Peter, The Rock of The Church

 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it - Matthew 16:18.

                   Peter is the first to gather the disciples together to select a replacement for Judas. And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples and said, “Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus; for he was numbered with us and obtained a part in this ministry - Acts 1:15-17. And they cast their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias. And he was numbered with the eleven apostles - Acts 1:26. He became one of the first leaders of the church.

              Peter preached the first gospel message on the day of Pentecost and 3000 souls were saved. When he preached, about three thousand people were baptized and added to the church - Acts 2:41. He preaching boldly before the Sanhedrin in the face of great opposition. Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it - Acts 4:13,14. He shared the gospel with Cornelius and his family. He also preached about the gift of the Holy Spirit and baptism to the gentiles.

               Peter was used mightily by God in the ministry of healing. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength - Acts 3:6,7. They brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them - Acts 5:14.

                                                     

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Let us boldly preach the gospel to all the people. Use us mightily for Your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.