Matthew Profiles

PETER

Matthew 26:69-75

Jesus’ first words to Simon Peter were “Come ye after me” (Mark 1:17). His last words to him were “Follow thou me” (John 21:22). Every step of the way between those two challenges, Peter never failed to follow—even though he often stumbled.

When Jesus entered Peter’s life, this plain fisherman became a new person with new goals and new priorities. He did not become a perfect person, however, and he never stopped being Simon Peter. We may wonder what Jesus saw in Simon that made him greet this potential disciple with a new name: Peter—the “rock.” Impulsive Peter certainly didn’t act like a rock much of the time. But when Jesus chose his followers, he wasn’t looking for models; he was looking for real people. He chose people who could be changed by his love, and then he sent them out to communicate that his acceptance was available to anyone—even to those who often fail.

We may wonder what Jesus sees in us when he calls us to follow him. But we know Jesus accepted Peter, and, in spite of his failures, Peter went on to do great things for God. Are you willing to keep following Jesus, even when you fail?

Strengths and accomplishments	Became the recognized leader among Jesus’ disciples—one of the inner group of three Was the first great voice of the gospel during and after Pentecost Probably knew Mark and gave him information for the Gospel of Mark Wrote 1 and 2 Peter
Weaknesses and mistakes	Often spoke without thinking; was brash and impulsive During Jesus’ trial, denied three times that he even knew Jesus Later found it hard to treat Gentile Christians as equals
Lessons from his life	Enthusiasm has to be backed up by faith and understanding, or it fails God’s faithfulness can compensate for our greatest unfaithfulness It is better to be a follower who sometimes fails than one who fails to follow
Vital statistics	Occupations: Fisherman, disciple Relatives: Father: Jona. Brother: Andrew. Contemporaries: Jesus, Pilate, Herod
Key verse	“Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).

Peter’s story is told in the Gospels and the book of Acts. He is mentioned in Galatians 1:18 and 2:7-14; and he wrote the books of 1 and 2 Peter.