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Matthew 16:17
Verse
Context
Peter’s Confession of Christ
16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in heaven.18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.
Sermons
Jackie Pullinger
A.W. Tozer
Art Katz
Bill McLeodSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou--Though it is not to be doubted that Peter, in this noble testimony to Christ, only expressed the conviction of all the Twelve, yet since he alone seems to have had clear enough apprehensions to put that conviction in proper and suitable words, and courage enough to speak them out, and readiness enough to do this at the right time--so he only, of all the Twelve, seems to have met the present want, and communicated to the saddened soul of the Redeemer at the critical moment that balm which was needed to cheer and refresh it. Nor is Jesus above giving indication of the deep satisfaction which this speech yielded Him, and hastening to respond to it by a signal acknowledgment of Peter in return. Simon-Barjona--or, "son of Jona" (Joh 1:42), or "Jonas" (Joh 21:15). This name, denoting his humble fleshly extraction, seems to have been purposely here mentioned, to contrast the more vividly with the spiritual elevation to which divine illumination had raised him. for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee--"This is not the fruit of human teaching." but my Father which is in heaven--In speaking of God, Jesus, it is to be observed, never calls Him, "our Father" (see on Joh 20:17), but either "your Father"--when He would encourage His timid believing ones with the assurance that He was theirs, and teach themselves to call Him so--or, as here, "My Father," to signify some peculiar action or aspect of Him as "the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I say also unto thee,.... Either besides what he had already said concerning his happiness; or, as the father had revealed something great and valuable, so likewise would he; or inasmuch as he had freely said and declared who, and what he was, in like manner he also would say what Peter was, thou art Peter: intimating, that he was rightly called Peter, or Cephas, by him, when he first became a follower of him, Mat 4:18, which words signify the same thing, a rock, or stone; because of his firmness and solidity, and because he was laid upon the sure foundation, and built on the rock Christ, and was a very fit stone to be laid in the spiritual building. The aptness of this name to him is easy to be seen in his full assurance of faith, as to the person of Christ, and his free, open, and undaunted confession of him. And upon this rock will I build my church: by the church, is meant, not an edifice of wood, stones, &c. but an assembly, and congregation of men; and that not of any sort; not a disorderly, tumultuous assembly, in which sense this word is sometimes taken; nor does it design the faithful of a family, which is sometimes the import of it; nor a particular congregated church, but the elect of God, the general assembly and church of the first born, whose names are written in heaven; and especially such of them as were to be gathered in, and built on Christ, from among the Jews and Gentiles. The materials of this building are such, as are by nature no better, or more fit for it, than others: these stones originally lie in the same quarry with others; they are singled out, and separated from the rest, according to the sovereign will of God, by powerful and efficacious grace; and are broken and hewn by the Spirit of God, generally speaking, under the ministry of the word, and are, by him, made living stones; and being holy and spiritual persons, are built up a spiritual house: and these are the only persons which make up the true and invisible church of Christ in the issue, and are only fit to be members of the visible church; and all such ought to be in a Gospel church state, and partake of the privileges of it: these materials are of different sorts, and have a different place, and have a different usefulness in this building; some are only as common stones, and timber; others are as pillars, beams, and rafters; and all are useful and serviceable; and being put, and knit together, grow up as an holy temple to the Lord: and are called, by Christ, "my" church, because given him by the Father; and he has purchased them with his own blood; are built by him, and on him; inhabited by him, and of whom he is the head, king, and governor; though not to the exclusion of the Father, whose house they also are; nor of the Spirit, who dwells in them, as in his temple. This church Christ promises to "build". Though his ministers are builders, they are but under builders; they are qualified, employed, directed, encouraged, and succeeded by him; he is the wise, able, and chief master builder. This act of building seems to have a special regard to the conversion of God's elect, both among Jews and Gentiles, particularly the latter; and to the daily conversions of them in all ages; and to the building up of saints in faith and holiness; each of which will more manifestly appear in the latter day; and are both generally effected through the word, and ordinances, as means, the Spirit of Christ blessing them. By the rock on which Christ builds his church, is meant, not the person of Peter; for Christ does not say, upon thee Peter, but upon this rock, referring to something distinct from him: for though his name signifies a rock, or stone, and there may be some allusion to it; and he is so called because of his trust and confidence in the Lord, on whom he was built; but not because he was the foundation on which any others, and especially the whole church, were built: it is true, he may be called the foundation, as the rest of the twelve apostles of the Lamb are, Eph 2:20 without any distinction from them, and preference to them; they and he agreeing in laying doctrinally and ministerially Christ Jesus as the foundation of faith and hope, but not in such sense as he is; neither he, nor they, are the foundation on which the church is built, which is Christ, and him only. Moreover, what is said to Peter in these, and the following words, is not said to him personally and separately from the rest of the apostles, but is designed for them, as well as him, as appears by comparing them with Mat 18:18. As he spoke in the name of them all, to Christ; so Christ spake to him, including them all. Peter had no preeminence over the rest of the apostles, which he neither assumed, nor was it granted; nor would it ever have been connived at by Christ, who often showed his resentment at such a spirit and conduct, whenever there was any appearance of it in any of them; see Mat 18:1 and though Peter, with James, and John, had some particular favours bestowed on him by Christ; as to be at the raising of Jairus's daughter, and at the transfiguration of Christ on the mount, and with him in the garden; and he appeared to him alone after his resurrection, and before he was seen by the rest of the disciples; yet in some things he was inferior to them, being left to deny his Lord and master, they did not; and upon another account is called Satan by Christ, which they never were; not to mention other infirmities of his, which show he is not the rock: and, after all, what is this to the pope of Rome, who is no successor of Peter's? Peter, as an apostle, had no successor in his office; nor was he bishop of Rome; nor has the pope of Rome either his office, or his doctrine: but here, by the rock, is meant, either the confession of faith made by Peter; not the act, nor form, but the matter of it, it containing the prime articles of Christianity, and which are as immoveable as a rock; or rather Christ himself, who points, as it were, with his finger to himself, and whom Peter had made such a glorious confession of; and who was prefigured by the rock the Israelites drank water out of in the wilderness; and is comparable to any rock for height, shelter, strength, firmness, and duration; and is the one and only foundation of his church and people, and on whom their security, salvation, and happiness entirely depend. Christ is a rock that is higher than they, where they find safety in times of distress, and the shadow of which is refreshing to them; and therefore betake themselves to him for shelter, and where they are secure from the wrath of God, and rage of men: he is the rock of ages, in whom is everlasting strength; and is the sure, firm, and everlasting foundation on which the church, and all true believers, are laid: he is the foundation of their faith, and hope, and everlasting happiness, and will ever continue; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. The Jews speak of the gates of hell: sometimes of the gate of hell, in the singular number (p); and sometimes of the gates of hell, in the plural number. They say (q), that "Mnhygl vy Myxtp hvlv, "hell has three gates", one in the wilderness, one in the sea, and one in Jerusalem.'' They talk (r) of "an angel that is appointed , "over the gates of hell", whose name is Samriel; who has three keys in his hands, and opens three doors.'' And elsewhere (s) they say, that "he that is appointed over hell his name is Dumah, and many myriads of destroying angels are with him, and he stands , "at the gate of hell"; and all those that keep the holy covenant in this world, he has no power to bring them in.'' Our Lord may allude to these notions of the Jews, and his sense be, that all the infernal principalities and powers, with all their united cunning and strength, will never be able to extirpate his Gospel, to destroy his interest, to demolish his church in general, or ruin anyone particular soul that is built upon him. Again, the gates of "Hades", or hell, sometimes seem to design no other than the gates of death, and the grave, and persons going into the state of death; see Job 38:17 where the Septuagint use the same phrase as here; and then the sense is, that neither death, nor the grave, shall finally, and totally prevail over the people of God, and members of Christ; but they shall be raised out of such a state, and live gloriously with him for ever. By it here is not meant Peter himself; though it is true of him, that Satan, and his posse of devils that beset him, did not prevail against him, so as to destroy his grace, hurt his estate, and hinder his salvation: nor could death, in all its frightful appearances, deter him from holding, and preaching, and maintaining the doctrine of Christ; and though death, and the grave, have now power over him, yet they shall not always detain him: but rather, it designs the doctrine Peter made a confession of; which, though it may be opposed by hell and earth, by Satan, and his emissaries, by the open force of persecutors, and the secret fraud of heretics, it may be brought into contempt by the scandalous lives of professors; and though the true professors of it may die off, yet truth itself always lives, and defies the power of death, and the grave: or else the church in general is meant, and every true believer. These words do not ascertain the continuance of anyone particular congregated church, but secures the church universal, which will continue as long as the sun and moon endure, and the perseverance of everyone of God's elect; and assure that death, and the grave, shall not always have the dominion over the saints, but that they shall be rescued from them. Once more, this "it" may refer to Christ the rock, who, though he was brought to the dust of death, by the means of Satan, and the powers of darkness, yet to the ruin of him that had the power of death; and though death, and the grave, had power over him for a while, yet could not hold him; he rose victorious over them, and ever lives, having the keys of hell and death, to open the gates thereof, and let his people out when he thinks fit. (p) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 39. 1. Succa, fol. 32. 2. Bava Bathra, fol. 84. 1. (q) T. Bab. Erubin, fol. 19. 1. Menasseh ben Israel, Nishmat Chayim, fol, 33. 1, 2. (r) Zohar in Gen. fol. 47. 4. (s) Ib. fol. 7. 1.
Matthew 16:17
Peter’s Confession of Christ
16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in heaven.18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Be Filled With the Holy Spirit - Part 1
By Jackie Pullinger28K44:19Filled With The SpiritPSA 42:7MAT 16:17LUK 24:30ROM 15:17In this sermon, the speaker shares his experiences of preaching the gospel in a challenging environment. He talks about how he spent time with gangsters and criminals, sharing the message of Jesus with them. Despite facing difficult circumstances, he was encouraged when one of the gangsters acknowledged the truth of what he was preaching. The speaker also shares stories of visiting prisons and seeing the power of the Holy Spirit transform lives. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel and the impact it can have on people's lives.
(The Law of the Holy Spirit) Jesus Stayed Away Sin
By Zac Poonen8.3K52:06Law Of The Holy Spirit2SA 24:24PSA 51:3MAT 7:21MAT 12:24MAT 16:17ACT 2:4HEB 5:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of moving beyond the basic teachings of Christianity and pursuing a deeper level of spiritual maturity. He uses the analogy of learning to swim to illustrate this point, explaining that just as someone who has learned to swim can teach others, mature Christians should be able to teach and guide others in their faith. The speaker also highlights the difference between "milk" and "solid food" in the Christian message, with milk representing the basic message of forgiveness of sins and solid food representing the word of righteousness and holiness. He urges listeners to discern between good and evil, not just in a worldly sense, but also in terms of living a life that reflects the way Jesus lived on earth.
Marks of the Elect
By A.W. Tozer4.2K39:16Elect Of GodMAT 3:11MAT 6:33MAT 16:17JHN 6:37JHN 10:26JHN 14:62CO 7:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of moral sensitivity and how it relates to the reception of the gospel. He emphasizes that not everyone is receptive to the message of God, and that there are many who do not respond to it morally. The preacher uses the analogy of rain falling on a fruitful field to illustrate how the gospel can either make a person fruitful or have no effect at all. He then goes on to explain that those who are morally sensitive and responsive to the voice of God are considered blessed, as they have a deeper understanding of the Father and the Son. The preacher concludes by stating that there are five marks that identify those who are receptive to God, and encourages the audience to reflect on these marks to see if they apply to them.
From Simon to Peter #26 - the Holy Spirit and Peter's Mind - Part 1
By J. Glyn Owen2.4K42:10Simon to PeterJOL 2:28MAT 16:17LUK 24:27ACT 2:4ACT 2:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses the audience's understanding of the scriptures and their familiarity with the word of God. He emphasizes that simply attending meetings or relying on feelings is not enough, as feelings can be misleading. The speaker highlights the importance of using our minds to read, understand, and obey the Bible, as it is a gift from God. He also mentions that the Gospel of Jesus Christ appeals to the mind, conscience, will, heart, and the whole being. The speaker references the story of Simon, son of Jonah, and how Jesus was able to transform him into Peter, illustrating the power of God to change and shape individuals.
(The Truth Will Set You Free) Freedom From the Curse
By Zac Poonen2.0K58:01PSA 119:11PRO 18:21MAT 5:44MAT 7:12MAT 16:17GAL 3:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and fairness, as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. He warns against speaking evil about others and encourages forgiveness and generosity. The speaker also addresses the issue of exploitation and mistreatment of workers, emphasizing the need to pay them fairly. He highlights the significance of being serious students of God's Word and serving one's generation in the will of God. The sermon concludes with a reminder to release others and extend pardon in order to experience release from the cages of bitterness and unforgiveness.
Holl-05 Walking in the Spirit 2
By Art Katz2.0K1:18:53Walking In The SpiritMAT 6:33MAT 16:17MAT 16:19MAT 16:23JHN 3:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discerning between good intentions and God's will. He warns that in the end times, the greatest threat will not come from evil, but from that which appears good. The preacher urges the audience to reject worldly spirits and desires, such as convenience and pragmatism, and instead seek God's perfect will. He also highlights the need for spiritual rebirth and surrendering to the Holy Spirit's guidance. The sermon concludes with a prayer for spiritual refreshment and a burning desire to overcome resistance to God's spirit and bring revival.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
The Claims of Christ Are Paramount
By John Murray1.3K36:55ChristMAT 8:18MAT 8:22MAT 10:7MAT 16:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on two sayings of Jesus that are closely related to each other. The first saying is about the birds of the air having nests, but the Son of Man not having a place to lay his head. The second saying is about letting the dead carry their own dead, but going and preaching the Kingdom of God. The speaker emphasizes the urgency and importance of discipleship and following Jesus, even if it means sacrificing worldly comforts and attachments. The sermon highlights the power and love that Jesus demonstrated through his ministry and urges listeners to prioritize their commitment to Jesus over worldly concerns.
Seeing Jesus and the Father
By Zac Poonen1.2K58:32JOB 23:10MAT 11:27MAT 16:17JHN 16:13ROM 8:28
This sermon emphasizes the importance of having a revelation of Jesus Christ and the Father in building a New Covenant Church. It highlights the need to see Jesus as a triumphant, beautiful, and conquering Savior, and to understand the Father's deep love and care for each individual. The focus is on seeking a personal encounter with Jesus and the Father through the Holy Spirit, rather than just following doctrines or rituals.
(Hebrews) ch.4:11-5:6
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:17:04MAT 5:4MAT 16:171CO 2:142TI 3:16HEB 4:11HEB 12:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and not being controlled by our own emotions. The Word of God is described as a living and powerful tool that can discern the thoughts and intentions of our hearts. The preacher warns against falling into unbelief, using the example of the Israelites who failed to enter the promised land. To avoid this, believers are encouraged to be diligent and not wait for some future moment, but to seize the opportunity for salvation now. The sermon also highlights the significance of our motives in serving God, as even good actions can be tainted if our intentions are selfish or corrupt. The preacher explains the concept of the trinity of man, consisting of body, soul, and spirit, with the spirit being the part that connects us to God.
We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
By Zac Poonen1.1K47:23PSA 106:12MAT 16:17JHN 20:29ROM 10:9ROM 10:172CO 5:7EPH 1:18
This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking by faith and not by sight, highlighting the need to trust in God's Word and believe without always seeing physical evidence. It discusses the significance of having childlike faith, humility, and honesty in approaching God, as well as the power of God's love, the triumph of Christ's resurrection, and the need to be saved from sin. The message encourages resting in God's strength and promises, especially in the face of increasing evil in the world.
What if I Fail
By Peter Maiden1.1K41:27FailureGEN 11:31GEN 12:1MAT 16:13MAT 16:171CO 10:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Abraham and how his faith was tested. The preacher highlights how Abraham's faith faltered when faced with pressure and uncertainty. Abraham made a questionable decision to protect himself and his wife by claiming she was his sister. The preacher emphasizes the importance of learning from Abraham's mistakes and being cautious not to let our own faith fail in times of difficulty. The sermon concludes with a reminder that every forward move in faith will be tested, and encourages listeners to trust in God's promises and remain steadfast in their faith.
Holl-05 Absolute Overgave 2 of 2 (Absolute Surrender 2 of 2)
By Art Katz9201:18:15HollandPRO 1:7MAT 16:17MAT 16:22JHN 3:2JHN 11:35In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the spiritual significance of Jesus' words and actions. He shares a personal experience of reading a secular article that highlighted the interconnectedness of global events and how they impact everything. The speaker then refers to the story of Nicodemus meeting Jesus at night, highlighting Jesus' unexpected response about the need for spiritual rebirth to see the kingdom of God. The sermon concludes with a caution against initiating our own activities without seeking God's intricate and intertwined purpose for our lives.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 43
By Zac Poonen61625:41PRO 3:5ISA 55:8MAT 11:25MAT 16:17JHN 1:18JHN 14:9ROM 8:162PE 1:4
This sermon emphasizes the importance of humility, simplicity, and trust in understanding spiritual truths and receiving revelation from God. It contrasts the pride of clever and intelligent individuals with the humility of babes, highlighting the need for a childlike faith and openness to God's truth. The message stresses the significance of revelation in salvation, partaking of God's nature, and building a unified church as the body of Christ.
Taking Up the Cross Daily
By Zac Poonen5271:03:54PRO 15:1ISA 1:18MAT 16:17JHN 6:38JHN 7:37ROM 8:132CO 4:10PHP 2:8
This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between the Old Covenant and the Old Testament, highlighting the need to learn from the mistakes of Israel and to seek revelation from the Holy Spirit in the New Covenant. It stresses the significance of yielding to God's will daily, taking up the cross, and allowing the life of Jesus to manifest through dying to self. The speaker encourages believers to follow Jesus' example of humility and obedience, leading to a transformed life empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
The Example of Our Lord
By Andrew Murray0PrayerSpiritual LifeISA 40:31MAT 16:17MRK 1:35LUK 6:12LUK 9:18LUK 9:28LUK 11:1JHN 14:16JHN 17:1PHP 4:6Andrew Murray emphasizes the vital connection between prayer and the Spirit-filled life, illustrating how Jesus exemplified this relationship throughout His ministry. He highlights key moments in Christ's life, such as His baptism, the calling of the apostles, and the Transfiguration, where prayer was essential for receiving strength and guidance from God. Murray points out that Jesus' prayer life was foundational for His work and that believers must also engage in continuous prayer to fulfill God's purposes. He urges Christians to recognize the power of prayer in aligning their wills with God's and in accomplishing His work on earth. Ultimately, Murray calls for a commitment to a life of daily prayer, following the example set by Jesus.
The Greatness of the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Purpose of the ChurchDivine RevelationMAT 7:22MAT 11:27MAT 13:46MAT 16:17MAT 18:20EPH 1:4EPH 1:12EPH 2:7EPH 3:10EPH 3:21T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound purpose of the Church, urging Christians to recognize their high calling beyond mere salvation. He highlights that the Church, as the Body of Christ, is meant to embody His glory and greatness, serving as a vessel through which God's revelation is made known. Sparks laments the loss of vision among believers, who often remain bound by tradition and fail to grasp the Church's eternal significance and stability rooted in Christ. He calls for a divine revelation to understand the true nature of the Church, which is not merely a human institution but a living expression of Christ's presence. Ultimately, the Church is called to fulfill a great vocation, serving God throughout the ages in close relationship with His Throne.
The Battleground of the Soul (Matthew 16:13-25)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareThe CrossMAT 16:17MAT 16:23LUK 22:31T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the spiritual battleground of the soul, illustrated through Simon Peter's experiences in Matthew 16:13-25 and Luke 22:31-34. He highlights the stark contrasts in Peter's life, where he is blessed by divine revelation one moment and rebuked as a stumbling block the next. The sermon discusses how occupying worldly ground and relying on self-confidence opens the door for Satan's influence, while true spiritual strength comes from denying oneself and embracing the Cross. Sparks encourages believers to be persistent in their determination to follow God's will, recognizing the ongoing battle between heaven and hell within their souls, but also reassures them of Christ's intercession on their behalf.
The Claim of Christ
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 3:15MAT 16:17JHN 4:26JHN 5:18JHN 10:30JHN 10:33JHN 14:9JHN 14:11JHN 14:26JHN 19:7W.H. Griffith Thomas delves into the multifaceted claims of Jesus Christ, highlighting His self-proclaimed roles as the Messiah of the Jews, the Redeemer of Mankind, the Master of Mankind, the Judge of Mankind, and even claiming the prerogatives of God Himself. These claims, supported by His distinctive titles like 'Son of Man' and 'Son of God,' challenge believers to ponder the unique consciousness of Christ and the weight of His divine identity. Despite His humility, Jesus asserted unparalleled authority and relationship with God, leaving humanity with the profound dilemma of acknowledging Him as either God or not a good man.
Homily 1 on Galatians
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 16:17ACT 9:3ACT 21:17ROM 12:16GAL 1:1GAL 1:18John Chrysostom preaches about Paul's humble and obedient nature in his journey and interactions with the Apostles, highlighting his respect for Peter and James. Paul's zeal for preaching the Gospel among the Gentiles is emphasized, along with his avoidance of building on another's foundation. His humility is evident in his acknowledgment of his past persecution of the Church and the transformation brought about by God's grace.
John 1:41-42
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 133:1MAT 12:24MAT 16:17MRK 3:17LUK 9:58JHN 1:42JHN 4:18JHN 15:11CO 3:23HEB 10:25John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of companionship and unity among believers, highlighting the benefits of dwelling together in love and mutual support as opposed to isolation. He delves into the significance of Andrew's immediate sharing of the good news about Jesus with his brother Simon, showcasing the eagerness and zeal in spreading the message of Christ. Chrysostom also discusses the gradual revelation of Jesus' divinity through prophecies and the power of naming individuals in the Bible, such as Simon being called Cephas. Furthermore, he reflects on the honor and responsibility of being called Christians, urging believers to live up to the dignity of the title by imitating Christ in their actions and attitudes towards wealth and possessions.
Homily 17
By Clement of Rome0NUM 12:6MAT 16:17JHN 14:261CO 3:111JN 4:1Clement of Rome preaches about the debate between Peter and Simon regarding the nature of God, revelation, and the reliability of visions and dreams. Peter emphasizes the importance of true revelation coming from within the soul, granted by God, rather than through external apparitions or dreams. He challenges Simon's claims of receiving divine knowledge through visions, highlighting the distinction between true revelation and wrath-induced messages. Despite Simon's opposition, Peter stands firm in his faith, defending the teachings he received directly from Jesus and urging Simon to become a disciple of the truth.
Divine Revelation
By John Follette0MAT 11:27MAT 16:17JHN 1:14JHN 14:6JHN 16:131CO 2:102CO 3:6COL 2:2HEB 4:12John Follette emphasizes the importance of approaching the Bible with the guidance of the Holy Spirit for true revelation. He highlights that all Truth is revealed by the Spirit of God, not through human understanding but by the Holy Spirit unveiling the things of God. Follette stresses the necessity for teachers to have both the Word of God and the Holy Spirit working together to bring a deeper revelation of Jesus Christ. He explains that Jesus embodies all Truth, and as we draw closer to Him, we experience a greater love for Him and uncover hidden treasures through the Spirit's revelations.
The Trial by Fire of Every Man's Work
By J.C. Philpot0ISA 28:16MAT 16:171CO 3:121CO 6:191PE 1:7J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of building our spiritual lives on the foundation of Christ, emphasizing the need for a superstructure of faith, hope, and love that is in harmony with the foundation. He warns against the dangers of legalism, self-righteousness, and false religion, likening them to wood, hay, and stubble that will be consumed by the fire of God's testing. Philpot urges believers to ensure their spiritual building materials are gold, silver, and precious stones, representing valuable and enduring truths, graces, and manifestations of God's love.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou--Though it is not to be doubted that Peter, in this noble testimony to Christ, only expressed the conviction of all the Twelve, yet since he alone seems to have had clear enough apprehensions to put that conviction in proper and suitable words, and courage enough to speak them out, and readiness enough to do this at the right time--so he only, of all the Twelve, seems to have met the present want, and communicated to the saddened soul of the Redeemer at the critical moment that balm which was needed to cheer and refresh it. Nor is Jesus above giving indication of the deep satisfaction which this speech yielded Him, and hastening to respond to it by a signal acknowledgment of Peter in return. Simon-Barjona--or, "son of Jona" (Joh 1:42), or "Jonas" (Joh 21:15). This name, denoting his humble fleshly extraction, seems to have been purposely here mentioned, to contrast the more vividly with the spiritual elevation to which divine illumination had raised him. for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee--"This is not the fruit of human teaching." but my Father which is in heaven--In speaking of God, Jesus, it is to be observed, never calls Him, "our Father" (see on Joh 20:17), but either "your Father"--when He would encourage His timid believing ones with the assurance that He was theirs, and teach themselves to call Him so--or, as here, "My Father," to signify some peculiar action or aspect of Him as "the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I say also unto thee,.... Either besides what he had already said concerning his happiness; or, as the father had revealed something great and valuable, so likewise would he; or inasmuch as he had freely said and declared who, and what he was, in like manner he also would say what Peter was, thou art Peter: intimating, that he was rightly called Peter, or Cephas, by him, when he first became a follower of him, Mat 4:18, which words signify the same thing, a rock, or stone; because of his firmness and solidity, and because he was laid upon the sure foundation, and built on the rock Christ, and was a very fit stone to be laid in the spiritual building. The aptness of this name to him is easy to be seen in his full assurance of faith, as to the person of Christ, and his free, open, and undaunted confession of him. And upon this rock will I build my church: by the church, is meant, not an edifice of wood, stones, &c. but an assembly, and congregation of men; and that not of any sort; not a disorderly, tumultuous assembly, in which sense this word is sometimes taken; nor does it design the faithful of a family, which is sometimes the import of it; nor a particular congregated church, but the elect of God, the general assembly and church of the first born, whose names are written in heaven; and especially such of them as were to be gathered in, and built on Christ, from among the Jews and Gentiles. The materials of this building are such, as are by nature no better, or more fit for it, than others: these stones originally lie in the same quarry with others; they are singled out, and separated from the rest, according to the sovereign will of God, by powerful and efficacious grace; and are broken and hewn by the Spirit of God, generally speaking, under the ministry of the word, and are, by him, made living stones; and being holy and spiritual persons, are built up a spiritual house: and these are the only persons which make up the true and invisible church of Christ in the issue, and are only fit to be members of the visible church; and all such ought to be in a Gospel church state, and partake of the privileges of it: these materials are of different sorts, and have a different place, and have a different usefulness in this building; some are only as common stones, and timber; others are as pillars, beams, and rafters; and all are useful and serviceable; and being put, and knit together, grow up as an holy temple to the Lord: and are called, by Christ, "my" church, because given him by the Father; and he has purchased them with his own blood; are built by him, and on him; inhabited by him, and of whom he is the head, king, and governor; though not to the exclusion of the Father, whose house they also are; nor of the Spirit, who dwells in them, as in his temple. This church Christ promises to "build". Though his ministers are builders, they are but under builders; they are qualified, employed, directed, encouraged, and succeeded by him; he is the wise, able, and chief master builder. This act of building seems to have a special regard to the conversion of God's elect, both among Jews and Gentiles, particularly the latter; and to the daily conversions of them in all ages; and to the building up of saints in faith and holiness; each of which will more manifestly appear in the latter day; and are both generally effected through the word, and ordinances, as means, the Spirit of Christ blessing them. By the rock on which Christ builds his church, is meant, not the person of Peter; for Christ does not say, upon thee Peter, but upon this rock, referring to something distinct from him: for though his name signifies a rock, or stone, and there may be some allusion to it; and he is so called because of his trust and confidence in the Lord, on whom he was built; but not because he was the foundation on which any others, and especially the whole church, were built: it is true, he may be called the foundation, as the rest of the twelve apostles of the Lamb are, Eph 2:20 without any distinction from them, and preference to them; they and he agreeing in laying doctrinally and ministerially Christ Jesus as the foundation of faith and hope, but not in such sense as he is; neither he, nor they, are the foundation on which the church is built, which is Christ, and him only. Moreover, what is said to Peter in these, and the following words, is not said to him personally and separately from the rest of the apostles, but is designed for them, as well as him, as appears by comparing them with Mat 18:18. As he spoke in the name of them all, to Christ; so Christ spake to him, including them all. Peter had no preeminence over the rest of the apostles, which he neither assumed, nor was it granted; nor would it ever have been connived at by Christ, who often showed his resentment at such a spirit and conduct, whenever there was any appearance of it in any of them; see Mat 18:1 and though Peter, with James, and John, had some particular favours bestowed on him by Christ; as to be at the raising of Jairus's daughter, and at the transfiguration of Christ on the mount, and with him in the garden; and he appeared to him alone after his resurrection, and before he was seen by the rest of the disciples; yet in some things he was inferior to them, being left to deny his Lord and master, they did not; and upon another account is called Satan by Christ, which they never were; not to mention other infirmities of his, which show he is not the rock: and, after all, what is this to the pope of Rome, who is no successor of Peter's? Peter, as an apostle, had no successor in his office; nor was he bishop of Rome; nor has the pope of Rome either his office, or his doctrine: but here, by the rock, is meant, either the confession of faith made by Peter; not the act, nor form, but the matter of it, it containing the prime articles of Christianity, and which are as immoveable as a rock; or rather Christ himself, who points, as it were, with his finger to himself, and whom Peter had made such a glorious confession of; and who was prefigured by the rock the Israelites drank water out of in the wilderness; and is comparable to any rock for height, shelter, strength, firmness, and duration; and is the one and only foundation of his church and people, and on whom their security, salvation, and happiness entirely depend. Christ is a rock that is higher than they, where they find safety in times of distress, and the shadow of which is refreshing to them; and therefore betake themselves to him for shelter, and where they are secure from the wrath of God, and rage of men: he is the rock of ages, in whom is everlasting strength; and is the sure, firm, and everlasting foundation on which the church, and all true believers, are laid: he is the foundation of their faith, and hope, and everlasting happiness, and will ever continue; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. The Jews speak of the gates of hell: sometimes of the gate of hell, in the singular number (p); and sometimes of the gates of hell, in the plural number. They say (q), that "Mnhygl vy Myxtp hvlv, "hell has three gates", one in the wilderness, one in the sea, and one in Jerusalem.'' They talk (r) of "an angel that is appointed , "over the gates of hell", whose name is Samriel; who has three keys in his hands, and opens three doors.'' And elsewhere (s) they say, that "he that is appointed over hell his name is Dumah, and many myriads of destroying angels are with him, and he stands , "at the gate of hell"; and all those that keep the holy covenant in this world, he has no power to bring them in.'' Our Lord may allude to these notions of the Jews, and his sense be, that all the infernal principalities and powers, with all their united cunning and strength, will never be able to extirpate his Gospel, to destroy his interest, to demolish his church in general, or ruin anyone particular soul that is built upon him. Again, the gates of "Hades", or hell, sometimes seem to design no other than the gates of death, and the grave, and persons going into the state of death; see Job 38:17 where the Septuagint use the same phrase as here; and then the sense is, that neither death, nor the grave, shall finally, and totally prevail over the people of God, and members of Christ; but they shall be raised out of such a state, and live gloriously with him for ever. By it here is not meant Peter himself; though it is true of him, that Satan, and his posse of devils that beset him, did not prevail against him, so as to destroy his grace, hurt his estate, and hinder his salvation: nor could death, in all its frightful appearances, deter him from holding, and preaching, and maintaining the doctrine of Christ; and though death, and the grave, have now power over him, yet they shall not always detain him: but rather, it designs the doctrine Peter made a confession of; which, though it may be opposed by hell and earth, by Satan, and his emissaries, by the open force of persecutors, and the secret fraud of heretics, it may be brought into contempt by the scandalous lives of professors; and though the true professors of it may die off, yet truth itself always lives, and defies the power of death, and the grave: or else the church in general is meant, and every true believer. These words do not ascertain the continuance of anyone particular congregated church, but secures the church universal, which will continue as long as the sun and moon endure, and the perseverance of everyone of God's elect; and assure that death, and the grave, shall not always have the dominion over the saints, but that they shall be rescued from them. Once more, this "it" may refer to Christ the rock, who, though he was brought to the dust of death, by the means of Satan, and the powers of darkness, yet to the ruin of him that had the power of death; and though death, and the grave, had power over him for a while, yet could not hold him; he rose victorious over them, and ever lives, having the keys of hell and death, to open the gates thereof, and let his people out when he thinks fit. (p) T. Bab. Sabbat, fol. 39. 1. Succa, fol. 32. 2. Bava Bathra, fol. 84. 1. (q) T. Bab. Erubin, fol. 19. 1. Menasseh ben Israel, Nishmat Chayim, fol, 33. 1, 2. (r) Zohar in Gen. fol. 47. 4. (s) Ib. fol. 7. 1.