Lecture Notes: Saint Peter

Introduction

Focus on life and character of Peter, a central disciple of Jesus.
Draws insights from visits to the Holy Land, especially Capernaum and related biblical sites.
Peter as an everyman: a professional fisherman, relatable and human.
Peter's deep connection and frequent appearance in the Gospels.
Role in early church, especially post-Judas’ betrayal.

Impetuous, bold, often speaks before thinking.
Sinful yet repentant, exemplifies true discipleship (betrays Jesus but repents bitterly).
Close disciple of Jesus, part of the inner circle (Peter, James, and John).
Leader in the early church, makes important decisions (e.g., replacing Judas).

Peter as a qualifier for being an Apostle: time spent with Jesus (Acts 1:21-22).
Represented in early Christian art consistently, demonstrating his frequent presence with Jesus.
Examples from sarcophagi art c. 300 A.D.—Peter’s depictions across various gospel scenes (healing, miracles).

Luke 8: Peter as the crowd controller, shows his active role beside Jesus.
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John mention Peter 25, 25, 30, and 39 times respectively.
John’s Gospel offers insights into Peter's early encounters and significant role.

John 1:35-42: Andrew, Peter’s brother, introduces Peter to Jesus after becoming a disciple of John the Baptist.
- Andrew’s declaration: “We have found the Messiah.”
- Jesus renames Simon to Cephas (Peter, meaning ‘rock’).
Luke 5:1-11: The miraculous catch of fish, Peter acknowledges Jesus as Lord: “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” Jesus calls Peter not to be afraid and to become a fisher of men.
Peter's humility and willingness to follow Jesus despite initial reluctance.

Peter and Andrew originated from Bethsaida, moved to Capernaum likely due to religious and cultural reasons (e.g., pagan temple in Bethsaida).
Knowledge of Greek culture and language, indicating their preparedness for their future roles.
Peter’s observance of Jewish customs and laws (Acts 10:14).

Jesus calls ordinary people and equips them for extraordinary purposes (1 Corinthians 1:26-29; Acts 4:13).
Importance of evangelization: Andrew's simple act of introducing Peter to Jesus as a model.
Significance of recognizing Jesus as Lord and the transformative power of this recognition.
Encouragement to modern Christians: re-evaluating the role and necessity of the Church based on its origins and foundations laid by Peter.

Peter as a bridge between us and Jesus, a model for discipleship and understanding the Church.
Reflect on the courage, humility, and willingness Peter exhibited in following Jesus.

Closing prayer for courage, love, forgiveness, and calling by name, inspired by Peter's journey.

In the name of the Father, Son, Holy Spirit, Amen