say. And immediately, while he was speaking, the cock crew. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, that he had said to him, Before the cock crows, you will deny me three times. And Peter went out and wept bitterly.
And Peter went out and wept bitterly.
and saying: The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon.
These things were done in Beth any, beyond the Jordan, where John was immersing.
Again the next day, John was standing with two of his disciples. And looking on Jesus as he walked, he said: Be hold the Lamb of God. read more. And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. And Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them: What do you seek? They said to him: Rabbi, (which, when translated, is called Teacher,) where abidest thou? He said to them: Come and see. They went and saw where he abode; and they remained with him that day; for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
The day following, Jesus wished to go into Galilee; and he found Philip, and said to him: Follow me.
The next day, the multitude that stood on the other side of the sea, seeing that no other boat had been there but the one which his disciples had entered, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone; (but there came other boats from Tiberias near the place where they had eaten bread, after the Lord had given thanks;) read more. when, therefore, the multitude saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they also entered the ships, and came to Capernaum, seeking Jesus. And finding him on the opposite side of the sea, they said to him: Rabbi, when didst thou come hither? Jesus answered them, and said: Verily, verily I say to you, You seek me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves, and were satisfied. Labor not for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to life eternal, which the Son of man will give you; for him has God the Father at tested. Then they said to him: What shall we do, that we may work the works of God? Jesus answered and said to them: This is the work of God, that you believe on him whom he has sent. Therefore, they said to him: "What sign do you show, then, that we may see, and believe you? What work do you perform? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then Jesus said to them: Verily, verily I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven; but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven, and gives life for the world. Then they said to him: Lord, evermore give us this bread. Jesus said to them: I am the bread of life; he that comes to me shall never hunger; he that believes on me shall never thirst. But I said to you, that you have seen me, and yet you do not believe. All that the Father gives me, will come to me; and him that comes to me, I will by no means cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that of all that he gives me, I shall lose nothing, but shall raise it up at the last day. For this is the will of him that sent me, that every one who sees the Son, and believes on him, may have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. Then the Jews murmured at him, because he said, I am like bread that came down from heaven. And they said: Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How, then, does he say, I came down from heaven? Jesus answered and said to them: Murmur not among your selves; no man can come to me, unless the Father, who sent me, draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the- prophets, And they shall all be taught of God. Every one that hears from the Father, and learns, comes to me. Not that any one has seen the Father, but he who is from God; he has seen the Father. Verily, verily I say to you, He that believes on me has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and died. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that any one may eat of it, and not die. I am the bread that lives, which came down from heaven. If any one eat of this bread, he shall live forever. And the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews, therefore, contended among themselves, saying: How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said to them: Verily, verily I say to you, Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, you have no life in you. He that eats my flesh and drinks my blood, has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day; for my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eats my flesh and drinks my blood, dwells in me, and I in him. As the living Father has sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eats me, even he shall live by me. This is the bread that came down from heaven; not as your fathers ate the manna, and died; he that eats this bread shall live forever. These things he spoke in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. Therefore, many of his disciples, when they heard him, said: This is a hard saying; who can hear it? But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them: Does this offend you? Then, what if you should see the Son of man go up where he was before? It is the spirit that makes alive; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I speak to you are spirit and life. But there are some among you who believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who he was that would betray him. And he said: For this reason I said to you: No one can come to me unless it be given him from my Father. After this, many of his disciples went back, and walked with him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve: Will you also go away? Simon Peter answered him: Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life; and we believe, and know that thou art the Christ, the Son of God.
Then he came to Simon Peter; and Peter said to him: Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said to him: What I am doing you know not now, but you will know here after. read more. Peter said to him: Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him: Unless I wash you, you have no part with me. Simon Peter said to him: Lord, not my feet only, but my hands and my head.
Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, and struck the servant of the chief priest, and cut off his right ear. The name of the servant was Malchus. Then Jesus said to Peter: Put up your sword into its scabbard. Shall I not drink the cup that my Father has given me? read more. Then the band of soldiers, and the officer, and the attend ants of the Jews, took Jesus and bound him, and led him first to Annas; for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was chief priest that year. It was Caiaphas who had given counsel to the Jews, that it was profitable that one man should die for the people. And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. And that other disciple was acquainted with the chief priest, and he went in with Jesus into the palace of the chief priest.
And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. And that other disciple was acquainted with the chief priest, and he went in with Jesus into the palace of the chief priest. But Peter stood without near the door. Then the other disciple, who was acquainted with the chief priest, went out and spoke to the door-keeper, and brought Peter in. read more. Then the maid-servant who kept the door said to Peter: Are you not also one of the disciples of this man? He said: I am not.
When, therefore, they had taken breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter: Simon, son of Jonah, Do you love me more than these? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Feed my lambs.
When, therefore, they had taken breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter: Simon, son of Jonah, Do you love me more than these? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Feed my lambs. He said to him again a second time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Be a shepherd to my sheep.
He said to him again a second time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Be a shepherd to my sheep. He said to him a third time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Do you love me? And he said to him: Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus said to him: Feed my sheep.
He said to him a third time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Do you love me? And he said to him: Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus said to him: Feed my sheep. Verily, verily I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself, and walked whither you chose; but when you have become old, you shall stretch forth your hands, and another shall gird you, and lead you whither you would not. read more. But this he said, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he said to him: Follow me.
And in those days Peter arose in the midst of the disciples, (the number of the names together was about a hundred and twenty,) and said: Brethren, it was necessary for this scripture to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit had before spoken by the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who was a guide to those who took Jesus: read more. for he was numbered with us, and had been appointed to this ministry. Therefore he purchased a field with the reward of his iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it was known to all that dwelt in Jerusalem, so that the field is called, in their own language, Akeldama, that is, The field of blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no one dwell in it, and, His office let another take. Therefore, of these men who have associated with us during the whole time in which the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the immersion of John till the day on which he was taken up from us, must one be appointed as a witness with us of his resurrection. And they set apart two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias; and praying, they said: Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all, make known which of these two thou hast chosen, that he may be appointed to this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave in their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias: and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
But Peter standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice and said to them: Men of Judea, and all you that dwell in Jerusalem, be this known to you, and give ear to my words.
While they were speaking to the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, being vexed because they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. read more. And they laid hands on them, and put them in prison till the next day, for it was already evening. But many of those who heard the word, believed: and the number of the men was about five thousand. And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers and elders and scribes, and Annas the chief priest, and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the chief priest, met together in Jerusalem. And when they had made them stand in the midst, they asked: By what power, or by what name have you done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: Rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, if we are this day examined with respect unto the good deed done to the infirm man, by what means he has been saved, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him does this man stand before you in health. This is the stone that was rejected with contempt by you builders, which has become the head of the corner. And there is salvation in no other; nor, indeed, is there another name under heaven, given among men, by which we must be saved. Now, when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and plain men, they were astonished; and they also recognized them, that they had been with Jesus; and, seeing the man who had been cured standing with them, they had nothing to say in reply. But, having commanded them to go aside out of the Sanhedrin, they consulted with one another, saying: What shall we do with these men? For that an evident sign has been done by them, is manifest to all that dwell in Jerusalem, and we can not deny it. But that it may spread no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, so that they speak no more to any man in this name. And they called them in, and commanded them to speak no more at all, nor to teach, in the name of Jesus.
But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, and kept back part of the price, and his wife was conscious of it; and he brought a certain part of it, and laid it at the feet of the apostles. read more. But Peter said: Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart, that you should at tempt to deceive the Holy Spirit, and keep back part of the price of the land? While it remained unsold, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your own disposal? Why have you purposed this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men, but to God. And when Ananias heard these words, he fell down, and expired. And great fear came on all that heard these things. And the young men arose and wound him in his mantle, and carried him out, and buried him. And after an interval of about three hours, his wife, not knowing what had been done, came in. And Peter answered her: Tell me, did you sell the land for so much? She replied: Yes; for so much. But Peter said to her: Why is it that you have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they shall carry you out. And she immediately fell down at his feet, and expired. And the young men came in and found her dead; and they carried her out, and buried her by the side of her husband. And great fear came on all the church, and on all that heard these things.
so that they brought the sick out along the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that even the shadow of Peter, as he passed along, might fall on some of them.
But the chief priest arose, and all that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation; and they laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the public prison. read more. But an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison by night, and brought them out, and said: Go, stand in the temple, and speak to the people all the words of this life. And having heard this, they entered the temple, early in the morning, and taught. But the chief priest, and those who were with him, came and called together the Sanhedrin, and all the eldership of the sons of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the attendants came, and found them not in the prison, they returned and reported, saying: "We found the prison closed with all safety, and the guards standing before the doors; but when we had opened, we found no one within. When the priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were in doubt about them, what this could mean. And some one came and reported to them: Behold, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the attendants, and brought them without violence; for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned. And when they had brought them, they made them stand before the Sanhedrin; and the chief priest asked them, saying: Did we not strictly charge you not to teach in this name? And behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us. But Peter and the apostles answered and said: "We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers has raised up Jesus, whom you slew by hanging him on a tree. Him has God exalted to his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, in order to give to Israel repentance and remission of sins: and we are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit also, whom God has given to them that obey him. And when they heard this, they were enraged; and they determined to put them to death. Then arose a certain man in the Sanhedrin, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people; and he commanded them to put the apostles out for a little while, and said to them: Men of Israel, consider well with yourselves what you are about to do to these men. For before these days Theudas arose, declaring himself to be some great one; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves; and he was slain; and all, as many as believed him, were scattered and brought to naught. After this man, Judas the Galilean arose, in the days of the enrollment, and drew over many people after him; and he was destroyed, and all, as many as believed him, were scattered. And now I say to you, keep away from these men, and let them alone; for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to an end; but if it is of God, you can not bring it to an end: and take heed, lest you be found fighting also against God. And they were persuaded by him; and when they had called the apostles in and scourged them, they commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then, they went from the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they were thought worthy to suffer shame for his name's sake. And daily in the temple, and from house to house, they ceased not to teach and to preach Jesus the Christ.
And at that time there was a great persecution against the church that was in Jerusalem; and they were all dispersed throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. But devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. read more. But Saul attempted to destroy the church; entering every house, and dragging men and women, he delivered them up to prison. Then they that were dispersed went everywhere preaching the word. And Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached the Christ to them. And the multitudes with one mind gave heed to the things which were spoken by Philip, when they heard, and saw the signs which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them, and many paralytics and lame per sons were cured. And there was great joy in that city. But there was a certain man, named Simon, who had, be fore this time, been practicing magic in the city, and astonishing the people of Samaria, saying that he was some great one; to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying: This man is the great power of God. And they gave heed to him because he had, for a long time, astonished them with his magic arts. But when they believed Philip, who preached the good news concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were immersed, both men and women. And Simon himself also believed; and after he was immersed, he continued with Philip; and, seeing the mighty deeds and the signs which were done, he was astonished. Now when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John;
Now when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John; who, when they had gone down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit.
who, when they had gone down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For he had not yet fallen on any of them; only they had been immersed into the name of the Lord Jesus.
For he had not yet fallen on any of them; only they had been immersed into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the hands of the apostles, he offered them money,
And when Simon saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the hands of the apostles, he offered them money, saying: Give me, also, this authority, that who ever I shall lay my hands on, may receive the Holy Spirit.
saying: Give me, also, this authority, that who ever I shall lay my hands on, may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him: Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God might be purchased with money.
But Peter said to him: Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God might be purchased with money. You have neither part nor share in this matter; for your heart is not right in the sight of God.
You have neither part nor share in this matter; for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent, there fore, of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the purpose of your heart may be forgiven you.
Repent, there fore, of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the purpose of your heart may be forgiven you. For I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.
For I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. But Simon answered and said: Pray you both to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken come upon me.
But Simon answered and said: Pray you both to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken come upon me. Then, when they had given their testimony, and preached the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.
And it came to pass that Peter, passing through all the places, came down also to the saints that dwelt in Lydda. And he found there a certain man named Aeneas, who was a paralytic, and had kept his bed for eight years. read more. And Peter said to him: Aeneas, Jesus the Christ restores you to health; arise, and spread your bed for yourself. And he immediately arose; and all that dwelt in Lydda and Saron saw him; and they turned to the Lord. Now there was in Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which name, when translated, is Dorcas. She was full of good works and deeds of charity which she did. And it came to pass, in those days, that she was taken sick, and died. And when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And as Lydda was near to Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, requesting him to make no delay in coming to them. Then Peter arose, and went with them; and when he had come, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all out, and kneeled down and prayed; and turning to the body, he said: Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and raised her up. And when he had called in the saints and the widows, he presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord.
Now there was a certain man in Caesarea, named Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,
Now those who had been dispersed by the persecution that arose after the death of Stephen, traveled as far as Phenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to none but Jews.
At that time Herod the king undertook to afflict some of the church. And he slew with the sword James the brother of John. read more. And when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he apprehended Peter also. Those were the days of unleavened bread. And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four tetrads of soldiers to guard him, intending to bring him out to the people after the passover. Therefore, Peter was kept in prison; but fervent prayer to God was made for him by the church. When Herod was about to bring him out, on that night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains; and the keepers before the doors were guarding the prison. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison. And he gently struck Peter on the side, and awoke him, saying: Arise quickly; and his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him: Gird your self, and bind on your sandals; and he did so. And he said to him: Throw your mantle around you, and follow me. And he went out, and followed him; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought that he saw a vision. And when they had passed through the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord. And they went out, and passed on through one street; and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter came to himself, he said: Now I know, in truth, that the Lord has sent his angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod, and from all that was expected by the Jewish people. And being aware of his condition, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, who is surnamed Mark, where many had met together, and were praying. And when he knocked at the door of the entrance, a maidservant, named Rhoda, came to listen. And recognizing Peter's voice, she did not open the entrance for joy, but ran in and told that Peter was standing before the entrance. And they said to her: You are mad. But she confidently affirmed that it was even so. Then said hey: It is his angel. But Peter continued to knock; and when they had opened the door, they saw him, and were astonished. But, having made a sign to them with his hand, that they should keep silence, he made known to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison, and he said: Tell this to James, and to the brethren. And he went out, and departed to another place. And when it was day, there was no little confusion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. But Herod, when he had sought for him, and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded them to be put to death. And he went down from Judea to Cesarean, and there he remained.
And certain men came down from Judea, and taught the brethren, saying: Unless you be circumcised, according to the custom of Moses, you can not be saved. Therefore, after Paul and Barnabas had no little dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others from among them, should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question. read more. Being, therefore, con ducted on their journey by the church, they passed through Phenicia and Samaria, making known the conversion of the Gentiles; and they gave great joy to all the brethren. When they arrived at Jerusalem, they were received by the church, and the apostles and elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. But some of the sect of the Pharisees, who believed, arose, saying, that it was necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together to deliberate about this matter. And after there had been much disputing, Peter arose, and said to them: Brethren, you know that, at the beginning, God made choice among us, that, by my mouth, the Gentiles should hear the word of the Gospel, and believe. And God, who knows the heart, became a witness for them, by giving them the Holy Spirit, as he gave it also to us; and he made no distinction between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now, therefore, why do you put God to the proof, by placing a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers, nor we ourselves, were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved, even as they, through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Then all the multitude kept silence, and listened to Barnabas and Paul, while they made known what signs and wonders God had done by them among the Gentiles. And after they were silent, James answered and said: Brethren, hear me; Simeon has declared how God, at the first, did visit the Gentiles, in order to take out from among them a people for his name. And with this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and build again the tabernacle of David which has fallen down; and I will build again its ruins, and I will set it up; that the rest of men may seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name has been called, says the Lord, who does all these things. Known to God from eternity are all bis works. For these reasons, my judgment is, that we give no trouble to those who, from among the Gentiles, have turned to God; but that we write to them to abstain from pollutions of idols, and from lewdness, and from what is strangled, and from blood. For, from ancient times, Moses has, in every city, those who preach him, being read in the synagogue every sabbath-day. Then it pleased the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to send to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, chosen men from among themselves; Judas, who was surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren; and they wrote by their hands as follows: The apostles, and the elders, and the brethren, to the brethren of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting: Inasmuch as we have heard that certain persons went out from us and troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, That you must be circumcised, and keep the law, to whom we gave no commandment, it has seemed good to us, having come together with one mind, to send chosen men to you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have en dangered their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent, therefore, Judas and Silas, who will tell you the same things in word. For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: That you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what is strangled, and from lewdness; from which if you keep yourselves carefully, you will do well. Farewell.
Then, fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and I took Titus also with me. And I went up because of a revelation, and communicated to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who are of reputation, lest, by any means, I should run or had run in vain. read more. But not even Titus, who was with me, though he was a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. I acted thus indeed on account of false brethren, stealthily brought in, who stole in to spy out our freedom, which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage, to whom we yielded in submission, not even for an hour, in order that the truth of the gospel might remain with you. But from those who were supposed to be something; (what they were is a matter of no importance to me: God does not accept the person of man;) they, indeed, who were supposed to be something, communicated no additional truth to me; but; on the other hand, seeing that I was intrusted with the gospel of the uncircumcision, as Peter was with that of the circumcision, (for he who gave efficiency to Peter, for the apostleship of the circumcision, gave efficiency to me also, as an apostle for the Gentiles,) and knowing the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles, but they to the circumcision, requesting only that we would remember the poor, which same thing I have been diligent in doing. But when Peter came to Antioch, I openly opposed him, because he had incurred blame. For, before certain persons came from James, he ate- with the Gentiles: but, when they had come, he withdrew, and separated himself, because he feared those who were of the circumcision. And the other Jews, also, acted hypocritically with him, so that even Barnabas was led away by their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they did not walk uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter, before them all: If you, being a Jew, live after the manner of the Gentiles, and not after the manner of the Jews, why do you compel the Gen tiles to observe Jewish customs? We, who are Jews by birth, and not Gentile sinners, knowing that a man is not justified by works of law, but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed on Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of law: because, by works of law no flesh shall be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves are also found sinners, is Christ, there fore, the minister of sin? It can not be. For if I build again those things which I have destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For, through law, I have died to law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ, yet I live; no longer I, but Christ lives in me. And the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God: for if righteousness be through law, then Christ has died in vain.
Morish
The son of Jonas and one of the twelve apostles. His name was originally Simon, and apparently at his first interview with the Lord he received from Him the surname CEPHAS. This is an Aramaic word, the same as Peter in Greek, both signifying 'a stone.' Joh 1:42. (In Ac 10:5 he is called "Simon, whose surname is Peter.") The next notice of Peter is in Luke 5 when he was called to the apostleship. Overpowered at the draught of fishes, he exclaimed, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord;" but at the bidding of Christ he forsook all and followed Him. Mt 4:18; Mr 1:16-17; Lu 5:3-11.
He had a sort of prominence among the apostles: when a few of them were selected for any special occasion, Peter was always one of them, and is named first. The three names 'Peter, James, and John' occur often together, still we do not read of Peter having any authority over the others: cf. Mt 20:25-28. Peter was in character energetic and impulsive: he wanted to walk on the water to go to Christ, and his strong affection for the Lord led him to oppose when the Lord spoke of His coming sufferings, for which he was rebuked as presenting Satan's mind. His self-confidence led him into a path of temptation, in which he thrice denied his Lord. But the Lord had prayed for him that his faith should not fail, and his repentance was real and instant. He was fully restored by the Lord, who significantly demanded thrice if he loved Him, and then committed to him the care of His sheep and His lambs. John 21.
When Peter confessed to Jesus, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God," the Lord said that He would build His church upon that foundation, and added, "I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven," with assurance that what he bound or loosed on earth would be ratified in heaven. Matt. 16. On the day of Pentecost we find Peter accordingly using these keys, and opening to three thousand Jews the doors of the kingdom. He afterwards admitted Gentiles in the person of Cornelius and those that were gathered with him.
Peter was the apostle of the circumcision, as Paul was of the Gentiles, and was a long time getting entirely clear of Jewish prejudices. Paul had to withstand him to the face at Antioch, for refusing under Jewish influence to continue eating with Gentiles. On the other hand, Peter, while confessing that in some of Paul's writings there were things hard to be understood, recognises them as scripture.
In the beginning of the Acts Peter's boldness in testimony is conspicuous. He was leaning on One stronger than himself and was carried on by the power of the Holy Spirit. He was miraculously delivered out of prison. The Lord had intimated to him that he would die the death of a martyr (Joh 21:19), and historians relate that he was crucified, and with his head downward by his own request: they also state that his wife died with him. He was the writer of the two epistles bearing his name.
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And as he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishers.
But Jesus called them to him, and said: You know that the rulers of the Gentiles act as lords over them, and their great men have authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever will be great among you, let him be your minister. read more. And whoever will be first among you, let him be your servant; even as the Son of man came, not to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
And as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon, and Andrew the brother of Simon, throwing a net about in the sea; for they were fishers. And Jesus said to them: Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.
And he entered one of the ships, which was Simon s, and requested him to push out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitude from the ship. And when he had made an end of speaking, he said to Simon: Push out into the deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. read more. And Simon answered and said to him: Master, we have toiled all night and have caught nothing; but at thy command, I will let down the net. And when they had done this, they inclosed a great number of fishes, and their net began to break; and they beckoned to their partners who were in the other ship, to come and help them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. And when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at the knees of Jesus, and said: Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For amazement at the draught of fishes which they had caught had seized upon him and all that were with him; and in like manner also upon James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon: Fear not; from this time forth you shall catch men. And when they had brought their ships to the land, they left all and followed him.
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
But this he said, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he said to him: Follow me.
Smith
Pe'ter
(a rock or stone). The original name of this disciple was Simon, i.e. "hearer." He was the son of a man named Jonas,
Mt 16:17; Joh 1:42; 21:16
and was brought up in his father's occupation, that of a fisherman. He and his brother Andrew were partners of John end James, the sons of Zebedee, who had hired servants. Peter did not live, as a mere laboring man, in a hut by the seaside, but first at Bethsaida, and afterward in a house at Capernaum belonging to himself or his mother-in-law, which must have been rather a large one, since he received in it not only our Lord and his fellow disciples, but multitudes who were attracted by the miracles and preaching of Jesus. Peter was probably between thirty and forty pears of age at the date of his call. That call was preceded by a special preparation. Peter and his brother Andrew, together with their partners James and John, the sons ,of Zebedee, were disciples of John the Baptist when he was first called by our Lord. The particulars of this are related with graphic minuteness by St. John. It was upon this occasion that Jesus gave Peter the name Cephas, a Syriac word answering to the Greek Peter, and signifying a stone or rock.
Joh 1:35-42
This first call led to no immediate change in Peter's external position. He and his fellow disciples looked henceforth upon our Lord as their teacher, but were not commanded to follow him as regular disciples. They returned to Capernaum, where they pursued their usual business, waiting for a further intimation of his will. The second call is recorded by the other three evangelists; the narrative of Luke being apparently supplementary to the brief and, so to speak official accounts given by Matthew and Mark. It took place on the Sea of Galilee near Capernaum, where the four disciples Peter and Andrew, James and John were fishing. Some time was passed afterward in attendance upon our Lord's public ministrations in Galilee, Decapolis, Peraea and Judea. The special designation of Peter and his eleven fellow disciples took place some time afterward, when they were set apart as our Lord's immediate attendants. See
(the most detailed account); Luke 6:13 They appear to have then first received formally the name of apostles, and from that time Simon bore publicly, and as it would seem all but exclusively, the name Peter, which had hitherto been used rather as a characteristic appellation than as a proper name. From this time there can be no doubt that Peter held the first place among the apostles, to whatever cause his precedence is to be attributed. He is named first in every list of the apostles; he is generally addressed by our Lord as their representative; and on the most solemn occasions he speaks in their name. The distinction which he received, and it may be his consciousness of ability, energy, zeal and absolute devotion to Christ's person, seem to have developed a natural tendency to rashness and forwardness bordering upon resumption. In his affection and self-confidence Peter ventured to reject as impossible the announcement of the sufferings and humiliation which Jesus predicted, and heard the sharp words, "Get thee behind me, Satan; thou art an offence unto me, for thou savorest not the things that be of God but those that be of men." It is remarkable that on other occasions when St. Peter signalized his faith and devotion, he displayed at the time, or immediately afterward, a more than usual deficiency in spiritual discernment and consistency. Toward the close of our Lord's ministry Peter's characteristics become especially prominent. At the last supper Peter seems to have been particularly earnest in the request that the traitor might be pointed out. After the supper his words drew out the meaning of the significant act of our Lord in washing his disciples' feet. Then too it was that he made those repeated protestations of unalterable fidelity, so soon to be falsified by his miserable fall. On the morning of the resurrection we have proof that Peter, though humbled, was not crushed by his fall. He and John were the first to visit the sepulchre; he was the first who entered it. We are told by Luke and by Paul that Christ appeared to him first among the apostles. It is observable; however, that on that occasion he is called by his original name, Simon not Peter; the higher designation was not restored until he had been publicly reinstituted, so to speak, by his Master. That reinstitution--an event of the very highest import-took place at the Sea of Galilee. John 21. The first part of the Acts of the Apostles is occupied by the record of transactions in nearly all forth as the recognized leader of the apostles. He is the most prominent person in the greatest event after the resurrection, when on the day of Pentecost the Church was first invested with the plenitude of gifts and power. When the gospel was first preached beyond the precincts of Judea, he and John were at once sent by the apostles to confirm the converts at Samaria. Henceforth he remains prominent, but not exclusively prominent, among the propagators of the gospel. We have two accounts of the first meeting of Peter and Paul --
This interview was followed by another event marking Peter's position --a general apostolical tour of visitation to the churches hitherto established.
The most signal transaction after the day of Pentecost was the baptism of Cornelius. That was the crown and consummation of Peter's ministry. The establishment of a church in great part of Gentile origin at Antioch and the mission of Barnabas between whose family and Peter there were the bonds of near intimacy, set the seal upon the work thus inaugurated by Peter. This transaction was soon followed by the imprisonment of our apostle. His miraculous deliverance marks the close of this second great period of his ministry. The special work assigned to him was completed. From that time we have no continuous history of him. Peter was probably employed for the most part in building up and completing the organization of Christian communities in Palestine and the adjoining districts. There is, however strong reason to believe that he visited Corinth at an early period. The name of Peter as founder or joint founder is not associated with any local church save the churches of Corinth, Antioch or Rome, by early ecclesiastical tradition. It may be considered as a settled point that he did not visit Rome before the last year of his life; but there is satisfactory evidence that he and Paul were the founders of the church at Rome, and suffered death in that city. The time and manner of the apostle's martyrdom are less certain. According to the early writers, he suffered at or about the same time with Paul, and in the Neronian persecution, A.D. 67,68. All agree that he was crucified. Origen says that Peter felt himself to be unworthy to be put to death in the same manner as his Master, and was therefore, at his own request, crucified with his head downward. The apostle is said to have employed interpreters. Of far more importance is the statement that Mark wrote his Gospel under the teaching of Peter, or that he embodied in that Gospel the substance of our apostle's oral instructions. [MARK]
See Mark, Gospel of
The only written documents which Peter has left are the First Epistle-- about which no doubt has ever been entertained in the Church-- and the Second, which has been a subject of earnest controversy.
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Now these are the names of the twelve apostles: the first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphseus, and Lebbceus, who was surnamed Thaddaeus; read more. Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also delivered him up.
And Jesus answered and said to him: Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
And he went up into a mountain, and called to him such as he wished, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, read more. and to have authority to cure diseases, and to cast out demons. And Simon he surnamed Peter; and James the sou of Zebedee, and John the brother of James: and these he surnamed Boanerges, which means, sons of thunder: and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the Son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also delivered him up. And they went into a house:
Again the next day, John was standing with two of his disciples. And looking on Jesus as he walked, he said: Be hold the Lamb of God. read more. And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. And Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them: What do you seek? They said to him: Rabbi, (which, when translated, is called Teacher,) where abidest thou? He said to them: Come and see. They went and saw where he abode; and they remained with him that day; for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;)
He said to him again a second time: Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me? He said to him: Yes, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Be a shepherd to my sheep.
And having come to Jerusalem, he attempted to associate with the disciples: and they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple.
And it came to pass that Peter, passing through all the places, came down also to the saints that dwelt in Lydda.
Watsons
PETER, the great Apostle of the circumcision, was the son of Jona, and born at Bethsaida, a town situated on the western shore of the lake of Gennesareth, but in what particular year we are not informed, Joh 1:42-43. His original name was Simon or Simeon, which his divine Master, when he called him to the Apostleship, changed for that of Cephas, a Syriac word signifying a stone or rock; in Latin, petra, from whence is derived the term Peter. He was a married man, and had his house, his mother-in-law and his wife, at Capernaum, on the lake of Gennesareth, Mt 8:14; Mr 1:29; Lu 4:38. He had also a brother of the name of Andrew, who had been a disciple of John the Baptist, and was called to the knowledge of the Saviour prior to himself. Andrew was present when the venerable Baptist pointed his disciples to Jesus, and added. "Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world;" and, meeting Simon shortly afterward, said, "We have found the Messiah," and then brought him to Jesus, Joh 1:41. When the two brothers had passed one day with the Lord Jesus, they took their leave of him, and returned to their ordinary occupation of fishing. This appears to have taken place in the thirtieth year of the Christian era. Toward the end of the same year, as Jesus was one morning standing on the shore of the lake of Gennesareth, he saw Andrew and Peter engaged about their employment. They had been fishing during the whole night, but without the smallest success; and, after this fruitless expedition, were in the act of washing their nets, Lu 5:1-3. Jesus entered into their boat, and bade Peter throw out his net into the sea, which he did; and now, to his astonishment, the multitude of fishes was so immense that their own vessel, and that of the sons of Zebedee, were filled with them. Peter evidently saw there was something supernatural in this, and, throwing himself at the feet of Jesus, he exclaimed, "Depart from me, O Lord, for I am a sinful man." The miracle was no doubt intended for a sign to the four disciples of what success should afterward follow their ministry in preaching the doctrine of his kingdom; and therefore Jesus said unto them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men;" on which they quitted their boats and nets, and thenceforth became the constant associates of the Saviour, during the whole of his public ministry, Lu 18:28.
From the instant of his entering upon the apostolic office, we find St. Peter on almost every occasion evincing the strength of his faith in Jesus as the Messiah, and the most extraordinary zeal in his service, of which many examples are extant in the Gospels. When Jesus in private asked his disciples, first, what opinion the people entertained of him; next, what was their own opinion: "Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God," Mt 16:16. Having received this answer, Jesus declared Peter blessed on account of his faith; and in allusion to the signification of his name, added, "Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth," &c. Many think these things were spoken to St. Peter alone, for the purpose of conferring on him privileges and powers not granted to the rest of the Apostles. But others, with more reason, suppose that, though Jesus directed his discourse to St. Peter, it was intended for them all; and that the honours and powers granted to St. Peter by name were conferred on them all equally. For no one will say that Christ's church was built upon St. Peter singly: it was built on the foundation of all the Apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. As little can any one say that the power of binding and loosing was confined to St. Peter, seeing it was declared afterward to belong to all the Apostles, Mt 18:18; Joh 20:23. To these things add this, that as St. Peter made his confession in answer to a question which Jesus put to all the Apostles, that confession was certainly made in the name of the whole; and, therefore, what Jesus said to him in reply was designed for the whole without distinction; excepting this, which was peculiar to him, that he was to be the first who, after the descent of the Holy Ghost, should preach the Gospel to the Jews, and then to the Gentiles: an honour which was conferred on St. Peter in the expression, "I will give thee the keys," &c.
St. Peter was one of the three Apostles whom Jesus admitted to witness the resurrection of Jairus's daughter, and before whom he was transfigured, and with whom he retired to pray in the garden the night before he suffered. He was the person who in the fervour of his zeal for his Master cut off the ear of the high priest's slave, when the armed band came to apprehend him. Yet this same Peter, a few hours after that, denied his Master three different times in the high priest's palace, and that with oaths. In the awful defection of the Apostle on this occasion we have melancholy proof of the power of human depravity even in regenerate men, and of the weakness of human resolutions when left to ourselves. St. Peter was fully warned by his divine Master of his approaching danger; but confident in his own strength, he declared himself ready to accompany his Lord to prison and even to judgment. After the third denial "Jesus turned and looked upon Peter;" that look pierced him to the heart; and, stung with deep remorse, "he went out, and wept bitterly." St. Peter, however, obtained forgiveness; and, when Jesus had risen from the dead, he ordered the glad tidings of his resurrection to be conveyed to St. Peter by name: "Go tell my disciples and Peter," Mr 16:8. He afterward received repeated assurances of his Saviour's love, and from that time uniformly showed the greatest zeal and fortitude in his Master's service.
Soon after our Lord's ascension, in a numerous assembly of the Apostles and brethren, St. Peter gave it as his opinion, that one should be chosen to be an Apostle in the room of Judas. To this they all agreed; and, by lot, chose Matthias, whom on that occasion they numbered with the eleven Apostles. On the day of pentecost following, when the Holy Spirit fell on the Apostles and disciples, St. Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice; that is, St. Peter, rising up, spake with a loud voice, in the name of the Apostles, as he had done on various occasions in his Master's lifetime, and gave the multitude an account of that great miracle, Ac 2:14. St. Peter now began to experience the fulfilment of Christ's promise to make him a fisher of men, and also that he would give him the keys of the kingdom of heaven. His sermon on this occasion produced an abundant harvest of converts to Christ. Three thousand of his audience were pricked to the heart, and cried out, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" St. Peter proclaimed to them the riches of pardoning mercy through the divine blood of the Son of God; and they that gladly received his doctrine were baptized and added to the church, Ac 2:37-43. The effects produced on the mind of this great Apostle of the circumcision by the resurrection of his divine Master, and the consequent effusion of the Holy Spirit, were evidently of the most extraordinary kind, and such as it is impossible to account for upon natural principles. He was raised superior to all considerations of personal danger and the fear of man. And though all the Apostles could now say, "God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind;" yet an attentive reader of the Acts of the Apostles cannot fail to perceive that upon almost every occasion of difficulty St. Peter is exhibited to our view as standing foremost in the rank of Apostles. When St. Peter and John were brought before the council to be examined concerning the miracle wrought on the impotent man, St. Peter spake. It was St. Peter who questioned Ananias and Sapphira about the price of their lands; and for their lying in that matter, punished them miraculously with death. It is remarkable, also, that although by the hands of the Apostles many signs and wonders were wrough
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And when Jesus had come into Peter's house, he saw his mother-in-law lying, and ill of a fever.
Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Verily, I say to you, my disciples, Whatever you bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.
And forthwith, having gone out of the synagogue, they went into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.
And they went out, and fled from the sepulcher; for trembling and astonishment seized upon them. And they said nothing to any one, for they were afraid.
And he arose and went out of the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simon's mother-in-law was confined with a violent fever: and they besought him in her behalf.
And it came to pass while the multitude was pressing on him to hear the word of God, and he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, that he saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets. read more. And he entered one of the ships, which was Simon s, and requested him to push out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitude from the ship.
Then Peter said: Behold, we have left all and followed thee.
One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him: We have found the Messiah; (which, when translated, is the Christ;) read more. and he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking on him, said: You are Simon, the son of Jonah; you shall be called Cephas (which, when translated, is Rock).
Whosever sins you forgive, they are forgiven them: whosever sins you retain, they are retained.
But Peter standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice and said to them: Men of Judea, and all you that dwell in Jerusalem, be this known to you, and give ear to my words.
When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the other apostles: Brethren, what shall we do? And Peter said to them: Repent, and be immersed, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, in order to the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. read more. For the promise is to you, and your children, and to all that are afar off, as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying: Save yourselves from this wicked generation. Then they that gladly received his word were immersed, and on that day there were added to them about three thou sand souls. And they attended constantly to the teaching of the apostles, and the fellowship, and the breaking of bread, and the prayers. And fear came on every soul; and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
I mean this: that each one of you says, I am of Paul, and I of Apollos, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ.
whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are yours:
But when Peter came to Antioch, I openly opposed him, because he had incurred blame.
But when Peter came to Antioch, I openly opposed him, because he had incurred blame. For, before certain persons came from James, he ate- with the Gentiles: but, when they had come, he withdrew, and separated himself, because he feared those who were of the circumcision. read more. And the other Jews, also, acted hypocritically with him, so that even Barnabas was led away by their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they did not walk uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter, before them all: If you, being a Jew, live after the manner of the Gentiles, and not after the manner of the Jews, why do you compel the Gen tiles to observe Jewish customs? We, who are Jews by birth, and not Gentile sinners, knowing that a man is not justified by works of law, but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed on Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of law: because, by works of law no flesh shall be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves are also found sinners, is Christ, there fore, the minister of sin? It can not be. For if I build again those things which I have destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For, through law, I have died to law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ, yet I live; no longer I, but Christ lives in me. And the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God: for if righteousness be through law, then Christ has died in vain.