The Apostle Peter: Who was He?

There is perhaps no New Testament figure that is more exaggerated or misrepresented than the Apostle Peter. He is either maligned by some for his perceptible human frailties or exalted for the "mythological" status that is afforded him by others. This exaggerated position has been perpetuated through the years by sermons, literature, and even official Church doctrine. Be it the turncoat coward or the illustrious founder of the papacy Peter's legacy has been unfortunately distorted by extremes and fallacies.

The Bible does indeed depict Peter as one who missteps and misspeaks at times, who even denied Jesus on the night of his arrest but these are but a limited perspective of the whole. Likewise the New Testament shows Peter as a prime leader of the Church who is lauded for his perception and leadership yet it stops far short of presenting him as an inerrant authority figure. What the Bible does portray is Peter, a man entirely human with faults and foibles yet full of passion, faith, love and loyalty.

The contrasting misrepresentations of Peter have in effect created dual caricatures that dissipate the valuable portrait of struggle and successes found in the reality of his life. Those who take the time to read and honestly evaluate the life of Peter as presented throughout the New Testament will discover a poignant and inspirational story that begins with a rough and tumble fisherman and ends with a humble and obedient apostle.

From the outset, Peter is seen as a man who has a tremendous capacity for recognizing the Divine presence and a heart that is tender and responsive to it. After fishing all night without success Jesus tells Peter and his companions to go back out and cast their nets. Somewhat skeptical Peter agrees to do what this teacher has suggested. When the nets are filled to the point where the boats begin to sink, Peter is "seized" with amazement and falls at Jesus' feet saying: "Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!" Peter does not respond to this great catch with the excitement of a fisherman but rather with the reverence and repentance of one who has recognized God.