Peter the apostle was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, chosen by Jesus personally to be among the earliest communicators of his teachings and church. Peter’s importance in the Bible and Christian history is profound. Most Christians recognize him as Jesus’s “rock” – the impenetrable foundation of the church. But what did Peter do after Jesus’ crucifixion and ascension? What do we know about his ministry from the Bible?
The Bible says that after the Resurrection, Jesus appeared to the eleven apostles and, “he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” From then on, Peter did not look back. He was a major contributor to the spread of Christianity and was a leader in the early church.
Peter’s faith in Jesus was unwavering and it grew as Jesus’ messianic mission expanded. He fought against Satan in the wilderness and became an important figure in the events that occurred during Jesus’ passion, suffering, and death.
Shortly after Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit fell upon the Apostles and it was then that Peter began his public ministry. He preached at the house of Cornelius and converted the Gentiles, an event that became a major turning point in the spread of Christianity beyond the Jews. Peter wrote two epistles to his followers, which formed part of the New Testament.
The Bible doesn’t tell us much about how and where Peter died. Historians believe he was martyred in Rome in about 64 AD. He may have gone to Rome sometime in the mid-fifties and he may have been martyred by Nero. It is said that his grave still exists to this day in the Vatican.
The Bible mentions two other events associated with Peter. First, it is believed that he was the first Pope, although this is disputed by some scholars. Second, it is said that he walked on the water with Jesus. This suggests that, like Jesus, Peter had the power to perform miracles and to understand the will of God.
His Writings
The most important information we have about Peter’s life after the Resurrection stems from his writings, which form part of the New Testament. His two epistles (1 and 2 Peter) contain insight on topics as diverse as living a holy life in the midst of persecution, marriage, keeping good relationships with family and friends, and how to stay righteous in a chaotic world.
His articles exhort followers to live according to their convictions, even in the face of distress and fear from those who oppose the gospel of Jesus. They also contain Christ-like characteristics – such as humility and kindness – that Peter himself championed as a follower of Jesus.
The writings of St. Peter also remind readers that living in obedience to God does not make us immune from trouble, but that our faith in Him will get us through it (1 Peter 5:7). This encouraged a sense of hope among the early Christians and gave them assurance that God was still with them even during tough times.
Later Life and Legacy
Despite little being known about the details of Peter’s life after Jesus’ Resurrection and ascension, one thing is certain – he was one of Jesus’ most faithful and devoted disciples. He was an enthusiastic evangelist who risked his own life to spread the gospel of Jesus. After his death, his impact was felt throughout the Christian world. He is largely known as the first pope in Christianity with his successors continuing his ministry to this day.
Peter’s legacy is one of dedication, courage, and fortitude in the face of adversity. His tireless devotion to Jesus and his willingness to surrender his life for the cause of Christ is an example for all believers. His writings still bring hope and inspiration to the faithful in their daily struggles.
Miracles
A number of miracles are attributed to Peter in the Bible. In one incident, Peter healed a bedridden man by the power of Jesus (Acts 3). In another, he cast out demons from a man, although Jesus later found it necessary to rebuke him for trying to stop Christ from performing a miracle (Matthew 16). On two occasions, Jesus even gave Peter the power to walk on water (Matthew 14).
One miracle that stands out among all the rest is the conversation that Jesus had with Peter before his crucifixion. Jesus entreated him three times to affirm his love for the Lord, and despite his lack of faith, Peter still obeyed. Jesus then declared that on this declaration of obedience, Peter would be the “rock” on which the Church would eventually be built (Matthew 16:18-19).
This act of obedience and courage of Peter is still remembered today. His faith in Jesus was strong and unwavering, even in the face of great trials and obstacles. He became a leader of the early Church and, with his writings, inspired believers everywhere to strive for a closer relationship with God.
Final Years
After the death of Jesus and his ascension, Peter continued sharing the gospel out of Galilee. Eventually, he was called to Rome and it is there that tradition has it he became the first Bishop of Rome, or Pope. He was arrested by the Romans and spent time in prison. As seen from his writings, it is clear he was in a distressing situation, yet despite his suffering, his faith in Jesus remained unchanged.
The Bible does not give us a clear picture of when and where Peter died. Nevertheless, his martyrdom was of paramount importance to the early Church, demonstrating the strength and commitment of the believers, who believed in the gospel even when facing persecution.
Finally, it is believed that Peter was crucified in Rome by Nero around 64 AD. It is said that, to this day, his grave can be found in the Vatican City.
Impact
The impact of Peter in the Bible and Christian history is undeniable. He was a loyal follower of Jesus and a major contributor to the spread of Christianity, both in his life and in his writings. His courage and dedication remain an inspiration to believers today, especially in times of difficulty.
Peter was a humble man, candid and sincere in his admiration for Jesus. His unwavering faith and obedience were remarkable and served as an example for all believers. This, coupled with his accomplishments in the early Church and his writings, has made him one of the most important figures in Christian history.
Beliefs
Peter’s faith in Jesus was unwavering and was based upon his belief that Jesus was the embodiment of the word of God. His two epistles were imbued with Jesus’ kingdom of grace and mercy, and with his teachings on how to live a life of holiness in spite of trials and tribulations.
Peter’s words continue to shape our understanding of what it means to be a believer today. His writings also remind us of Jesus’ love and mercy, and of our responsibility to love and serve others as Jesus did.
In his words, we find the faith of a hero who, though human and vulnerable, faced what life threw at him and still believed that Jesus was worth it. Peter’s testimony of faith will never be forgotten and his example of courage continue to be a source of inspiration to believers around the world.
Miracles and Signs
The Bible tells us of several miracles and signs attributed to Peter. Through the power of Jesus, he healed a cripple and freed a man from a demonic possession. He also had the power to walk on the water with Jesus and was given the powers to cast out demons, forgive sins and even raise the dead to life.
These miracles demonstrate Peter’s faith in Jesus and his willingness to serve Him wholeheartedly. They also demonstrate the power of Jesus, which Peter experienced firsthand. The effects of Peter’s miracles and signs are still seen in the world today as they continue to remind us of God’s power and his unconditional love for us.
Peter’s example of courage and faith also serves as a reminder that following Christ is not an easy task, but it is a courageous journey that requires faith, endurance and trust in the power of God. In this way, he has left an enduring legacy of faith and obedience.
Conclusion
Peter was one of the first to follow Jesus and remained with Him until the end. His impact continues to be felt throughout the world today and he is widely recognized as one of the most important figures in the history of Christianity. His faith and devotion to Jesus will be remembered forever, inspiring believers everywhere to strive to follow Christ.
