The name Simon was common for Jewish men in in the first century for two reasons. Simon “Bar-Jona” (as translated in the KJV) was actually the son of a man named “John” (John 1:42 Matthew 16:17). God wants to make sure you don’t miss the importance of this key leader.

Most importantly for the purpose of this article, Simon Peter is always mentioned first. They are grouped similarly in ways that reveal family relationships and later outcomes (for example, Judas Iscariot is always mentioned last, due to his betrayal.) (John’s Gospel reveals six followers in 1:35-49 as they meet Jesus, then introduces Judas Iscariot, Thomas the “Twin,” and Judas “not Iscariot” as they speak in key episodes.) Reviewing these lists reveals that there is sometimes a slight variety in the names and adjustments in the order. In the first five books of the New Testament, the authors list Jesus’ twelve followers in four clear lists: Matthew 10:2-4 Mark 3:16-19 Luke 6:13-16 and Acts 1:13. “Most biblical Christians deeply identify with Peter’s humanity and believe that they can learn from his strengths and weaknesses.” Keep reading for more answers to the question, “Who Was Peter in the Bible?” In light of the ways Peter has been portrayed in sermons, movies, and now as one of the lead characters in The Chosen television series, it is crucial to understand what the Bible says about this man who was a fisherman, disciple, apostle, and pillar during the approximately 70 years of his life on earth (5 BC–AD 65).

Whether right or wrong, they see themselves in those stories and hope that they would have done at least as well, if not better, at following Jesus and relating to others. Most biblical Christians deeply identify with Peter’s humanity and believe that they can learn from his strengths and weaknesses.

In other traditions, Peter is minimized as a theological lightweight who failed in leadership more than he succeeded and should be avoided as a model.

In one church tradition, Peter was the church father of whom all the top leaders of the Church throughout history are successors.

Peter” leads the pearly gate police, letting the dead know if they are in or out.

If you didn’t attend church at all, you probably laugh at the jokes suggesting “St.

Who was Peter in the Bible? The way you understand the Apostle Peter may have been shaped by the church you attended.

Bible study on simon the sorcerer notes