The Rock! Part 1

Introduction.

In this study we sought to tackle an issue that has affected the church for over a millennia. It is a matter at the root, of many wrong teachings and belief that has come into the church, which has affected its harmony, growth and the pursuit of truth. The defiance of this belief has instigated wars and many have paid with their lives in resisting it. The cause, the interpretation of these simple verses:

Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonha, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My father in haven. And I also say to you that you are [Cephas] Peter [Petros], and on this rock [petra] I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of haven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in haven and whatever you bound loose on earth will be loosed in haven. Then He commanded His disciples that they should tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ. Matthew 16:15-20

The cause of this conflict stems from the word use of Cehphas meaning stone/rock which is translated into a new Greek word Petros [Peter]. And the association of the word [Petros] with the word used for rock [Petra]. The issue at the heart of the matter being; was the Lord referring to Peter to be the rock on which the church is to be built on? or was He making reference to the revelation Peter received. A very large portion of believers hold to the belief that Jesus was speaking to Peter, making him the foundation rock on which the church stands. From which it is argued the apostolic succession [Catholic Papacy] stems from [of which Peter was the first bishop of Rome. Because of this supposed divinely ordained apostolic succession, the pope is considered to be the supreme and authoritative representative of Christ on earth. [MacArthur]. While the remaining others for the most part do not hold to this view, and assert that Jesus was speaking of Himself. And that only, Christ alone is both the head and foundation of the church, and no other can possibly take that place. And submitting to a belief, that sets man as foundation and head is a clear departure from the truth of the gospel.  

This investigation has sought to address this issue by first looking into the basic use of words. It is the approach of this study that the true intent is not drawn from the Greek translation of Petros and Petra but driven from the actual word the Lord used to name Peter, Cephas. While most assumption are made that Jesus spoke Aramaic as His main language. We approach this study with a strong inclination, that Jesus spoke Hebrew in main with Aramaic influence. Based on this concept, we have looked at words used in the old testament for rock and stone that would best relate the Lord’s intent and help to draw a distinction between the name given to Peter and the Rock foundation of the church. Though this approach may appear to be conjecture since most historic new testament records are available in Greek and not in Aramaic/Hebrew, however we hope by applying this method we will be able to shade some light on the words used for rock which the Greek translations would simply overlook.

We have also approached this issue by looking at other scriptural references that would offer proof and help to draw out the true meaning of the text in question. We have done this by looking at the text in context of the chapter and in relation to the testimony of the other Gospel writers. We have addressed the question of foundation of the church by looking into the prophecy of Isaiah and its application relating to Jesus or Peter.

In Part 2, we will examine what it means to be a head over the body of Christ and its expression as a husband to a wife. In relation to this we have examined the presumed unique authority given to Peter and compared it to the authority the Lord gave to all His disciples and also to the teachings of Paul. We also submit that Jesus did send and appoint One to take His place on earth but not what the advocates of the Apostolic succession supposed. Finally we look at what is at the base of this conflict, which in its own right has existed from the birth of the church. In relation to this we have made references to the warnings given by the apostles especially of Peter himself. We end the discourse by detailing the great work the Lord has done through the ministry of the apostle Peter and offering a plausible reason why the Lord chose to call Cephas [rock] which neither seeks to exalt nor diminish him but gives purpose.

Topics Covered.

The Rock! Part 1The Rock! Part 2
Basic Word Definition.The Keys of the Kingdom.
Jesus Spoke: Hebrew and Aramaic.Division in the Church.
The Appropriate use of Words.Peter the Apostle of the Lord.
The Subject in Context.Conclusion.
Foundation Rock.References.

Basic Word Definition:

A brief description of the words for rock/stone used in the Bible and the places where they occur to give an overall insight of what Jesus meant when speaking to [Cephas, Peter] in regards to the above text.

Old Testament Use of Words for [Rock, Stone]

Keph [3710] [Aramaic/Hebrew]: A rock, a hollow rock [hollow of a rock] [used 2x rock]

  • They were driven out from among men, They shouted at them as at a thief. They had to live in the clifts of the valleys, in caves of the earth, and in the rocks [keph]. Job 30:5-6
  • The whole city shall flee form the noise of the horsemen and bowmen; they shall go into thickets, and climb up upon the rocks [keph]: every city shall be forsaken, and not a man dwell therein. Jeremiah 4:29

Cela [5553] [Hebrew]: To be lofty; a craggy rock, [fortress], ragged rock, stone, strong hold. [used 57x rock]

  • “Take the rod; you and your brother Aaron gather the congregation together. Speak to the rock [cela] before their eyes, and it will yield its water; thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock [cela], and give drink to the congregation and their animals.” Numbers 20:8
  • “No one is holy like the Lord, for there is none besides You, Nor is there any rock [cela] like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2
  • And he smote them hip and thigh with a great slaughter: and he went down and dwelt in the top of the rock [cela] Etam. Judges 15:8
  • The Lord is my rock [cela] and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength [tsur], in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. Psalm 18:2
  • He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock [cela] and established my goings. Psalm 40:2

Tsuwr/Tsur [6697] [Hebrew]: Rock, cliff [or sharp rock as compressed], rock with flat surface, boulder, Rock [of God], a refuge also an edge [precipitous]. [Used as rock 64x, strength 5x, God 2x.]

  • Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock [tsur] in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock [tsur], and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.  Exodus 17:6, [the same word and water out of the rock Deuteronomy 8:15.]
  • For I proclaim the name of the Lord: Ascribe greatness to Our God. He is the Rock [tsur], His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He…. Of the Rock [tsur] who begot you, you are unmindful, And have forgotten the God who fathered you. Deuteronomy 32:3-4, 18
  • The God of Israel said, The Rock [tsur] of Israel spoke to me: He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.  2 Samuel 23:3 
  • Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength [tsur], and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14
  • Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock [tsur]  and my salvation; He is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved. Psalm 62:1-2

Eben [68] [Hebrew]: Stone [large and small], stone as a martial [building stone], precious stones [used as stone 247x, weights 7x]

  • The stone [eben] which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. Psalm 118:22-23
  • He will be a sanctuary, but a stone [eben] of stumbling and a rock [tsur] of offense to both the houses of Israel, as a trap and snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.  Isaiah 8:14
  • Therefore thus says the Lord God: “Behold I lay in Zion a stone [eben] for a foundation, a tried stone [eben], a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; Whoever believes will not act hastily. Isaiah 28:16

Eben [69] [Aramaic]: Stone [a, the], a material for idols and buildings. Corresponds to Hebrew [eben [68]]. [Used as stone 8x] 

You watched while a stone [eben] was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, the gold were crashed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found. And the stone [eben] that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth. .. And in the days of these kings the God of haven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. Daniel 2:34-35, 44

New Testament  Use of Words for [Rock, Stone]

Cephas/Kepha [2786] [Written in greek]: refers to the above word Keph: meaning rock, a hollow rock.  This is the actual word Jesus used to call Simon, without the greek translation.  [Kepha as hebrew or aramaic representation need ref.]

  • And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone). John 1:42 [Translated as Stone in some texts but recorded in greek new testament as [Petros], stone in greek is lithos.]
  • Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 1 Corinthians 1:12
  • Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; 1 Corinthians 3:22
  • And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Galatians 2:9

Petros [4074] [Greek]: the name of Peter the apostle: a piece of rock larger than a stone [lithos], a rock or [stone?]  [used as Peter 161x, given as a translation of rock or stone by John 1x] [primary word]

  • Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: first Simon, who is called Peter [Petros]. Matthew 10:2
  • Simon to whom He gave the name Peter [Petros] Mark 3:16
  • Simon, whom He also named Peter [Petros] Luke 6:14

Petra [4073] [Greek]: a rock, cliff or ledge, a projecting rock, a mass of rock, a large stone, a boulder [used as rock 16x]

  • Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock [petra] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock [petra]. Matthew 7:24-25
  • And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock [petra], and rolled a stone [lithos] unto the door of the sepulchre. Mark 15:46
  • He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock [petra]: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock [petra]. Luke 6:48
  • For they stumbled at that stumbling stone [lithos]. As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling stone [lithos] and rock [petra] of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Romans 9:32-33 
  • And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock [petra] that followed them: and that Rock [petra] was Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:4 

Lithos [3037] [Greek]: a stone, small stones [stones on the ground], building stones, precious stones. [used as stone 49x]

  • “Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone [lithos]? Mat 7:9 –
  • Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone [lithos] which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? .. “And whoever falls on this stone [lithos] will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.” Matthew 21:42,44
  • Jesus said, “Take away the stone [lithos].” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” John 11:39-
  • Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones [lithos], wood, hay, straw, 1 Corinthians 3:12

Jesus Spoke: Hebrew and Aramaic.

  • “You are Simon the son of Jonah, you shall be called Ciphas” [which is translated, A stone]. John 1:42
  • Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Tali-tha, Cumi,” which is translated. “Little girl, I say to you arise.” Mark 5:41
  • He sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “be opened.” Mark 7:34
  • At the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? Which is translated “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me.? Some of those who stood by, when they heard that said, “Look, He is calling for Elijha!” Mark 15:34-35

The premise: Why were those verses recored in Aramaic and given a specific translation? No arguments is made against Jesus speaking Aramaic those words and phrases being evident. However, we present this thought; If a man is making a speech and made it in the english language and people were recording what he says [translating it into french], they would not randomly pick a phrases and say, for example: he said “goodbye” which is translated “au revoir”. But if he was speaking english and he said “ciao” and they will record, that he said “ciao” which is translated “au revoir”. Now, we reading the transcript of this man’s speech in french should we assume he spoke it in italian, because of the use “ciao”? it is obvious to us the translation is in french but the original langue is debatable. The phrase does not mean the speech was made in italian, rather that it was spoken in another language with evidence, that the speaker knew italian.

There are also many words that are used that have got their root in Aramaic, such as Abba, Mammon, Racca but these also are evidence that the Hebrew language has got a shared or has an Aramaic influence due to its history with Babylon, Mede and Persian empires and the years of Israel’s exile in those lands.

We approach this with this in mind. That it is not a forgone conclusion that Jesus spoke Aramaic as His main language and we present the following Scriptures as to support the premise. We also make this suppositions the language common to the Roman soldiers and the Jews is Greek. The Greeks who overthrew the Persian and Mede empires have sought to impress the culture and language over those they ruled. Their empire that stretched as far as Asia and Egypt has Greek as a common language. The Romans that came on the heels of the Greek, made use of the language the previous empire has laid down. It is unlikely the Greeks and Romans would have sought to adapt Aramaic.

This influence is evident over their area of domain since there is evidence of the old testament being translated into Greek yet only Daniel [part] and Ezra having been recorded in Aramaic. And Daniel because he bares the testimony for the kings he served the great work God has done in their sight, which they proclaimed throughout their empire [Aramaic being the choice language].

In those days I also saw Jews who had married women of Ashod, Ammon, and Moab. And half of their children spoke the language of Ashod, and could not speak the language of Judah, but according to the language of one or the other people. So I contended with them, struck some of them… made them swear by God saying, “You shall not give your daughters as wives to their sons, nor take their daughters for your sons or yourselves. Nehemiah13:23-25

The book of Nehemiah details the effort expended to restore Judea. The steps they took to correct what they thought the have done wrong, even to send away wives and children they have begotten form foreigners surrounding the area.  Here Nehemiah speaks with such disappointment that their children half did not speak the language of Judah and the steps he took. The point is the restoration of the language of the people of Judah was high on his agenda as is the law and the wall.

So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the the book,.. Luke 4:16-17

The Scriptures were written in Hebrew, with the exception of Daniel and Ezra. Here, it does not say that He was given a scroll of Isaiah and He read it in Hebrew, but just that He read; the language in which He read it is assumed and also of the statement He made after. And He was in His home town Nazareth in Galilee, that He read and spoke in Hebrew.

Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Ava, Hamath, and from Sephraravim and placed them in the cities of Samaria: instead of the children of Israel.  Then one of the persists whom they had carried away from Samaria came and dwelt in Bethel and taught them how they should fear the Lord.  2 Kings 17:24, 28 [2 Chronicles 30:6, 9: speaks of the remnant that escaped exile in Israel, when the king of Assyria took most of them captive.] Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. John 4:9

Samaritans are said to be mixed of Jews and gentiles. That the language may differ than that of the Jews in Judea [Hebrew]. Since Samaritans were brought from those lands by the kings of Assyria the Aramaic language would be in dominance. Jesus who lived in Galilee which is north of Samaria, and according to the law would have to pass through that region at least 3 times a year to present Himself in the temple, would have to interact with those in Samaria. The fact that it records Jews have no dealings with Samaritans is a point that those leaving in Judea would have no use for Aramaic.

When Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani” the bible records some those who heard Him said “Look, He is calling for Elijha!” There is no specific mention of who those are? But the point is being made that, they did not know what He said. He was crucified in Jerusalem, most of the population would be Jews. It is unlikely those who heard Him and acted were Roman soldiers, because that would require knowledge of scripture and who Elijha is. So if an average man in Judah did not speak Aramaic as in to understand what the Lord said why would the One sent to the household of the children of Israel preach in Aramaic?

Now Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross. and the writing was: Jesus of Nazareth, The King of the Jews. Then many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. John 19:19-20

The reason Pilot wanted to make that statement and wrote it in three different languages is that he wanted everyone to know it. As wide as a net as possible, yet Aramaic is not mentioned. If the language of the common people was indeed Aramaic he would have written it so. This is evidence enough at lest in Judah the language used in public is Hebrew, Greek and Latin. He wrote the message, during Passover, when Jews from the known world would come to Jerusalem to celebrate the fest and those 3 languages were the best way to ensure maximum effect and no Aramaic.

“Look are not all these who speak Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and Parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful work of God.” Acts 2:7-11

Here it says how the people who are gathered from all over the world were speaking to one another saying how this simple Galileans were able to speak in their native language. The area covered is greater than the influence of the Aramaic domain then the common language, that binds them all has to be Hebrew, since they were their to worship God take part in service and hear His words spoken. And many have taught saying in temple and synagogues the Hebrew language is used. Though Greek would have had a great influence as well.

Then as Paul was about to be led into the barracks, He said to the commander, “May I speak to you?” He replied “Can you speak Greek? Are you not the Egyptian who some time … So when he has given him permission to speak Paul stood on the stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language saying: Acts 21:37, 40 [And]  And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent. Acts 22:2

[Here we have the same scenario as in Acts 2 day of Pentecost, those who were gathered from all over the world.] There are two points we can deduce from the above scriptures: the first one is the reason the  commander was surprised Paul spoke Greek is because he thought he was an Egyptian. The bases being that Jews spoke Greek a language they communicated with the Roman soldiers. When the soldier took him off the hand of the mob he was not able to ascertain from them what he has done because one said one thing and another something else, yet he understood the crowd. Second point is when Paul turned to address the the crowd there was a change in language not to Aramaic but to Hebrew. The point is all who were gathered from all over the world to celebrate the feast all became quite as he spoke in Hebrew [a common language to them all].

In relation to the Greek language: Now there were certain Greeks… who came to Phillip and said “Sir, we would like to see Jesus.” and Phillip found Andrew and Andrew came and told Jesus. John 12:20-22 and also the incident with Paul Paul’s nephew when he came to tell Paul how an ambush was set up and he sent his nephew to speak to the commander to relay the message. Acts 23:19-20. The point is there is a seamless communication between Greeks, Romans and Jews and that language was Greek.      

In summary the language Jesus used mainly is Hebrew. The fact that the Aramaic phrases were recoded is evidence that He was able to speak Aramaic not that He spoke it regularly. Jesus sole mission being sent to the children of Israel would require that He address them in Hebrew [as well as His interaction with the religious leaders in temple and synagogues.] While emphases are made when Greek and Hebrew are used no such account is made of Aramaic, only its remnant influence on their the language is recorded. The fact that His disciples were from Galilee and like the Lord were able to speak Hebrew as well as Aramaic, is a feature that would enable them later to preach to the Samaritans. 

The final point to make in regards of how Jesus addressed the children of Israel, is the words He used to call Saul. Here Paul is testifying before the court, where king Agrippa and Festus and many others are gathered, and he explains how Jesus spoke in Hebrew not aramaic.        

And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying in the Hebrew language, “Saul, Saul …” Acts 26:14    

The Appropriate Use of Words.

The main approach for this discussion is that Jesus spoke [Hebrew with Aramaic] so when Jesus spoke those words “you are Cephas [Kepha] and on this rock [keph/ cela/ tsur] I will build My church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” In the greek translation of the new testament the greek words [Petros] and [petra] are used. The first, the name of Peter the second the foundation on which the church is to be built on. The greek word [petra] is used mainly for a big rock, a boulder, cliff edge, and that would have to be the right intent since it is a basses a building is to be put upon it. But to use the corresponding word in Hebrew to carry the true intent of His meaning of the three words [keph/ cela/ tsur] the list likely is [keph].

In the old testament the word [keph] was used only twice, in both terms as a place to run and flee to, a place to hide into when driven away from home [they fled into the rocks and climbed upon the rocks to get away]. The translation given to it is a hollow rock because its root word resembles the hollow of hand. To say that Jesus intended to build His church on this rock [a hollow one] does not quite carry the gravity of the strength He wants to express. The next sentence that followed is that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

[Consider: Just because [Petros and petra] are similar, does not mean the original statement is [Cephas [Kepha] and keph], that does not stand with the meaning and intent of text. The word meaning and its suitability have to be taken into consideration especially when words that suits the intent are available for use.]

The word [cela] used in the old testament more than 50 times, meaning rugged rock, a fortress a strong hold has more application than [keph] in its intent to carry the meaning. It is a word that signifies not a place just to flee to but more than that a secure place to run to, a place of protection and security and safety. It is closely associated with God Himself. It is used as a sure foundation to stand on by David in His psalms. But the main point to take from the use of this word is from Numbers 20:8 where God instructed Moses saying “Speak to the rock [cela] before their eyes, and it will yield its water.” To which Moses through sheer frustration struck the rock twice and it yielded water. And Paul uses this very concept the Rock that brought forth water, and calls that Rock Christ in 1 Corinthians 10:4.

However the word [tsur] seems to carry more gravity than [cela] because it is used to express: Rock, cliff [or sharp rock as compressed], rock with flat surface, boulder, even as synonym for God. It is used more than 60 times in the old testament. But this word is also used interchangeably with [cela] to express the same message of water out of the Rock in Exodus 17:6, Deuteronomy 8:15 and other texts. The same example Paul used to associate Christ with this Rock. The fact that Jesus is God, and the word [tsur] has been used as synonym for God, would be the more appropriate word for Jesus to use and to precede that statement “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” because of its security, firmness and because it stands on none other than God.  

Lost in Translation

Here we will demonstrate how the Greek translation does not make any distinction in the word used for rock. While deferent words are used to express rock in Hebrew. Both verses bellow are expressing the very same sentiment that people are running and hiding in caves and rocks. And the word used for rock in the old testament is the Hebrew word [keph] and the Greek word [petra] in the new.

  • They were driven out from among men, They shouted at them as at a thief. They had to live in the clifts of the valleys, in caves of the earth, and in the rocks [keph]. Job 30:5-6
  • the mighty man, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in caves and in the rocks [petra] of the mountains. Revelation 6:15

Following from above, here also both the new and old testament are relaying the very same concept that is water out of the rock and referring to the same passage of Scripture, yet the Hebrew words [Cela] and [tsur] are used to describe a rock in the old testament but the new testament again uses the greek word [petra]. That the same word [petra] is used for [keph, cela, and tsur].

  • thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock [cela], and give drink to the congregation and their animals.” Numbers 20:8
  • and thou shalt smite the rock [tsur], and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. Exodus 17:6, Deuteronomy 8:15.
  • And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock [petra] that followed them: and that Rock [petra] was Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:4 

The Septuagint Translation:

We have also looked at the Septuagint translation, to demonstrate the lack of the Greek vocabulary in capturing the richness of the Hebrew text. In each of these cases as above the Hebrew gives a distinct word for rock; such as Keph, Cela and Tsur but for each one of these instance the Septuagint uses the Greek word Petra.

  • Jeremiah 4:29, Job 30:5-6 = keph translated as Petra.  
  • Number 20:8 = Cela translated as Petra.  
  • Exodus 17:6, Deuteronomy 8:15 = Tsur translated as Petra.

It is in this manner, the sentiment of the Lord, was lost in translation from the Hebrew/Aramaic speech to Greek. From the evidence above we can make a strong suggestion that the words the Lord would have spoken are: “And I also say to you, that you are [Cephas/Kepha], and on this rock [cela/tsur] I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”  [Matthew 16:18]. Showing a clear distinction between the name for Peter and the rock of the church.

The Subject in Context.

What is being discussed when Christ spoke to Peter saying this words “on this rock I will build My Church.” Was He referring to the revelation God the Father gave to Peter saying that “Jesus is the Son of God, the Christ” or that you [Peter] are the rock and on you I will build My church.

The House Built on the Word.

In order to best express the intent of the Lord when speaking of the foundation of the church we have thought it best to read the main text in parallel to [Matthew 7:24-25 and Luke 6:48] . In this parable Jesus uses an example of wise builder who built his house upon the rock. He explained it as such that the man who heard His word and obeyed it, is like a man who dug deep into the ground and built his house/laid the foundation on the rock. In saying this the Lord is drawing a parallel between His word and the rock. To this He adds the rain descended, the floods came and the winds blew and beat upon this house and it withstood them because it was founded on the rock.

This is the very same concept Jesus is expressing in this discourse with Peter and His disciples, about His church. That His church is built upon a rock [a firm, a sure foundation, unshakeable] and the gates of hell [the winds and the storms] will not prevail against it. The Lord shows us the strength of His words in His speech saying “Haven and earth will pass away but My words will by no means pass away.” Matthew 24:35, Luke 21:33. From here, we can see clearly that the Lord’s intent with regards to the main text, that His the church is built on nothing else but upon Himself, upon His word. 

What is the significance of Jesus being the Christ?

To address this we will look at what the church is, and how are members added to it [how it is built up]. The best point to do this is, at the very first instance of the birth of the new testament church.

The church is a gathering of people who hold to the belief that Jesus is the Son of God. To this effect the day the church was born on the day of Pentecost, Peter gave his very first sermon full of the Holy Spirit, and his message was this: Jesus is the Messiah, who was crucified and put to death, whom God raised up and exalted to His righthand. And He has now poured out on us, the promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit. This, Jesus God has made both Lord and Messiah. And the bible records those who gladly received his word were baptised; and that day about tree thousand souls were added to them. This is the very first record of the church making converts and it is growth: the church being built up. Acts 2

Based on the summary of the discussion [in the main text], the above reasoning encapsulate the true desired intent. The fact that it is a building being built [the church], a foundation to stand on [a rock], then the only reasonable conclusion has to be Jesus is speaking about Himself not Peter.

The Gates of Hades.

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

What did Jesus mean by the gates of Hades? Did He mean the power of the wicked one will not overcome it or death will not conquer it? Gates have the control over who comes in and goes out, the Lord blessed Abraham saying “and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies.” Genesis 22:17 That is may they rule over, possess, their enemies. The devil through the power of sin and death had such rule.

We have examples of, the souls of the deceased entering and coming out of Hades.  

  • He being in Hades and in torment looked up and saw Abraham a far of.. [Luke 16:23]
  • Death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them… [Revelation 20:13]

The fact that Jesus used the words “the gates of Hades” He is referring to the aspect of death and not as of the contention of the wicked one. But to say that those who have put their hopes on the Rock, that is Jesus will not come into shame. The gates of Hades [death] will not prevail against them, to take hold and possess them as it does those who die without faith in Jesus Christ. Prior to the redeeming work of Jesus, all had to enter the gates of Hades as portrayed in the parable of Lazarus but the Spirit now declares, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” Revelation 14:13, because they will never see Hades.

The Lord also declared saying: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” [John 11:25-26] That is the means by which we are saved from sin and death and the Lord warned saying: “unless you believe that I am He you will die in your sins.” [John 8:24], that is, He is the Christ the Son of God. The consequence of being in sin is death [Romans 6:23]. As Adam was told “for in the day that you eat of it you will surely die.” [Genesis 2:17]

The devil is a defeated foe. In Hebrews it says, “through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. [Hebrews 2:14-15] That, Jesus Christ is the One who possess the gates of His enemies as He declares: “And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” [Revelation 1:18] 

Yet, the Lord after giving His disciples authority over all the power of the enemy said; “Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in haven.” [Luke 10:20] The object is to give us life. Paul also writes, of the final victory and redemption of our bodies saying: “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?’ The sting of death is sin, ….. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  [1 Corinthians 15:55-57] The victory over sin and death.

Therefore, the Lord is speaking of the death when referring to “the gates of Hades” then Peter is not the Rock the church is built on. Since it is not faith in Peter that saves us from death and Hades, But Jesus Christ the Son of the living God. Jesus is the gateway to life, as He says: “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. [John 10:9]

As to the contention of the wicked one: The Lord taught saying; of the hate and tribulations to come [Matthew 24:9] and “if they persecuted Me they will persecute you.” [John 15:20] Paul also wrote of the various oppositions he faced, and the troubles the churches experienced: “we must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” [Acts 14:22] and how they suffered much conflict and were spitefully treated [1 Thessalonians 2:2], and encourages the church for the persecutions and tribulations endured [2 Thessalonians 1:4], and to remember those who are mistreated. [Hebrews 13:3] Peter also writes “if anyone suffers for the name of Christ.” [1 Peter 4:14] The point Paul makes clear is that, our fight is not of flesh and blood but powers and rulers of darkness [Ephesians 6:12], as the Lord also exhorts the various churches of the trouble they faced, from the wicked one and of the false teachings [Revelation 2:9-11, 13, 14-15, 20]  and of the victory the Lord says:

And they overcome him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to death. [Revelation 12:11] 

What is the significance of Peter answering that question?

Does Peter answering the question has any significance? This question determines the heart of the issue. What would be the significance if John answered that question? Would John be the rock the church is built on? If we give significance to the person who answered it then, the very answer [Jesus] becomes a side point, and the question irrelevant. However, if we say Jesus is the point then the question has validity, Peter becomes a blessed person who engages Him in His teaching. Which is, Jesus will build His church on the truth of who He is and will give us believers the keys to the kingdom. We aim to show this point by demonstrating the revelation is not unique to Peter and the fact Jesus asked the same question twice point to the importance of the answer.

To this we need to consider the revelation given by God the Father at the mount of transfiguration to Peter, John & James, audibly saying “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” [Matthew 17:5] And finally revelations given by the Father is not an isolated to Peter nor to John and James, but was first given to John the Baptist who testified saying: “I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptise with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptises with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” We can also consider, Simon and Anna in the temple all who had revelation from the Father.

The next point we should take account of is, the fact Jesus asked the same question twice. The first in regards to  the crowd and the second to His disciples. If His purpose was to give significance to the one who answers, He need only ask it once and that directed at His disciples only. Since the assumed purpose of the question would be to identify one to be rock and head and the crowd play no factor in that. 

The last point we should take into consideration is, if revelation from God the Father was intended to identify him and separate him from the other disciples, then you also have to consider being used by Satan a moment later a disqualification point.

Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!” But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.” [Matthew 16:23, 8:33]

[Consideration: We can illustrate the above concept in a classroom: if a teacher asks a question and a student rises and gives an answer: the teacher will engage the student and expound on the very answer he gave. Is the significance of the student any other than being gifted in answering the question? And in engaging the student is the teacher teaching only that student or the whole class?]

By the word of 2 to 3 witness the truth is established.

Further points to consider is that, if Jesus intent was the bestowing of authority and the declaration that Peter is to be the rock foundation of the church, then the question is, why have the other gospel writers left that part out. Is the structure of the church which is to stand time eternal of little consequence? Yet all four gospels recorded Peter’s response affirming that Jesus is the Son of God and that He is the Christ [Messiah].         

  • Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:18 [check main text for the remainder of the discourse]
  • “Who do men say that I am?” So they answered, “John the Baptist; but some say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.” Then He strictly warned them that they should tell no one about Him. Mark 8:27-30
  • He asked them, saying, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” So they answered and said, “John the Baptist, but some say Elijah; and others say that one of the old prophets has risen again.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.” And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one, Luke 9:18-21
  • But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. “Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” John 6:68-69

The Final Instruction.

The last point to be made under this topic is that after this brief discussion, Jesus makes a point to give them a strict warning, commanding them that they should tell no one, that He is the Christ Israel has been waiting for. And Mark and Luke record His instruction to keep it a secret immediately after the revelation of His identity. This point is added, to show the string of thought that runs through out the discourse, is Jesus’ identity.

The summary of this section is that the subject under discussion is the identity of Jesus [as a revelation given by God the Father]. The fact Jesus asked the same question twice points to the importance of the answer. The vital aspect of the revelation in the formation of the church and the ground on which it is built. The repeated witness given by the remaining other gospels, and the importance of the revelation remaining a secret for the given time, and the consequence of that truth on the personhood of Jesus.

[And I also say to you that you are [Petros], and on this rock [petra] [on this truth, that I am the Son of God, the Messiah], I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades [Death] shall not prevail against it. ]

Foundation Rock.

Therefore thus says the Lord God: “Behold I lay in Zion a stone [eben] for a foundation, a tried stone [eben],a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; Whoever believes will not act hastily. Isaiah 28:16

The main text for this part of the discussion is Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming Messiah. Here Isaiah address Him both the foundation that is laid [a tried stone, the sure foundation] and that He is also the cornerstone. Both the foundation and the head. 

 Coming to Him [Jesus] as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.” Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, “The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone,” “A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. 1 Peter 2:4-8

Here Peter himself uses the the text above to emphasis that it is speaking of Jesus Christ and that He is the cornerstone that is laid and that He is also the Chief Cornerstone. And we as living stones are being built upon it. Peter was not in any way under any faulty understanding that suggested that the church which is being built was upon himself nor that Jesus has set him as the head to rule over his brethren and His church. If Peter himself did not see it as such how is it that we have? 

To further assert this position, there is the aspects of words Jesus used when He named Peter [Cephas/Kepha]: if in some translation this was put as a stone, that is what Jesus called Peter. And have asserted that the word [keph] means both large and small stone (though, has not been shown as such)  and that there is no other suitable word in Aramaic to express the intent. However, if Jesus wanted to call him a stone He had a very suitable word in Aramaic to use [eben], which means exactly that: [a stone great and small, a martial used for building]. If the Lord’s thought were to set Peter as a foundation of His building then this word would have been the perfect fit since it is the very same word Isaiah used when referring to the the foundation to be laid in Zion. 

A Tried Stone. 

We will approach this section to answer, to whom the Rock as in [a foundation of the church] apply to: Jesus or Peter. For this we will use part of the text from Isaiah 28:16 [a tried Stone, a sure foundation] and compare the text’s suitability to Jesus or Peter. And hope through the process to show the frail nature of man and there can never be any other Rock, but Jesus Christ.

For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings…. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted He is able to aid those who are tempted. Hebrews 2:10-11, 18

For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathise with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. [let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16

The above verses from Hebrews, speak of how Jesus was tested, tempted in every way and yet without sin. That fits the prophecy of Isaiah for a tried stone, and being found without fault can be a sure foundation. Bearing this in mind and drawing from the broad and common knowledge of Peter’s actions, it is clear it does not apply to him. Since Peter, being tried, he failed repeatedly: and he became an example of the frailty of man and the exceeding abundance of God’s grace to those who love Him.

The following examples are given to show the frailty of Peter and not to catalogue the errors of the apostle of the Lord. But through it to demonstrate that Peter, in himself was not a sure foundation, and in these occasions the attempts of hell prevailed against him.

  • He rebuked Jesus: [Matthew 16:22-23, Mark 8:32-33]

After receiving a revelation form God the Father to who Jesus was a few minutes earlier. In this verses when Peter, spoke in apparent defence of the Lord, Jesus rebuked Peter, saying “Get behind Me, Satan! [You are an offence to Me,] For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men. ”    

  • He denied Jesus 3 times: [Matthew 26:69-75, Mark 14:66-72, Luke 22:55-62, John 18:25-27]

Though Peter braved it, to follow Jesus to the very courtyard of those who arrested the Lord, When confronted to his knowledge of the Lord and being identified as one who followed Him, Peter denied the Lord. The fear of those who were around him was enough to make him fall away.     

  • He went back to fishing: [John 21:2-3]

The last days of the Lord has been the hardest on Peter. Though he knew the call of the Lord to follow Him, to be a fisher of men and has spent over 3 years in preparation of it. Peter, at his apparent stumble was prepared to go back to his old life to be a fisherman and this act he took along with him half the disciples.

  • He enforced separation of Jew and Gentile: [Galatians 2:11-14] 

In the this text Paul describes how he found an occasion to rebuke Peter since his action was not in keeping with the truth of the gospel. The magnitude of this error has to be expounded on; because Peter was instructed by haven that there ought not to be no difference between Jew and Gentile. He was given a vision and told he should not call common whom God has cleansed. And the acceptance of the Gentiles to God was demonstrated right before his eyes in Cornelius’s house Acts 10. Yet because he was called to make account why he went into the gentiles the last time around when confronted with a similar situation in Galatia, he acted contrary to the word of God through fear of men. He acted in hypocritical manner and through his action mislead other Jews that were with him. But the error was so offensive to Paul, he did not live it be, but brought public accusation of the wrong he has done. [To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. James 1:17]

“Behold I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation,a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation,” & “and on this rock, I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.”

Paul’s Association of Jesus to the Rock.

To further shore up this position, we will consider the words of Jesus as written in the gospel of John. Here, Jesus is speaking to those gathered for the feast of tabernacle [feast of booths] and he tells them, “to come to Him and to drink”, speaking of the Holy Spirit. This feast which is held in remembrance of the time the children of Israel spent time in the wilderness [living in booths]. During which, they were fed, Manna from haven and drunk water from the Rock. Though it was not stated expressly by Jesus, His sentiment is given light by the apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 10:3-4.

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out saying, “if anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” [John 7:37-38] And John records that this He spoke about the Holy Spirit, which was not given yet.

To this Paul associates Jesus to be the Rock that followed the children of Israel in the wilderness from whom they drunk.

all ate the same spiritual food, and drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ.  1 Corinthians 10:3-4

The final point to be made on this point is from the teaching of Paul, when addressing what seems to be a division within the Corinthian church. He expressly states that Jesus is the only foundation and no other foundation can any man set except Him.

According to the grace of God which is given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid which Jesus Christ.  1 Corinthians 3: 10-11 

Therefore, in summary of the above points, Jesus Christ would not have spoke contrary to the word of God, spoken through Isaiah and set another foundation [Peter] on which the church is to be built on. This point which Peter himself affirms in his epistle and finally Paul’s statement that there is no other foundation but Jesus Christ.  

[These being said, it is not clear in what capacity the apostle Peter plays a role as a foundation of the church. With respect of being a rock, on which it stands. The above approach has sought to distinguish the foundation [rock] from the headship aspect. And hope to address the question of headship as a clear distinction over his brethren (the disciples) and the body of Christ in the following section.]

Continued in The Rock! Part 2

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