Peter
The Rock
Fisherman who became a disciple of Jesus and a key leader in the early church.
Peter (born Simon) was a Galilean fisherman whose transformative encounter with Jesus led him to become one of the most prominent apostles and early church leaders. Impulsive and outspoken, Peter experienced dramatic highs and lows in his discipleship journey—from walking on water and confessing Jesus as Messiah to denying Him three times. After the resurrection, Jesus restored Peter and commissioned him to "feed my sheep." Empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Peter became a bold preacher, miracle worker, and church leader who helped open the door of faith to the Gentiles. Tradition holds that he was eventually martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero, crucified upside down at his own request, not feeling worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.
Books Featured In
Timeline
10 BC
Born in Bethsaida (approximate)
30 AD
Called as disciple
33 AD
Denial and restoration
33 AD
Pentecost and early church leadership
40-41 AD
Gospel to Cornelius (first Gentile convert)
64-67 AD
Martyrdom in Rome (traditional)
Key Events
Call to Discipleship
After a miraculous catch of fish, Jesus called Peter to become a "fisher of men."
Luke 5:1-11, Matthew 4:18-20, Mark 1:16-18
Confession at Caesarea Philippi
Peter confessed Jesus as "the Christ, the Son of the living God," and was named "the Rock."
Matthew 16:13-20, Mark 8:27-30, Luke 9:18-21
Walking on Water
Peter briefly walked on water toward Jesus before sinking when he focused on the storm.
Matthew 14:22-33
Witness of Transfiguration
Peter witnessed Jesus' glory with James and John on the mountain.
Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:2-10, Luke 9:28-36
Denial of Jesus
Despite vowing loyalty, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times during His trial.
Matthew 26:69-75, Mark 14:66-72, Luke 22:54-62, John 18:15-27
Restoration by the Sea
The risen Jesus restored Peter with three affirmations of love, commissioning him to pastoral ministry.
John 21:15-19
Pentecost Sermon
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly preached, and 3,000 people were baptized.
Acts 2:14-41
Vision of Clean Animals
Peter's vision and subsequent ministry to Cornelius opened the door for Gentile conversion.
Acts 10
Lessons We Can Learn
Growth through failure and restoration
Balance of boldness and humility
Transformation by the Holy Spirit
Leadership that serves others
Courage to break cultural barriers