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/noyes'>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".
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And while walking by the lake of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake; for they were fishers. And he saith 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 Peters house, he saw his wifes mother lying sick of a fever.
And he said, Come. And Peter, coming down from the boat, walked on the water, and came to Jesus.
And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven. read more. And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it. I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Then Peter, taking him aside, 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 thee behind me, Satan! thou art my stumblingblock; for thy thoughts are not on the things of God, but on those of men.
Truly do I say to you, Whatever ye shall bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever ye shall loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Then he began to curse and to swear, saying, I do not know the man. And immediately a cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, who had said, Before a cock crows, thou wilt thrice deny me. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And he arose and went from the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simons wifes mother was seized with a great fever; and they besought him for her.
And it came to pass, as the multitude was pressing upon him and hearing the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them, and had washed the nets. read more. And going into one of the boats, which was Simons, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And sitting down in the boat, he taught the multitudes. And when he had done speaking, he said to Simon, Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing; but at thy word I will let down the nets. And having done this, they inclosed great multitude of fishes; and their nets began to break. And they beckoned to their partners in the other boat, to come and help them; and they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. And Simon Peter seeing it fell down at the knees of Jesus, saying, Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For he and all that were with him were amazed at the draught of fishes, which they had taken; and so were also James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon And Jesus said to Simon, Fear not; henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything, and followed him.
He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
Jesus therefore said to the twelve, Do ye also wish to go away? Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast words of everlasting life; read more. and we have believed and known, that thou art the Holy One of God.
Peter saith to him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thee. Jesus answereth, Wilt thou lay down thy life for me? Truly, truly do I say to thee, A cock will not crow, till thou hast thrice denied me.
Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and smote the servant of the highpriest, and cut off his right ear. And the servants name was Malchus.
Whosever sins ye remit, they are remitted to them; whosever ye retain, they are retained.
So when they had breakfasted, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep. read more. He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my sheep. Truly, truly do I say to thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldst; but when thou hast grown old, thou wilt stretch forth thy hands, and another will gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst 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 in respect to a good deed done to a cripple, by what means he hath been restored, 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 ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead,by him doth this man stand here before you sound. This is the stone which was set at nought by you the builders, which is become a cornerstone. And there is salvation in no other; for there is not another name under heaven, that hath been given among men, by which we must be saved. And when they beheld the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and common men, they wondered; and they recognized them as having been with Jesus. And seeing the man that had been cured standing with them, they could say nothing in reply. But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a remarkable sign hath been wrought by them is manifest to all that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. But that it spread no further among the people, let us strictly forbid them with threats to speak any longer in this name to any one. And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all, nor teach, in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken to you rather than to God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we saw and heard. So, having further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, on account of the people; because all were glorifying God for 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, his wife also having knowledge of it; and brought a certain part, and laid it at the feet of the apostles. read more. But Peter said, Ananias, why did Satan fill thy heart that thou shouldst lie to the Holy Spirit, and keep back part of the price of the land? While it remained, was it not thine own? And after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? Why didst thou conceive this thing in thy heart? Thou didst not lie to men, but to God. And Ananias, hearing these words, fell down, and expired. And great fear came on all that heard of it. And the young men arose, and wrapt him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what had happened, came in. Peter said to her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much. And she said, Yes, for so much. And Peter said to her, Why is it that ye agreed together to try the Spirit of the Lord? Lo! the feet of those who have buried thy husband are at the door, and they will carry thee out. And she fell down immediately at his feet, and expired; and the young men, when they came in, found her dead, and carried her out, and buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon all that heard of these things.
And Philip went down to a city of Samaria, and preached to them the Christ. And the multitudes with one accord gave heed to the things spoken by Philip, when they heard and saw the signs which he wrought. read more. For from many that had unclean spirits came they out crying with a loud voice; and many that were palsied, and that were lame, were cured. And there was great joy in that city. But before their arrival a certain man, named Simon, was in the city, a man practising sorcery, and amazing the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was some great person; to whom they gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the Power of God, which is called Great. And to him they gave heed, because they had for a long time been amazed by his sorceries. But when they believed Philip, publishing the glad tidings concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. And Simon himself also believed, and having been baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed when he beheld the miracles and signs which were wrought. And the apostles at Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John; who, having come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For it had not yet fallen upon any of them; but they had only been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. But Simon, seeing that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles hands, offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him, Thy money perish with thee! because thou didst think to obtain the gift of God with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if haply the thought of thy heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. And Simon answering said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of the things which ye have spoken may come upon me.
And it came to pass, that as Peter went through the whole country, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had lain on a bed eight years, and was palsied. read more. And Peter said to him, Aeneas, Jesus the Christ healeth thee; arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt in Lydda and Sharon saw him; and they turned to the Lord. Now at Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which name being interpreted is the same as Dorcas, that is, Gazelle. This woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she fell sick, and died; and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper chamber. And as Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent to him two men with the entreaty, Do not delay to come to us. Then Peter arose, and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber; and all the widows came to him weeping, and showing the coats and cloaks which Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and seeing Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and raised her up; and calling the saints and the widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon, a tanner.
And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to apprehend Peter also; (then were the days of unleavened bread;) and he seized him and put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after the passover to bring him forth to the people. read more. Peter therefore was kept guarded in prison; but earnest prayer was made by the church to God in his behalf. And when Herod was about to bring him forth, on that night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and keepers before the door were guarding the prison. And lo! an angel of the Lord came to him, and a light shone in the room; and he smote Peter on the side, and roused him, saying, Rise up quickly. And his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals; and he did so. And he saith to him, Throw thy garment round thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he saw a vision. And when they had passed the first, and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leadeth to the city, which opened to them of itself; and they went out and passed on through one street, and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, Now I know certainly, that the Lord hath sent forth his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And when he understood the matter, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, surnamed Mark, where many were gathered together, and praying. And as he knocked at the door of the gate, a maidservant came to listen, named Rhoda; and recognizing Peters voice, she opened not the gate for gladness; but ran in, and told them that Peter was standing before the gate. And they said to her, Thou art mad. But she positively affirmed that it was even so. Then they said, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking; and opening the door, they saw him, and were amazed. But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place. And when it was day, there was no small commotion among the soldiers, as to what had become of Peter. And Herod, when he had sought for him and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be led away [to execution]. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and there abode.
And after much debate, Peter rose up and said to them, Brethren, ye know that a long time ago God made choice among you, that by my mouth the gentiles should hear the word of the glad tidings, and believe. And God, who knoweth the heart, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, as he gave it to us; read more. and made no difference between us and them, having purified their hearts by faith.
and made no difference between us and them, having purified their hearts by faith. Now therefore why do ye provoke the anger of God, by putting a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? read more. But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same manner as they.
Simeon hath related how God first visited the gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
What I mean is this, that each of you saith, 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 a right to carry about with us a sister as a wife, as well as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised;
and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone;
The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, my son.
And the wall of the city had twelve foundationstones, and on them the twelve 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
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And while walking by the lake of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake; for they were fishers. And he saith to them, Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.
And he saith 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 from thence, he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the boat and their father, and followed him.
For he taught them as having authority, and not as their scribes.
And when Jesus had come into Peters house, he saw his wifes mother lying sick of a fever.
Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus; read more. Simon of Cana, and Judas Iscariot, he who betrayed him.
And Jesus, having come into the region of Caesarea Philippi, asked his disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is? And they said, Some, John the Baptist; but some, Elijah; and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. read more. He saith to them, But who do ye say that I am? And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.
And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven. And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it. read more. I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Then he charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. From that time Jesus began to show to his disciples, that he must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be put to death, and rise again on the third day. Then Peter, taking him aside, 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 thee behind me, Satan! thou art my stumblingblock; for thy thoughts are not on the things of God, but on those of men.
And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John his brother, and leadeth them up into a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone as the sun; and his garments became white as the light. read more. And lo! there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter answering said to Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, I will make here three tents; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. While he was yet speaking, lo! a bright cloud overshadowed them; and lo! a voice out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; hear him." And the disciples hearing it, fell on their face, and were exceedingly afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And lifting up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell what hath been seen to no one, until the Son of man hath risen from the dead.
And when they had come to Capernaum, those who received the halfshekel came to Peter, and said, Doth not your teacher pay the halfshekel? He saith, Yes. And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes? Of their own sons, or of strangers?
He saith, Yes. And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes? Of their own sons, or of strangers? And when he said, Of strangers, Jesus said to him, Then are the sons free. read more. But that we may not give them offence, go to the lake, and cast a hook, and take the fish that first cometh up; and on opening his mouth, thou wilt find a shekel; take that, and give it to them for me and thee.
But the chief priests and the scribes, when they saw the wonderful things which he did, and the children that were crying out in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David, were much displeased; and said to him, Dost thou hear what these say? But Jesus saith to them, Yea; did ye never read, "From the mouth of babes and sucklings thou didst prepare praise"? read more. And he left them, and went out of the city to Bethany, and lodged there.
among whom was Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
And having come out of the synagogue, they immediately entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. And Simons wifes mother lay sick of a fever; and they immediately speak to him about her.
And after some days he again entered Capernaum; and it was reported that he was in the house.
And not being able to bring him to him on account of the crowd, they took off the roof where he was; and when they had broken an opening, they let down the bed whereon the palsied man lay.
And he goeth up into the mountain, and calleth to him whom he would; and they came to him. And he appointed twelve to be with him, and whom he might send forth to preach, read more. and to have authority to cast out demons. And he appointed the twelve, and Simon he surnamed Peter; and James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, that is, Sons of thunder; and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon of Cana, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. And he cometh into the house.
And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, saying to them, Who do men say that I am? And they answered him, saying, John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and others, One of the prophets. read more. And he asked them, But who do ye say that I am? Peter answering saith to him, Thou art the Christ. And he strictly 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 told them this plainly. And Peter, taking him aside, began to rebuke him. But he turning about and looking at his disciples, rebuked Peter, and saith, Get thee behind me, Satan! for thy thoughts are not on the things of God, but on those of men.
And he cometh and findeth them sleeping; and he saith to Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? Couldst not thou watch one hour?
And he denied it again. And shortly after, those who were standing by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them; for thou art a Galilaean.
There were also women looking on from a distance; among whom was Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;
And when the sabbath was past, Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, that they might come and anoint him.
And they all spoke in his praise, and wondered at the words of grace which proceeded from his mouth; and they said, Is not this Josephs son?
And he arose and went from the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simons wifes mother was seized with a great fever; and they besought him for her.
And Simon Peter seeing it fell down at the knees of Jesus, saying, Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.
And when it was day, he called to him his disciples; and he chose from them twelve, whom he also named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip and Bartholomew, read more. and Matthew and Thomas, and James the Son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the zealot, and Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
And it came to pass as he was in a private place praying, that his disciples were with him; and he asked them, saying, Who do the multitudes say that I am? And they answering said, John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and others, that one of the old prophets hath risen. read more. And he said to them, But who do ye say that I am? And Peter answering 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 and make ready for us the passover, that we may eat it. read more. And they said to him, Where wilt thou that we make it ready? And he said to them, Lo! when ye have entered the city, there will meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he goeth in; and ye shall say to the master of the house, The Teacher saith to thee, Where is the guestchamber, where 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.
Simon, Simon, lo! Satan hath asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.
Simon, Simon, lo! Satan hath asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. And do thou, when thou hast returned to me, strengthen thy brethren. read more. And he said to him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee both to prison and to death. And he said, I tell thee, Peter, a cock will not crow this day, till thou hast thrice denied that thou knowest me.
And going out, he went, as he was wont, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. And when he was at the place, he said to them, Pray that ye may not enter into temptation. read more. And he withdrew from them about a stones throw; and kneeling down he prayed, saying, Father, if thou art willing to remove this cup from meyet not my will, but thine be done! And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly. And his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling to the ground. And rising up from prayer, he came to the disciples, and found them sleeping for sorrow, and said to them, Why sleep ye? Rise, and pray that ye may not enter into temptation. While he was yet speaking, lo! a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, was at the head of them; and he drew near to Jesus to kiss him. But Jesus said to him, Judas, dost thou betray the Son of man with a kiss? And they who were about him, seeing what would follow, said, Lord, shall we smite with the sword? And one of them smote the servant of the highpriest, and cut off his right ear. But Jesus answering said, Permit thus far; and touched his ear, and healed him.
And they seized him, and led him away, and brought him into the house of the highpriest. And Peter followed afar off. And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the court, and had sat down together, Peter sat down among them. read more. But a certain maidservant saw him sitting at the fire, and steadily looking at him said, This man also was with him. And he denied him, saying, Woman, I do not know him. And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou also art one of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. And in about one hours time, another confidently affirmed, saying, In truth this man also was with him; for he is a Galilaean. And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he was yet speaking, a cock crew. And the Lord turned and looked upon Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, that he had said to him, Before a cock crows this day, thou wilt thrice deny me.
And returning from the tomb, they told all these things to the eleven, and to all the rest. It was Mary the Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James; and the other women with them told these things to the apostles. read more. And these words seemed to them as an idle tale, and they did not believe them. (...)
saying, The Lord hath risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.
These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing. The next day he seeth Jesus coming to him, and saith, Behold, the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world! read more. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man, who hath gone before me; for he was before me. And I knew him not; but that he might be made manifest to Israel, therefore I came baptizing in water. And John bore witness, saying, I have seen the Spirit descending as a dove from heaven, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not; but he who sent me to baptize in water, the same said to me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending and abiding on him, he it is that baptizeth in the Holy Spirit. And I have seen and have borne witness, that this is the Son of God. On the morrow John was again standing, and two of his disciples; and looking upon Jesus as he was walking, he saith, Behold, the Lamb of God!
One of the two who heard what John said, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peters brother. He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah; (which is, when interpreted, the Christ.)
He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah; (which is, when interpreted, the Christ.) He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
From this time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Jesus therefore said to the twelve, Do ye also wish to go away? read more. Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast words of everlasting life; and we have believed and known, that thou art the Holy One of God.
But on the first day of the week Mary the Magdalene cometh early, while it was yet dark, to the tomb, and seeth that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. She runneth therefore, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith to them, They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we know not where they have laid him. read more. Peter therefore went forth, and the other disciple, and they set out for the tomb. And they ran both together; and the other disciple outran Peter, and came first to the tomb. And stooping down, he seeth the linen cloths lying; but he did not go in. Then cometh also Simon Peter following him, and he went into the tomb; and he beholdeth the linen cloths lying, and the napkin that was about his head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded up in a place by itself. Then therefore went in also the other disciple, who came first to the tomb; and he saw, and believed. For not even yet did they know the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead. So the disciples went away again to their home.
After these things he manifested himself again to the disciples at the lake of Tiberias. And he manifested himself in this manner. There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana of Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. read more. Simon Peter saith to them, I am going a fishing. They say to him, We also will go with thee. They set out and went into the boat, and on that night caught nothing. But when the morning was coming on, Jesus stood on the shore; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Then Jesus saith to them, Children, have ye any fish? They answered him, No. And he said to them, Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and ye will find. And they cast it, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of the fishes. Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith to Peter, It is the Lord. Simon Peter therefore, hearing that it was the Lord, girded on his outer garment, for he had on nothing but his under one, and threw himself into the lake. And the other disciples came in the boat, (for they were not far from land, only about two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with the fishes. When therefore they had come to land, they see a fire of coals there, and a fish lying thereon, and bread. Jesus saith to them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. Simon Peter therefore went on board, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, a hundred and fifty three; and though there were so many, the net was not broken. Jesus saith to them, Come and breakfast. But no one of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. Jesus cometh and taketh the bread, and giveth them, and the fish likewise. This is now the third time that Jesus manifested himself to his disciples, after he had risen from the dead. So when they had breakfasted, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep. He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my sheep. Truly, truly do I say to thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldst; but when thou hast grown old, thou wilt stretch forth thy hands, and another will gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst not. This he said, signifying by what manner of death he was to glorify God. And having thus spoken, he saith to him, Follow me.
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren, and said, (the number of the names together was about one hundred and twenty,) Brethren, it was necessary that this scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit through the mouth of David spoke before concerning Judas, who became guide to those who took Jesus. read more. For he was numbered among us, and obtained the allotment of this ministry. Now this man purchased a field with the wages of the iniquity; and falling headlong he burst asunder in the middle, and all his bowels gushed out. And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that that field is called in their own tongue, Aceldamach, that is, Field of Blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, "Let his habitation be made desolate, and let no one dwell therein;" and, "Let another take his office." Of these men, therefore, who accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us, must one be made a witness with us of his resurrection. And they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed saying, Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show which of these two thou hast chosen to take the part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell away, that he might go to his own place. And they cast lots for them; and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
And they were amazed, and marveled, saying, Behold, are not all these who speak Galilaeans?
But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said to them, Men of Judea, and all that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known to you, and hearken to my words. For these are not drunken, as ye suppose; for it is the third hour of the day; read more. but this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel, "It shall be in the last days, saith God, that I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, and your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams; and even on my servants, and on my handmaids, I will pour out of my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs on the earth beneath, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke; the sun will be turned into darkness and the moon into blood, before the day of the Lord cometh, the great and notable day. And it shall be that every one that calleth on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Men of Israel, hear these words! Jesus the Nazarene, a man approved of God to you by miracles, and wonders, and signs, which God wrought by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves know, this man, being delivered up by the settled purpose and foreknowledge of God, ye, by the hand of godless men, crucified and slew. But God raised him up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be held by it. For David saith concerning him, "I saw the Lord always before me; because he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue exulted; moreover also, my flesh shall dwell in hope; because thou wilt not abandon my soul to the underworld, nor wilt thou 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 speak to you with freedom of the patriarch David, that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is among us to this day. Being then a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn to him with an oath that he would set one sprung from his loins upon his throne, he foresaw and spoke of the resurrection of Christ, that neither was he abandoned to the underworld, nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Being therefore exalted by the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, he hath poured forth this, which ye both see and hear. For David did not ascend into the heavens; but he himself saith, The Lord said to my lord, "Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool." Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom ye crucified. And when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what must we do? But Peter said to them, Repent, and let every one of you be baptized to the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sins, and ye will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to 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 perverse generation.
And when they beheld the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and common men, they wondered; and they recognized them as having been with Jesus.
But Peter and John answered and said to them, Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken to you rather than to God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we saw and heard.
But the highpriest and all that were with him, which is the sect of the Sadducees, rose up and were filled with indignation, and laid hands on the apostles, and put them in the public prison. read more. But an angel of the Lord in the night opened the prisondoors, and brought them forth and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And hearing this, they went into the temple at daybreak and taught. But the highpriest and they that were with him came and called together the council, and all the elders of the sons of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.
But Peter and the apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew by hanging him on a cross; read more. him hath God exalted by his right hand, as a Leader and Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit which God hath given to those who obey him.
And the apostles at Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John; who, having come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. read more. For it had not yet fallen upon any of them; but they had only been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. But Simon, seeing that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles hands, offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him, Thy money perish with thee! because thou didst think to obtain the gift of God with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if haply the thought of thy heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. And Simon answering said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of the things which ye have spoken may come upon me. They then, when they had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, were returning to Jerusalem, and publishing the glad tidings in many villages of the Samaritans.
And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join himself to the disciples; and they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and related to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that he had spoken to him, and hew he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. read more. And he was with them going in and out at Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. And he often spoke and disputed with the Hellenists; but they were endeavoring to slay him. But the brethren obtaining knowledge of it, brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.
And it came to pass, that as Peter went through the whole country, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had lain on a bed eight years, and was palsied. read more. And Peter said to him, Aeneas, Jesus the Christ healeth thee; arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt in Lydda and Sharon saw him; and they turned to the Lord. Now at Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which name being interpreted is the same as Dorcas, that is, Gazelle. This woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she fell sick, and died; and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper chamber. And as Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent to him two men with the entreaty, Do not delay to come to us. Then Peter arose, and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber; and all the widows came to him weeping, and showing the coats and cloaks which Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and seeing Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and raised her up; and calling the saints and the widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon, a tanner.
Send therefore to Joppa, and call for Simon, who is surnamed Peter; he lodgeth in the house of Simon a tanner, by the seaside; and he, when he cometh, will speak to thee.
And the apostles and the brethren throughout Judaea heard that the gentiles also had received the word of God. And when Peter went up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, read more. saying, Thou didst go in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. But Peter rehearsed the matter to them in order from the beginning, saying, I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, a sort of vessel descending, as it were a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners, and it came even to me; on which fixing my eyes, I observed, and saw the fourfooted beasts of the earth, and the wild beasts, and the creeping things, and the birds of the air. And I also heard a voice saying to me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. But I said, Not so, Lord; for nothing common or unclean ever entered my mouth. But a voice answered the second time out of heaven, That which God hath cleansed, call not thou common. And this was done three times; and all were again drawn up into heaven. And lo! immediately there stood three men at the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea. And the Spirit bade me go with them. And these six brethren also came with me, and we entered the mans house. And he told us how he had seen the angel in his house, standing and saying to him, Send to Joppa, and call for Simon, surnamed Peter; who will speak to thee words by which thou shalt be saved, and all thy house. And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning. And I remembered the word of the Lord, that he said, John indeed baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized in the Holy Spirit. Since then God gave the like gift to them as to us, on believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I, that I could withstand God? And when they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, So then to the gentiles also God hath granted repentance unto life.
Now about that time, Herod the king laid his hands upon certain of the church, to oppress them. And he slew James, the brother of John, with the sword. read more. And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to apprehend Peter also; (then were the days of unleavened bread;) and he seized him and put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after the passover to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept guarded in prison; but earnest prayer was made by the church to God in his behalf. And when Herod was about to bring him forth, on that night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and keepers before the door were guarding the prison. And lo! an angel of the Lord came to him, and a light shone in the room; and he smote Peter on the side, and roused him, saying, Rise up quickly. And his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals; and he did so. And he saith to him, Throw thy garment round thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he saw a vision. And when they had passed the first, and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leadeth to the city, which opened to them of itself; and they went out and passed on through one street, and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, Now I know certainly, that the Lord hath sent forth his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And when he understood the matter, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, surnamed Mark, where many were gathered together, and praying. And as he knocked at the door of the gate, a maidservant came to listen, named Rhoda; and recognizing Peters voice, she opened not the gate for gladness; but ran in, and told them that Peter was standing before the gate. And they said to her, Thou art mad. But she positively affirmed that it was even so. Then they said, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking; and opening the door, they saw him, and were amazed. But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place. And when it was day, there was no small commotion among the soldiers, as to what had become of Peter. And Herod, when he had sought for him and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be led away [to execution]. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and there abode.
And there came down certain men from Judaea, and taught the brethren, Unless ye are circumcised after the custom of Moses, ye cannot be saved. But when Paul and Barnabas had had no small dissension and debate with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of them, should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders about this question. read more. They therefore, having been sent forward by the church, passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren. And having come to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church, and by the apostles and elders, and they related what great things God had wrought with them. But there rose up certain believers of the sect of the Pharisees, saying, It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and the elders came together to consider this matter. And after much debate, Peter rose up and said to them, Brethren, ye know that a long time ago God made choice among you, that by my mouth the gentiles should hear the word of the glad tidings, and believe. And God, who knoweth the heart, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, as he gave it to us; and made no difference between us and them, having purified their hearts by faith. Now therefore why do ye provoke the anger of God, by putting a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same manner as they. And all the multitude became silent, and listened to Barnabas and Paul, while they related what great signs and wonders God had wrought among the gentiles by them. And after they had done speaking, James answered, saying, Brethren, hearken to me. Simeon hath related how God first visited the gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
Simeon hath related how God first visited the gentiles, to take out of 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 will rebuild the tabernacle of David which hath fallen; and I will rebuild its ruins, and will set it up; that the rest of men may seek after the Lord, and all the gentiles, who have been called by my name, saith the Lord, who doeth these things, which were known from the beginning." Wherefore my judgment is, that we should not trouble those who from among the gentiles are turning to God; but that we should write to them by letter to abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from that which hath been strangled, and from blood. For Moses from the times of old hath had in every city those who preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath. Then it was decided by the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from among themselves, and send them to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren. And they wrote by them, "The apostles, and the elders, and the brethren, to the brethren who are from the gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting. Whereas we have heard, that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, to whom we gave no command; it seemed good to us, having become of one mind, to choose men and send them to you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who will themselves tell you the same things by word of mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us, to lay upon you no further burden except these necessary things: to abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication; from which if ye keep yourselves, ye will do well. Farewell." They therefore being sent away came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter. And when they had read it, they rejoiced over the encouragement.
Have we not a right to carry about with us a sister as a wife, as well as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
Then, after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to become acquainted with Cephas, and stayed with him fifteen days;
Then, fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus also with me. And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the gentiles; but privately to those who were 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; and that because of the false brethren stealthily brought in, who crept in to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring into bondage; to whom not even for an hour did we yield by the required subjection, that the truth of the gospel might still remain with you. But from those who were reputed to be somewhatwhatever they were, it matters not to me, (God accepteth no mans person,) for to me those in reputation communicated nothing new. But on the contrary, when they saw that I was intrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, as Peter was with that to the circumcised, (for he who wrought for Peter in behalf of the apostleship to the circumcised, wrought also for me in behalf of the gentiles,) and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised; only they wished us to remember the poor; which very thing I also was earnest to do. But when Cephas came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face; for he was condemned. For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the other Jews also dissembled with him; so that even Barnabas was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they were not walking uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of gentiles, and not that of the Jews, how is it that thou compellest the gentiles to keep the customs of the Jews? We are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the gentiles; but knowing that a man is not accepted as righteous by the works of the Law, but by faith in Christ Jesus, we also have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be accepted as righteous by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the Law; for by the works of the Law shall no flesh be accepted as righteous.
The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, my son.
The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, 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 taketh him m an exceeding high mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and their glory; and said to him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. read more. Then saith Jesus to him, Be gone, Satan! for it is written, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
And while walking by the lake of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake; for they were fishers. And he saith 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 from thence, he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the boat and their father, and followed him.
And when Jesus had come into Peters house, he saw his wifes mother lying sick of a fever.
Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus; read more. Simon of Cana, and Judas Iscariot, he who betrayed him.
And seeing him walking on the lake, they were dismayed, saying, It is a spectre; and they cried out for fear.
And he said, Come. And Peter, coming down from the boat, walked on the water, and came to Jesus.
And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.
And when they had come to Capernaum, those who received the halfshekel came to Peter, and said, Doth not your teacher pay the halfshekel? He saith, Yes. And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes? Of their own sons, or of strangers? read more. And when he said, Of strangers, Jesus said to him, Then are the sons free. But that we may not give them offence, go to the lake, and cast a hook, and take the fish that first cometh up; and on opening his mouth, thou wilt find a shekel; take that, and give it to them for me and thee.
Truly do I say to you, Whatever ye shall bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever ye shall loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
And lo! one came to him and said, Teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have everlasting life?
The young man saith to him, All these things have I kept; in what am I still wanting? Jesus said to him, If thou wilt be perfect, go, sell what thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me. read more. But the young man, on hearing this went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions. Then Jesus said to his disciples, Truly do I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter 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 the kingdom of heaven. And the disciples, hearing this, were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus, fixing his eyes on them, said, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Then Peter answering said to him, Lo! we left all, and followed thee; what then shall we have?
Peter answering said to him, Though all should fall away from thee, yet will I never fall away. Jesus said to him, Truly do I say to thee, that this night, before a cock crows, thou wilt thrice deny me. read more. Peter saith to him, Even if I must die with thee, I will not deny thee. And so said all the disciples.
Now Peter was sitting outside in the court. And a maidservant came to him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus the Galilaean.
And when he had gone out into the porch, another woman saw him, and said to those who were there, This man was with Jesus the Nazarene.
And shortly after, they who were standing by came and said to Peter, Surely thou too art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee.
And as he was passing along by the lake of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon dragging a net in the lake; for they were fishers. And Jesus said to them, Come after me, and I will cause you to become fishers of men. read more. And immediately they left their nets, and followed him. And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending the nets; and immediately he called them. And leaving their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, they went after him.
Peter began to say to him, Lo! we left all, and have followed thee.
But Peter said to him, Even if all shall fall away, yet will not I. And Jesus saith to him, Truly do I say to thee, that even thou, today, on this night, before a cock crow twice, wilt thrice deny me. read more. But he spoke the more vehemently: If I must die with thee, I will not deny thee. And so also said they all.
And as Peter was below in the court, there cometh one of the maidservants of the highpriest; and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, Thou too wast with the Nazarene, Jesus. read more. But he denied, saying, I do not know nor understand what thou sayest. And he went out into the forecourt; and a cock crew. And the maidservant, seeing him, began again to say to those who were standing by, This is one of them.
And immediately a cock crew a second time. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, Before a cock crows twice, thou wilt thrice deny me. And when he thought thereon, he wept.
But go, tell his disciples and Peter, that he is going before you into Galilee; there ye will see him, as he said to you.
And it came to pass, as the multitude was pressing upon him and hearing the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them, and had washed the nets. read more. And going into one of the boats, which was Simons, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And sitting down in the boat, he taught the multitudes. And when he had done speaking, he said to Simon, Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing; but at thy word I will let down the nets. And having done this, they inclosed great multitude of fishes; and their nets began to break. And they beckoned to their partners in the other boat, to come and help them; and they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. And Simon Peter seeing it fell down at the knees of Jesus, saying, Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For he and all that were with him were amazed at the draught of fishes, which they had taken; and so were also James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon And Jesus said to Simon, Fear not; henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything, and followed him.
And he said to him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee both to prison and to death. And he said, I tell thee, Peter, a cock will not crow this day, till thou hast thrice denied that thou knowest me.
But a certain maidservant saw him sitting at the fire, and steadily looking at him said, This man also was with him.
But a certain maidservant saw him sitting at the fire, and steadily looking at him said, This man also was with him.
And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou also art one of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. And in about one hours time, another confidently affirmed, saying, In truth this man also was with him; for he is a Galilaean.
And in about one hours time, another confidently affirmed, saying, In truth this man also was with him; for he is a Galilaean.
saying, The Lord hath risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.
who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah; (which is, when interpreted, the Christ.) He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.) read more. On the morrow he determined to go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip. And Jesus saith to him, Follow me.
From this time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Jesus therefore said to the twelve, Do ye also wish to go away? read more. Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast words of everlasting life; and we have believed and known, that thou art the Holy One of God.
Simon Peter saith to him, Lord, whither dost thou go? Jesus answered, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou wilt follow me afterward. Peter saith to him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thee. read more. Jesus answereth, Wilt thou lay down thy life for me? Truly, truly do I say to thee, A cock will not crow, till thou hast thrice denied me.
But Peter was standing outside at the door. The other disciple therefore, who was an acquaintance of the highpriest, went out and spoke to her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. Then the maidservant that kept the door saith to Peter, Art thou also one of this mans disciples? He saith, I am not.
And Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to him, Art thou also one of his disciples? He denied and said, I am not.
Jesus saith to her, Touch me not; for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren, and say to them, I ascend to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God.
Whosever sins ye remit, they are remitted to them; whosever ye retain, they are retained.
Thomas answered and said to him, My Lord and my God!
He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep.
Truly, truly do I say to thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldst; but when thou hast grown old, thou wilt stretch forth thy hands, and another will gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst not.
Truly, truly do I say to thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldst; but when thou hast grown old, thou wilt stretch forth thy hands, and another will gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst not. This he said, signifying by what manner of death he was to glorify God. And having thus spoken, he saith to him, Follow me.
the sun will be turned into darkness and the moon into blood, before the day of the Lord cometh, the great and notable day.
this man, being delivered up by the settled purpose and foreknowledge of God, ye, by the hand of godless men, crucified and slew. But God raised him up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be held by it.
And when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what must we do? But Peter said to them, Repent, and let every one of you be baptized to the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sins, and ye will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
But God thus fulfilled what he had before announced by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ should suffer.
To you first, God, having raised up his servant, sent him to bless you in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.
And there is salvation in no other; for there is not another name under heaven, that hath been given among men, by which we must be saved. And when they beheld the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and common men, they wondered; and they recognized them as having been with Jesus.
But Peter and John answered and said to them, Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken to you rather than to God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we saw and heard.
But Peter and the apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew by hanging him on a cross;
They therefore went away from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame in behalf of that name;
And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join himself to the disciples; and they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple.
And it came to pass, that as Peter went through the whole country, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda.
and he beheld heaven opened, and a sort of vessel descending, as it were a large sheet having cords at the four corners, and let down upon the earth; wherein were all the fourfooted beasts and creeping things of the earth, and birds of the air. read more. And there came a voice to him, Arise, Peter; slay, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything common and unclean. And a voice came to him again, the second time, That which God hath cleansed, call not thou common. This was done three times; and the vessel was immediately taken up into heaven. Now, while Peter was doubting within himself what the vision which he had seen meant, lo! the men who were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simons house, and stood before the gate; and they called, and asked whether Simon, surnamed Peter, lodged there. And while Peter was meditating on the vision, the Spirit said to him, Behold, men are seeking thee; but arise, and go down, and go with them, without scruple; for I have sent them. And Peter went down to the men and said, Behold, I am he whom ye are seeking; for what cause have ye come? And they said, Cornelius a centurion, a righteous man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by a holy angel to send for thee to his house, and to hear words from thee. Then he called them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow he arose and went forth with them, and certain of the brethren from Joppa accompanied him. And the morrow after, he came into Caesarea. And Cornelius was expecting them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. And as Peter came in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and did him reverence. But Peter raised him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. And while talking with him, he went in, and found many who had come together. And he said to them, Ye know that it is an unlawful thing for a Jew to keep company with one of another nation, or to come near him; but God showed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Wherefore I came without objection, when sent for. I ask therefore, for what reason did ye send for me? And Cornelius said, Four days ago, I was fasting till this hour; and at the ninth hour was praying in my house; and lo! a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said, Cornelius, thy prayer hath been heard, and thine alms have been remembered before God. Send therefore to Joppa, and call for Simon, who is surnamed Peter; he lodgeth in the house of Simon a tanner, by the seaside; and he, when he cometh, will speak to thee. I therefore sent to thee immediately; and thou hast done well in coming here. Now therefore we are all present before God, to hear all things that have been commanded thee from the Lord. And Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is not a respecter of persons, but in every nation he that feareth him and worketh righteousness is acceptable to him the word which he sent to the sons of Israel, publishing glad tidings of peace through Jesus Christ; he is Lord of all men. Ye yourselves know what was spoken of through the whole of Judaea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism which John preached, relating to Jesus of Nazareth, that God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power; who went about doing good, and healing all that were overpowered by the Devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem; whom they also slew by hanging him on a cross. Him God raised up on the third day, and caused him to be manifested, not to all the people, but to witnesses before appointed by God, to ourselves, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead; and he commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is he who hath been appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear witness, that through his name every one that believeth in him shall receive forgiveness of sins. While Peter was yet speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all that heard the word. And those of the circumcision who believed, as many as came with Peter, were astonished that on the gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit; for they heard them speaking with tongues, and magnifying God. Then answered Peter, Can any one forbid water, that these should not be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit even as we have? And he commanded that they should be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they entreated him to remain some days.
Since then God gave the like gift to them as to us, on believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I, that I could withstand God? And when they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, So then to the gentiles also God hath granted repentance unto life.
But some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Greeks, publishing the glad tidings of the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them; and a great number believed, and turned to the Lord. read more. But the talk concerning them came to the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem; and they sent forth Barnabas, to go as far as Antioch; who, when he came, and saw the grace of God, rejoiced, and exhorted all to cleave to the Lord with purpose of heart; 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 he went to Tarsus, to seek for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And it came to pass, that for a whole year they came together in the church, and taught a great multitude; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
And when they had arrived and had gathered the church together, they related what great things God had wrought with them, and that he had opened a door of faith to the gentiles.
Wherefore my judgment is, that we should not trouble those who from among the gentiles are turning to God;
And Paul, having stayed many days longer, took leave of the brethren, and sailed thence to Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila, after he had shaved his head in Cenchreae, for he had a vow. And they came to Ephesus, and he left them there; but he himself entered the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews. read more. And when they asked him to stay longer, he consented not; but having taken leave of them, saying, I will return to you, if God will, he set sail from Ephesus.
For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, that he might not be detained in Asia; for he was hastening, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost.
And the day following Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present.
And the day following Paul went in with us to James; and all the elders were present. And having embraced them, he recounted particularly what things God had wrought among the gentiles through his ministry. read more. And they on hearing it glorified God; and said to him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of believers there are among the Jews, and they are all zealots for the Law. But they have been informed concerning thee, that thou teachest all the Jews who are among the gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children, nor to walk after the customs. What then is to be done? The multitude will necessarily come together; for they will hear that thou hast come. Do this therefore that we advise thee. We have four men who have a vow on them. These take, and purify thyself with them, and pay the expenses for them, that they may shave their heads; and all will know that those things of which they have been informed concerning thee are nothing, but that thou thyself also walkest in observance of the Law.
Or dost thou despise the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God is leading thee to repentance?
What I mean is this, that each of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
For other foundation can no one lay than that which is laid, which is Christ Jesus.
Have we not a right to carry about with us a sister as a wife, as well as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
Have we not a right to carry about with us a sister as a wife, as well as the other apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas?
neither did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. Then, after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to become acquainted with Cephas, and stayed with him fifteen days; read more. but no other of the apostles did I see, save James the brother of the Lord.
and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised; only they wished us to remember the poor; which very thing I also was earnest to do. read more. But when Cephas came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face; for he was condemned. For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the other Jews also dissembled with him; so that even Barnabas was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they were not walking uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of gentiles, and not that of the Jews, how is it that thou compellest the gentiles to keep the customs of the Jews?
but when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, to redeem those under the Law, that we might be adopted as sons.
For by grace ye have been saved, through faith; and this is not of yourselves; it is the gift of God;
and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone;
and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief cornerstone;
where there is no Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bondman, freeman; but Christ is all, and in all.
Aristarchus, my fellowprisoner, saluteth you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, concerning whom ye received directions (if he come to you, receive him),
For Demas forsook me, because he loved the present world, and went to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee; for he is useful to me for the ministry.
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth unto unfeigned brotherly love, love one another from the heart, fervently;
who himself bore our sins in his own body on the cross, that we, having died to our sins, should live to righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.
Dwell likewise, O husband, with thy wife according to knowledge, as with the weaker vessel, giving her honor as being heir with thee of the grace of life, that your prayers be not hindered.
Beloved, be not surprised at the fiery trial which is taking place among you to prove you, as though a strange thing were befalling you; but, in so far as ye share in Christs sufferings, rejoice; that also at the manifestation of his glory ye may rejoice with exceeding joy. read more. If ye are reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you. For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evildoer, or as a busybody in other mens matters; but if as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this name.
By Silvanus, the faithful brother as I think, I have written to you in few words, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, my son.
The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, my son.
The church in Babylon, chosen with you, saluteth you; and Mark, my son.
and account the longsuffering of our Lord salvation; as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, wrote to you, as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things; in which things are some that are hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as also the other Scriptures, to their own destruction.
Hastings
SIMON, surnamed Peter, was 'the coryph
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And while walking by the lake of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake; for they were fishers.
And while walking by the lake of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake; for they were fishers. And he saith 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 from thence, he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.
And going on from thence, he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the boat and their father, and followed him.
And when Jesus had come into Peters house, he saw his wifes mother lying sick of a fever. And he touched her hand, and the fever left her; and she arose, and waited on him.
Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
And Peter answering him said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come to thee on the water. And he said, Come. And Peter, coming down from the boat, walked on the water, and came to Jesus. read more. But seeing the wind, 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, Thou of little faith, why didst thou doubt?
And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven. And I on my part say to thee, that thou art Peter, a rock, and on this rock will I build my church, and the gates of the underworld shall not prevail against it. read more. I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever thou shalt bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever thou shalt loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Then he charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. From that time Jesus began to show to his disciples, that he must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be put to death, and rise again on the third day. Then Peter, taking him aside, 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 thee behind me, Satan! thou art my stumblingblock; for thy thoughts are not on the things of God, but on those of men.
And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John his brother, and leadeth them up into a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone as the sun; and his garments became white as the light. read more. And lo! there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter answering said to Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, I will make here three tents; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.
And Peter answering said to Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, I will make here three tents; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. While he was yet speaking, lo! a bright cloud overshadowed them; and lo! a voice out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; hear him." read more. And the disciples hearing it, fell on their face, and were exceedingly afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And lifting up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.
But all this hath been done, that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
But Peter followed him at a distance, as far as to the court of the highpriests palace, and went in, and sat with the officers to see the end.
Now Peter was sitting outside in the court. And a maidservant came to him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus the Galilaean. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. read more. And when he had gone out into the porch, another woman saw him, and said to those who were there, This man was with Jesus the Nazarene. And again he denied with an oath; I do not know the man. And shortly after, they who were standing by came and said to Peter, Surely thou too art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee. Then he began to curse and to swear, saying, I do not know the man. And immediately a cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, who had said, Before a cock crows, thou wilt thrice deny me. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, who had said, Before a cock crows, thou wilt thrice deny me. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And as he was passing along by the lake of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon dragging a net in the lake; for they were fishers. And Jesus said to them, Come after me, and I will cause you to become fishers of men. read more. And immediately they left their nets, and followed him.
And immediately they left their nets, and followed him. And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending the nets; read more. and immediately he called them. And leaving their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, they went after him.
And immediately his fame spread abroad everywhere through the whole surrounding country of Galilee. And having come out of the synagogue, they immediately entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. read more. And Simons wifes mother lay sick of a fever; and they immediately speak to him about her. And he went to her, and took her by the hand, and raised her up; and the fever left her, and she waited on them.
And he calleth to him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over the unclean spirits;
And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, saying to them, Who do men say that I am? And they answered him, saying, John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and others, One of the prophets. read more. And he asked them, But who do ye say that I am? Peter answering saith to him, Thou art the Christ. And he strictly 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 told them this plainly. And Peter, taking him aside, began to rebuke him. But he turning about and looking at his disciples, rebuked Peter, and saith, Get thee behind me, Satan! for thy thoughts are not on the things of God, but on those of men.
And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter and James and John, and leadeth them up into a high mountain apart by themselves; and he was transfigured before them. And his garments became glistening, very white, so as no fuller on earth can whiten. read more. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus. And Peter answering saith 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 answer; for they were struck with terror.
For he knew not what to answer; for they were struck with terror. And there came a cloud overshadowing them; and a voice came out of the cloud, This is my beloved Son; hear him. read more. And suddenly looking round, they no longer saw any one but Jesus alone with themselves.
And he cometh and findeth them sleeping; and he saith to Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? Couldst not thou watch one hour?
And Peter followed him afar off, even into the court of the palace of the highpriest, and was sitting with the officers, and warming himself at the fire.
And as Peter was below in the court, there cometh one of the maidservants of the highpriest; and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, Thou too wast with the Nazarene, Jesus. read more. But he denied, saying, I do not know nor understand what thou sayest. And he went out into the forecourt; and a cock crew. And the maidservant, seeing him, began again to say to those who were standing by, This is one of them. And he denied it again. And shortly after, those who were standing by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them; for thou art a Galilaean. But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak. And immediately a cock crew a second time. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, Before a cock crows twice, thou wilt thrice deny me. And when he thought thereon, he wept.
And immediately a cock crew a second time. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, Before a cock crows twice, thou wilt thrice deny me. And when he thought thereon, he wept.
But go, tell his disciples and Peter, that he is going before you into Galilee; there ye will see him, as he said to you.
And he arose and went from the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simons wifes mother was seized with a great fever; and they besought him for her. And standing over her, he rebuked the fever, and it left her. And immediately she arose and waited on them.
And it came to pass, as the multitude was pressing upon him and hearing the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them, and had washed the nets. read more. And going into one of the boats, which was Simons, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And sitting down in the boat, he taught the multitudes. And when he had done speaking, he said to Simon, Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing; but at thy word I will let down the nets. And having done this, they inclosed great multitude of fishes; and their nets began to break. And they beckoned to their partners in the other boat, to come and help them; and they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
And they beckoned to their partners in the other boat, to come and help them; and they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. And Simon Peter seeing it fell down at the knees of Jesus, saying, Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. read more. For he and all that were with him were amazed at the draught of fishes, which they had taken; and so were also James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon And Jesus said to Simon, Fear not; henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything, and followed him.
And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything, and followed him.
And it came to pass as he was in a private place praying, that his disciples were with him; and he asked them, saying, Who do the multitudes say that I am? And they answering said, John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and others, that one of the old prophets hath risen. read more. And he said to them, But who do ye say that I am? And Peter answering said, The Christ of God. But 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 rise again on the third day.
And it came to pass about eight days after this discourse, that he took with him Peter and John and James, and went up into the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his countenance was changed, and his raiment became white and glistening. read more. And lo! two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah; who appeared in glory, and spoke of his departure which he was about to fulfill in Jerusalem. But Peter and those who were with him were weighed down with sleep. But when they awoke, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass as they were parting from him, that Peter said to Jesus, Master, 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; not knowing what he said.
And it came to pass as they were parting from him, that Peter said to Jesus, Master, 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; not knowing what he said. But as he was saying this, there came a cloud and overshadowed them; and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. read more. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, "This is my chosen Son; hear him." And when the voice had come, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it secret, and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.
Simon, Simon, lo! Satan hath asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat.
But Jesus answering said, Permit thus far; and touched his ear, and healed him.
And they seized him, and led him away, and brought him into the house of the highpriest. And Peter followed afar off.
And they seized him, and led him away, and brought him into the house of the highpriest. And Peter followed afar off. And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the court, and had sat down together, Peter sat down among them. read more. But a certain maidservant saw him sitting at the fire, and steadily looking at him said, This man also was with him. And he denied him, saying, Woman, I do not know him. And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou also art one of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. And in about one hours time, another confidently affirmed, saying, In truth this man also was with him; for he is a Galilaean. And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he was yet speaking, a cock crew. And the Lord turned and looked upon Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, that he had said to him, Before a cock crows this day, thou wilt thrice deny me. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
And he went out, and wept bitterly.
saying, The Lord hath risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.
These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
On the morrow John was again standing, and two of his disciples; and looking upon Jesus as he was walking, he saith, Behold, the Lamb of God! read more. The two disciples heard him speaking, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turning and seeing them following, saith to them, What seek ye? And they said to him, Rabbi, (that is to say, when interpreted, Teacher,) where dost thou dwell? He saith to them, Come, and ye shall see. They came therefore and saw where he dwelt; and they abode with him that day. It was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard what John said, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peters brother. He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah; (which is, when interpreted, the Christ.) He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
The day following, the multitude which stood on the other side of the lake having seen that there was no other boat there but one, and that Jesus did not go with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples went away alone, (but there came other boats from Tiberias near the place where they ate the bread, when the Lord had given thanks;) read more. when therefore the multitude saw that Jesus was not there nor his disciples, they went on board the boats, and came to Capernaum, seeking Jesus. And having found him on the other side of the lake, they said to him, Rabbi, when didst thou come hither? Jesus answered them and said, Truly, truly do I say to you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw signs, but because ye ate of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the food that perisheth, but for the food that endureth to everlasting life, which the Son of man giveth to you; for on him hath the Father set his seal, even God. Then they said to him, What are we to do, that we may work the works of God? Jesus answered and said to them, This is the work of God, that ye believe in him whom he sent. They said therefore to him, What sign doest thou, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, as it is written, "He gave them bread from heaven to eat." Jesus therefore said to them, Truly, truly do I say to you, Moses hath not given you the bread from heaven; but my Father is giving you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which is coming down from heaven, and giving life to the world. They said therefore to him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. Jesus therefore said to them, I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me will not hunger; and he that believeth in me will never thirst. But I said to you, that ye have even seen, and do not believe. All that the Father giveth me will come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out; for I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the will of him that sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up in the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that every one who looketh on the Son and believeth in him, shall have everlasting life; and I will raise him up in the last day. The Jews therefore murmured about him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven; and they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, one whose father and mother we know? How is it then that this man saith, I have come down from heaven? Jesus therefore answered and said to them, Murmur not among yourselves. No one can come to me, unless the Father, who sent me, draw him: and I will raise him up in the last day. It is written in the prophets, "And they shall all be taught of God." Every one that hath heard the Father, and hath learnt from him, cometh to me. Not that any one hath seen the Father, but he who is from God; he hath seen the Father. Truly, truly do I say to you, He that believeth hath everlasting life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and died. This is the bread which is coming down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eat of my bread, he will live for ever. Yea, and the bread which I will give for the life of the world is my flesh. The Jews therefore contended with one another, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Jesus therefore said to them, Truly, truly do I say to you, Unless ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath everlasting life; and I will raise him up in the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live by reason of the Father; so he that eateth me, he also shall live by reason of me. This is the bread which came down from heaven; not as the fathers ate, and died; he that eateth this bread will live for ever. These things he said in a synagogue, while teaching in Capernaum. Many therefore of his disciples, when they heard this, said, This teaching is hard; who can listen to it? Jesus therefore knew within himself that his disciples were murmuring about this, and said to them, Doth this offend you? What then if ye behold the Son of man ascending where he was before? It is the spirit which maketh alive; the flesh profiteth nothing. The words which I have spoken to you are spirit, and are life. But there are some of you who do not believe. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that did not believe, and who it was that would betray him. And he said, For this cause I have told you, that no one can come to me, unless it hath been given him from the Father. From this time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Jesus therefore said to the twelve, Do ye also wish to go away? Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast words of everlasting life; and we have believed and known, that thou art the Holy One of God.
So he cometh to Simon Peter; who saith to him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said to him, What I do thou knowest not now, but thou wilt know hereafter. read more. Peter saith to him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith to him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.
Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and smote the servant of the highpriest, and cut off his right ear. And the servants name was Malchus. Jesus therefore said to Peter, Put up the sword into the sheath. The cup which the Father hath given me, shall I not drink it? read more. So the band and the captain, and the officers of the Jews, took Jesus and bound him, and carried him to Annas first; for he was fatherinlaw of Caiaphas, who was highpriest that year. And it was Caiaphas who counseled the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people. And Simon Peter and the other disciple followed Jesus. That disciple was an acquaintance of the highpriest, and went with Jesus into the court of the palace of the highpriest.
And Simon Peter and the other disciple followed Jesus. That disciple was an acquaintance of the highpriest, and went with Jesus into the court of the palace of the highpriest. But Peter was standing outside at the door. The other disciple therefore, who was an acquaintance of the highpriest, went out and spoke to her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. read more. Then the maidservant that kept the door saith to Peter, Art thou also one of this mans disciples? He saith, I am not.
So when they had breakfasted, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my lambs.
So when they had breakfasted, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep.
He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep. He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my sheep.
He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my sheep. Truly, truly do I say to thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldst; but when thou hast grown old, thou wilt stretch forth thy hands, and another will gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldst not. read more. This he said, signifying by what manner of death he was to glorify God. And having thus spoken, he saith to him, Follow me.
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren, and said, (the number of the names together was about one hundred and twenty,) Brethren, it was necessary that this scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit through the mouth of David spoke before concerning Judas, who became guide to those who took Jesus. read more. For he was numbered among us, and obtained the allotment of this ministry. Now this man purchased a field with the wages of the iniquity; and falling headlong he burst asunder in the middle, and all his bowels gushed out. And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that that field is called in their own tongue, Aceldamach, that is, Field of Blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, "Let his habitation be made desolate, and let no one dwell therein;" and, "Let another take his office." Of these men, therefore, who accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us, must one be made a witness with us of his resurrection. And they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed saying, Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show which of these two thou hast chosen to take the part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell away, that he might go to his own place. And they cast lots for them; and the lot fell upon 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 that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known to you, and hearken to my words.
And while they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came upon them, being indignant that they taught the people, and proclaimed in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. read more. And they laid hands upon them, and put them in prison until the next day; for it was now evening. Many however of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men became five thousand. And it came to pass on the next day, that their rulers and elders and scribes, and Annas the highpriest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the highpriest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, did ye do 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 in respect to a good deed done to a cripple, by what means he hath been restored, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead,by him doth this man stand here before you sound. This is the stone which was set at nought by you the builders, which is become a cornerstone. And there is salvation in no other; for there is not another name under heaven, that hath been given among men, by which we must be saved. And when they beheld the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and common men, they wondered; and they recognized them as having been with Jesus. And seeing the man that had been cured standing with them, they could say nothing in reply. But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a remarkable sign hath been wrought by them is manifest to all that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it. But that it spread no further among the people, let us strictly forbid them with threats to speak any longer in this name to any one. And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all, nor 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, his wife also having knowledge of it; and brought a certain part, and laid it at the feet of the apostles. read more. But Peter said, Ananias, why did Satan fill thy heart that thou shouldst lie to the Holy Spirit, and keep back part of the price of the land? While it remained, was it not thine own? And after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? Why didst thou conceive this thing in thy heart? Thou didst not lie to men, but to God. And Ananias, hearing these words, fell down, and expired. And great fear came on all that heard of it. And the young men arose, and wrapt him up, and carried him out, and buried him. And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what had happened, came in. Peter said to her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much. And she said, Yes, for so much. And Peter said to her, Why is it that ye agreed together to try the Spirit of the Lord? Lo! the feet of those who have buried thy husband are at the door, and they will carry thee out. And she fell down immediately at his feet, and expired; and the young men, when they came in, found her dead, and carried her out, and buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon all that heard of these things.
so that in the streets they brought out the sick, and laid them on beds and couches, in order that at least the shadow of Peter, as he passed, might overshadow some of them.
But the highpriest and all that were with him, which is the sect of the Sadducees, rose up and were filled with indignation, and laid hands on the apostles, and put them in the public prison. read more. But an angel of the Lord in the night opened the prisondoors, and brought them forth and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And hearing this, they went into the temple at daybreak and taught. But the highpriest and they that were with him came and called together the council, and all the elders of the sons of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But the officers that came did not find them in the prison; and they returned and brought word, saying, The prison we found shut in all security and the keepers standing at the doors: but when we opened them, we found no one within. And when the priest, and the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these words, they were at a loss concerning them, to what this would come. But one came and brought them word, Lo! the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence, that they might not be stoned; for they feared the people. And having brought them, they set them before the council. And the highpriest questioned them, saying, We strictly commanded you not to teach in this name, and lo! ye have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and mean to bring this mans blood upon us. But Peter and the apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew by hanging him on a cross; him hath God exalted by his right hand, as a Leader and Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit which God hath given to those who obey him. But when they heard this, they were filled with rage, and were resolving to kill them. But there stood up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, in high esteem with all the people, and commanded to put the men forth a little while, and said to them [of the council], Men of Israel, take heed to yourselves as to what ye are about to do in respect to these men. For before these days arose Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain, and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and came to nought. After this man arose Judas the Galilaean, in the days of the registering, and drew people away after him; he also perished, and all, as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say to you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone; for if this design or this work be of men, it will come to nought; but if it be of God, ye will not be able to overthrow them; lest haply ye be found also fighting against God. And they were persuaded by him; and having called the apostles, they beat them, and commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and released them. They therefore went away from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame in behalf of that name; and every day, in the temple, and in houses, they ceased not to teach, and to publish the glad tidings concerning Jesus the Christ.
And Saul was consenting to his death. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and all were scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. read more. But Saul ravaged the church, entering house after house, and dragging both men and women, committed them to prison. Now those that had been scattered abroad went through the country preaching the word. And Philip went down to a city of Samaria, and preached to them the Christ. And the multitudes with one accord gave heed to the things spoken by Philip, when they heard and saw the signs which he wrought. For from many that had unclean spirits came they out crying with a loud voice; and many that were palsied, and that were lame, were cured. And there was great joy in that city. But before their arrival a certain man, named Simon, was in the city, a man practising sorcery, and amazing the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was some great person; to whom they gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the Power of God, which is called Great. And to him they gave heed, because they had for a long time been amazed by his sorceries. But when they believed Philip, publishing the glad tidings concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. And Simon himself also believed, and having been baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed when he beheld the miracles and signs which were wrought. And the apostles at Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John;
And the apostles at Jerusalem, hearing that Samaria had received the word of God, sent to them Peter and John; who, having come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit.
who, having come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For it had not yet fallen upon any of them; but they had only been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.
For it had not yet fallen upon any of them; but they had only been baptized 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. But Simon, seeing that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles hands, offered them money,
But Simon, seeing that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles hands, offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit.
saying, Give me also this power, that on whomever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit. But Peter said to him, Thy money perish with thee! because thou didst think to obtain the gift of God with money.
But Peter said to him, Thy money perish with thee! because thou didst think to obtain the gift of God with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.
Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if haply the thought of thy heart may be forgiven thee.
Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray the Lord, if haply the thought of thy heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.
For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. And Simon answering said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of the things which ye have spoken may come upon me.
And Simon answering said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of the things which ye have spoken may come upon me. They then, when they had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, were returning to Jerusalem, and publishing the glad tidings in many villages of the Samaritans.
And it came to pass, that as Peter went through the whole country, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had lain on a bed eight years, and was palsied. read more. And Peter said to him, Aeneas, Jesus the Christ healeth thee; arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt in Lydda and Sharon saw him; and they turned to the Lord. Now at Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which name being interpreted is the same as Dorcas, that is, Gazelle. This woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she fell sick, and died; and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper chamber. And as Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent to him two men with the entreaty, Do not delay to come to us. Then Peter arose, and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber; and all the widows came to him weeping, and showing the coats and cloaks which Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and seeing Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and raised her up; and calling the saints and the widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.
Now a certain man in Caesarea, named Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,
Now they who were scattered abroad by the persecution that arose on account of Stephen traveled as far as Phenicia, and Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to none but Jews.
Now about that time, Herod the king laid his hands upon certain of the church, to oppress them. And he slew James, the brother of John, with the sword. read more. And seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to apprehend Peter also; (then were the days of unleavened bread;) and he seized him and put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after the passover to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept guarded in prison; but earnest prayer was made by the church to God in his behalf. And when Herod was about to bring him forth, on that night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and keepers before the door were guarding the prison. And lo! an angel of the Lord came to him, and a light shone in the room; and he smote Peter on the side, and roused him, saying, Rise up quickly. And his chains fell from his hands. And the angel said to him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals; and he did so. And he saith to him, Throw thy garment round thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed; and he knew not that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he saw a vision. And when they had passed the first, and the second guard, they came to the iron gate that leadeth to the city, which opened to them of itself; and they went out and passed on through one street, and the angel immediately departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, Now I know certainly, that the Lord hath sent forth his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And when he understood the matter, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, surnamed Mark, where many were gathered together, and praying. And as he knocked at the door of the gate, a maidservant came to listen, named Rhoda; and recognizing Peters voice, she opened not the gate for gladness; but ran in, and told them that Peter was standing before the gate. And they said to her, Thou art mad. But she positively affirmed that it was even so. Then they said, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking; and opening the door, they saw him, and were amazed. But beckoning to them with his hand to be silent, he related how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go and tell these things to James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went to another place. And when it was day, there was no small commotion among the soldiers, as to what had become of Peter. And Herod, when he had sought for him and found him not, examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be led away [to execution]. And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and there abode.
And there came down certain men from Judaea, and taught the brethren, Unless ye are circumcised after the custom of Moses, ye cannot be saved. But when Paul and Barnabas had had no small dissension and debate with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain others of them, should go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders about this question. read more. They therefore, having been sent forward by the church, passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren. And having come to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church, and by the apostles and elders, and they related what great things God had wrought with them. But there rose up certain believers of the sect of the Pharisees, saying, It is necessary to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and the elders came together to consider this matter. And after much debate, Peter rose up and said to them, Brethren, ye know that a long time ago God made choice among you, that by my mouth the gentiles should hear the word of the glad tidings, and believe. And God, who knoweth the heart, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, as he gave it to us; and made no difference between us and them, having purified their hearts by faith. Now therefore why do ye provoke the anger of God, by putting a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same manner as they. And all the multitude became silent, and listened to Barnabas and Paul, while they related what great signs and wonders God had wrought among the gentiles by them. And after they had done speaking, James answered, saying, Brethren, hearken to me. Simeon hath related how God first visited the gentiles, to take out of 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 will rebuild the tabernacle of David which hath fallen; and I will rebuild its ruins, and will set it up; that the rest of men may seek after the Lord, and all the gentiles, who have been called by my name, saith the Lord, who doeth these things, which were known from the beginning." Wherefore my judgment is, that we should not trouble those who from among the gentiles are turning to God; but that we should write to them by letter to abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from that which hath been strangled, and from blood. For Moses from the times of old hath had in every city those who preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath. Then it was decided by the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from among themselves, and send them to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren. And they wrote by them, "The apostles, and the elders, and the brethren, to the brethren who are from the gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting. Whereas we have heard, that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, to whom we gave no command; it seemed good to us, having become of one mind, to choose men and send them to you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who will themselves tell you the same things by word of mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us, to lay upon you no further burden except these necessary things: to abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication; from which if ye keep yourselves, ye will do well. Farewell."
Then, fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus also with me. And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the gentiles; but privately to those who were 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; and that because of the false brethren stealthily brought in, who crept in to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring into bondage; to whom not even for an hour did we yield by the required subjection, that the truth of the gospel might still remain with you. But from those who were reputed to be somewhatwhatever they were, it matters not to me, (God accepteth no mans person,) for to me those in reputation communicated nothing new. But on the contrary, when they saw that I was intrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, as Peter was with that to the circumcised, (for he who wrought for Peter in behalf of the apostleship to the circumcised, wrought also for me in behalf of the gentiles,) and when they knew the grace that was given to me, James and Cephas and John, who were reputed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the gentiles, and they to the circumcised; only they wished us to remember the poor; which very thing I also was earnest to do. But when Cephas came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face; for he was condemned. For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the other Jews also dissembled with him; so that even Barnabas was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they were not walking uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of gentiles, and not that of the Jews, how is it that thou compellest the gentiles to keep the customs of the Jews? We are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the gentiles; but knowing that a man is not accepted as righteous by the works of the Law, but by faith in Christ Jesus, we also have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be accepted as righteous by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the Law; for by the works of the Law shall no flesh be accepted as righteous. But while seeking to be accepted as righteous in Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Far be it! For if I again build up what I pulled down, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the Law died to the Law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ, and no longer do I live, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness come through the Law, then did Christ die for nought.
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 while walking by the lake of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake; for they were fishers.
But Jesus called them to him, and said, Ye know that the rulers of the nations lord it over them, and their great men exercise a strict authority over them. Not so shall it be among you; but whoever desireth to become great among you, will be your minister; read more. and whoever desireth to be first among you, will be your servant; even as the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.
And as he was passing along by the lake of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon dragging a net in the lake; for they were fishers. And Jesus said to them, Come after me, and I will cause you to become fishers of men.
And going into one of the boats, which was Simons, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And sitting down in the boat, he taught the multitudes. And when he had done speaking, he said to Simon, Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a draught. read more. And Simon answering said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing; but at thy word I will let down the nets. And having done this, they inclosed great multitude of fishes; and their nets began to break. And they beckoned to their partners in the other boat, to come and help them; and they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. And Simon Peter seeing it fell down at the knees of Jesus, saying, Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. For he and all that were with him were amazed at the draught of fishes, which they had taken; and so were also James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon And Jesus said to Simon, Fear not; henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything, and followed him.
He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
This he said, signifying by what manner of death he was to glorify God. And having thus spoken, he saith 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 the names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus; read more. Simon of Cana, and Judas Iscariot, he who betrayed him.
And Jesus answering said to him, Blessed art thou, Simon, son of Jonah; for flesh and blood did not reveal it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.
And he goeth up into the mountain, and calleth to him whom he would; and they came to him. And he appointed twelve to be with him, and whom he might send forth to preach, read more. and to have authority to cast out demons. And he appointed the twelve, and Simon he surnamed Peter; and James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, that is, Sons of thunder; and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon of Cana, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. And he cometh into the house.
On the morrow John was again standing, and two of his disciples; and looking upon Jesus as he was walking, he saith, Behold, the Lamb of God! read more. The two disciples heard him speaking, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turning and seeing them following, saith to them, What seek ye? And they said to him, Rabbi, (that is to say, when interpreted, Teacher,) where dost thou dwell? He saith to them, Come, and ye shall see. They came therefore and saw where he dwelt; and they abode with him that day. It was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard what John said, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peters brother. He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah; (which is, when interpreted, the Christ.) He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.)
He saith to him again a second time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Tend my sheep.
And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join himself to the disciples; and they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple.
And it came to pass, that as Peter went through the whole country, he came down also to the saints who dwelt at 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 Peters house, he saw his wifes mother lying sick of a fever.
And Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Truly do I say to you, Whatever ye shall bind on earth will be bound in heaven; and whatever ye shall loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
And having come out of the synagogue, they immediately entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.
And they went out, and fled from the tomb; for trembling and amazement had seized them, and they said nothing to any one; for they were terrified.
And he arose and went from the synagogue into the house of Simon. And Simons wifes mother was seized with a great fever; and they besought him for her.
And it came to pass, as the multitude was pressing upon him and hearing the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them, and had washed the nets. read more. And going into one of the boats, which was Simons, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And sitting down in the boat, he taught the multitudes.
Then Peter said, Lo! we left what we had, and followed thee.
He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah; (which is, when interpreted, the Christ.) He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looking upon him said, Thou art Simon, the son of John; thou shalt be called Cephas; (which signifieth Peter, that is, Rock.) read more. On the morrow he determined to go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip. And Jesus saith to him, Follow me.
Whosever sins ye remit, they are remitted to them; whosever ye retain, they are retained.
But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said to them, Men of Judea, and all that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known to you, and hearken to my words.
And when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what must we do? But Peter said to them, Repent, and let every one of you be baptized to the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sins, and ye will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. read more. For the promise is to you and to 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 perverse generation. They therefore received his word, and were baptized; and there were added on that day about three thousand souls. And they were constantly attending on the teaching of the apostles, and the imparting [of their substance], the breaking of bread, and the prayers. And fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were wrought through the apostles.
What I mean is this, that each of you saith, 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 Cephas came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face; for he was condemned.
But when Cephas came to Antioch, I withstood him to the face; for he was condemned. For before certain persons came from James, he used to eat with the gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. read more. And the other Jews also dissembled with him; so that even Barnabas was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they were not walking uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in the presence of all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of gentiles, and not that of the Jews, how is it that thou compellest the gentiles to keep the customs of the Jews? We are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the gentiles; but knowing that a man is not accepted as righteous by the works of the Law, but by faith in Christ Jesus, we also have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be accepted as righteous by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the Law; for by the works of the Law shall no flesh be accepted as righteous. But while seeking to be accepted as righteous in Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Far be it! For if I again build up what I pulled down, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the Law died to the Law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ, and no longer do I live, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness come through the Law, then did Christ die for nought.