Upon This Rock

I and 2 Peter
Jesus made an announcement in the Gospel of Matthew that virtually shook the foundations of the world. Unexpected and surprising to His followers (at this point only Jews), his response to The Chosen (his twelve disciples) when they offered what they knew, became the foundation, and focus of his entire ministry. It turned out to be a significant turning point. "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?"

To which they answered, "Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, others say Jeremiah or one of the Prophets" (Now I am picturing this exchange between Jesus and the 12 in my mind). Likely he had their full attention and was looking for the right time to begin the more public phase of his 3-year ministry.

Peter answered with these words about the Word

"You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God."

Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona for flesh and blood did not reveal did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, You are Peter and upon this rock, I will build my church and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."

In this short letter, you will receive a New Birth in chapter one, which opens the door to new horizons and a new birthright!
In chapter 2 you get a New Blueprint for living arrangements.
In chapter 3 you will receive a New Lord and Overseer.
In chapter 4 you are given New Weapons for survival.
In chapter 5 a New Authority over a New Economy.
In all, Peter's life and letter are a testimony of the grace of God in His experience and his exhortation is to stand fast in it.
In chapter 4 you are given New Weapons for survival.
In chapter 5 a New Authority over a New Economy.

In all, Peter's life and letter are a testimony of the grace of God in His experience and his exhortation is to stand fast in it.
If Peter were here today it is my belief that he would struggle with the throne and his crown in the ornately appointed--even ostentatious-- basilica that now bears his name. He might chuckle at the confidence of the pilgrims that flock to the site to see his bones, wondering to himself with thoughts of "How do you know?" and "Why would you need to?" All the while wanting to talk you as a fellow follower of the Nazarene- to what it means to the modern disciple of Jesus.

He was definitely tapped and subsequently groomed for leadership among the twelve. Like most leaders in training, he had
Both epistles are written around the theme of grace and both are reminders to stimulate wholesome thinking amidst the clamor of voices speaking to us daily about the life you can expect when you say "Yes" to Jesus. He tells us not to forget how God created the world and holds all the power (based on His promises) to determine my future.
God is not like us. His dely is not motivated by a desire to keep us waiting; he tarries so more can be saved.
He tells us about a sure hope-one that is alive and not a hapless, fatalistic "I hope s but one fueled by faith in his unfailing love and his immutable promises. If you want to be encouraged this is a book for you!