Peter, also called Simon, was a fisherman from Galilee and one of the first disciples called by Jesus. When Jesus said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men,” Peter and his brother Andrew “immediately left their nets and followed Him” (Matthew 4:19-20). His name, given by Jesus, means “rock” (John 1:42).
Peter was bold, outspoken, and passionate. He often acted as the spokesman for the twelve. When Jesus asked who the disciples believed He was, Peter declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Jesus responded, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah… and on this rock I will build My church” (Matthew 16:17-18).
Despite his zeal, Peter stumbled. He rebuked Jesus for speaking of His death (Matthew 16:22), was rebuked in turn, and later denied Jesus three times on the night of His arrest (Matthew 26:74). Yet, after the resurrection, Jesus restored him personally, asking three times, “Do you love Me?” and instructing him to “Feed My sheep” (John 21:17).
Peter became a pillar in the early church. He preached at Pentecost, where about three thousand souls were saved (Acts 2:41). He performed miracles (Acts 3:6-8), confronted sin in the church (Acts 5:1-11), and opened the door of the gospel to the Gentiles through the household of Cornelius (Acts 10).
He authored two epistles, 1 Peter and 2 Peter, encouraging believers to endure suffering, live holy lives, and remember the promises of Christ’s return.
Though he once feared man, Peter was later crucified for his faith, as foretold by Jesus in John 21:18-19. His life is a testimony of transformation, from impulsive follower to faithful shepherd.
