Those that spend any time reading and studying the Bible are all very familiar with the Apostle Peter. Of the twelve disciples, his aggressive and impulsive nature got him into trouble more than once, but on the other hand, they also made him one to be admired. He was the chief figure early in the Christian movement, when Jerusalem was the center of activity. Simon was the first to respond when Jesus asked the disciples, “But who say ye that I am?” Peter immediately answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God,” (Matthew 16:15-18). In verse 18 Jesus said, “That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church . . .” I believe Jesus was prophesying here that the church (His body), would be comprised of those believers who recognized and confessed that Jesus was the Son of God. But there was an additional meaning to the prophecy in that the Catholic church does in fact recognize Peter (the rock) as their first and founding leader (Pope). Thus, Peter was the unquestioned leader during early days in the establishment of the church. Later, Paul became the leading figure, when the focus of activity was moved to Antioch. Peter is not mentioned in the book of Acts after the council of Jerusalem in 50 AD. This change in leadership came after Peter’s visit to Antioch, where Paul confronted him about his continued ambivalence about new converts compliance with OT Jewish laws, such as circumcision. This was finally resolved when the Jerusalem council issued their decision, described in Acts 15:28-29. The date of this Epistle is uncertain, but it probably was written after 63 AD, near the start of persecution by Nero. It was written to strengthen and encourage Christians in Asia Minor during the fiery trials they faced.
