Simon Peter

Here you will find the main highlights of Simon Peter's life.

Simon Peter was born in Bethsaida, a village located on the Sea of Galilee. He was the son of Jonah and had a brother, Andrew, who was also a disciple of Jesus. Peter was a fisherman by trade before he was called by Jesus to follow Him.

Matthew 4:18-20 describes how Jesus called Simon and his brother Andrew as they were casting their nets out in the lake. Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They responded: “Immediately they left their nets and followed him.”

Jesus gave Simon the nickname “Peter,” which means “rock.” John 1:42 says, “Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas’ (which, when translated, is Peter).” This name symbolizes his role as the foundation of the church.

Peter is typically seen as the leader of the twelve disciples. He is often mentioned first in the gospels when listing the disciples and his fiery personality and strong faith made him a natural leader within the group.

• Peter's confession: In Matthew 16:16-18, Peter declares that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God. Jesus replies that on this “rock” His church will be built.

• Walking on water: In Matthew 14:28-31, Peter walks on water toward Jesus, but sinks when he begins to doubt.

• Denying Jesus: During Jesus' capture, Peter denies Him three times, as Jesus predicted (Luke 22:54-62).

• Peter’s reinstatement: After the resurrection (and Peter’s denial), Jesus appears to Peter and restores him to his role as leader by asking him three times, “Do you love me?” (John 21:15-17).

After Pentecost, Peter plays a key role in the early church. He preaches the first sermon on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and becomes an important leader in Jerusalem. According to tradition, Peter was eventually crucified in Rome under Emperor Nero, asking to be crucified upside down because he did not consider himself worthy to die the same way as Jesus.

Peter is considered the first pope by the Catholic Church and is often depicted with keys, symbolizing the “keys of the Kingdom of Heaven” that Jesus gave him (Matthew 16:19). His life is an example of human weakness and God's grace, as he was used to play an important role in God's plan despite his faults.