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Doctrinal Study series: Church History
April 2, 2023
THE CHURCH IS BUILD UPON THE ROCK
Lesson no.1
     It is very important to learn from the great lessons of the past. Some are bound to repeat its mistakes because they fail to learn from the history. May God help us to learn from the past and can thus help us live righteously in our present life.
     Read Matthew 16:13 and tell us what is the question asked by Jesus to His disciples? ___________________________
Matthew 16:13 “When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?”
     If you were to try to ask this particular question of Jesus to other people (whether to your friends, neighbors, co-employees, classmates, relatives, what will be the answer they will give you? Can this question of Jesus an important question? Please support your answer, why important or why not important? _________________________________
     Open and read Matthew 16:13 and Matthew 16:15 and give the difference of the questions asked in these two verses.
Matthew 16:13 “When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?”
Matthew 16:15 “He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?”
     If Jesus asked you the question in Matthew 16:15, what would be your personal answer? ____________________
     Now, Look Matthew 16:16, to find out how did Peter answer this question of Jesus? ______________________________
Matthew 16:16 “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
     
     In Matthew 17:17, What is the comment of Jesus to Peter’s answer, did Jesus considered it correct or wrong? __________
Matthew 16:17 “And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.”
In this verse, know how did Peter know these very important answer? Did it signify that Peter is a very intelligent person? Or did Peter enroll in a very outstanding theological college or seminary? Know the key and know who revealed to Peter that spiritual understanding and knowledge concerning who Jesus is? ____________________________________
     Can you give the key in your understanding of spiritual things? _______________________________________
I Corinthians 2:9-15 “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.”
According to this passage, when it comes to understanding of the truth, do you believe that you can understand it on your own, or do you believe does the truth need to be revealed by God Himself to you personally? ______________________

I - FIRST POPE IS NOT PETER
     The very important verse which has been greatly misunderstood and misinterpreted by many is Matthew 16:18.
Matthew 16:18 “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
In this very important and very clear verse, we can know that Jesus was saying about Peter, Jesus was also saying about the Church, and then Jesus was saying about Himself. But the big question we need to deal with is: “Who is the Rock?”
     Please identify the builder of the Church, who said “I will build My church?” _______________________________
This is a Bible doctrinal truth, that teaches that Jesus Christ is the great Builder of the church. Therefore, the church is not built by a man, nor any human founder, the church is only built by the Lord Jesus Christ. Take a look again in Matthew 16:18 and know according to Jesus who church it is?
Matthew 16:18 “I will build my church.” Is anybody right whether it is the Pastor, deacons, Sunday school teacher, church members, when they boastfully and personally said “This is My church!” It is clear and biblical doctrine that everybody must believe that the church belongs to Jesus Christ, for it is His Church. We all need to constantly be reminded that it is
God’s church and not my church nor our church. It is very clear and cannot be denied neither hid that according to Matthew 16:18, the church is built by Christ because He is the builder and the church belongs to Christ for it is His church and the church is built upon a Rock. Thus, the church is built upon a solid Rock and not built upon dirt or sand.
     We all know literally that a building must have a good foundation that is why it is very important for a building to have a solid foundation. Now, the church of Jesus Christ is built upon a Rock-solid foundation. When God builds something, God builds it well, and puts it upon a solid base. We now therefore conclude, that the church is built upon the Rock, the solid foundation. Can you identify who is this Rock? That is the question, we have to deal with in this lesson.                                                              

II - FALSE ANSWER OF THE CATHOLIC
     The bible verse we have been discussed at Matthew 16:18, were used by Catholic theological teachers to support one of their key beliefs about the foundation of the church.
The Catholic answer to the question “who is this Rock?” is: The Rock is Peter. That is the Catholic belief to defend their foundational belief of the church. Catholic believe that Peter is the solid rock upon whom the church is built and not upon Christ. Thus, Catholic believe that the church of Jesus Christ is built upon Peter. According to Catholic deceitful and false teachings, Christ is the builder, the church belongs to Christ, however Peter is the foundation of the Church. The Catholic confusing and twisted position from Matthew 16:18 “Thou art Peter, and upon this rock (Peter) I will build My Church.” They interpret the verse that the rock mentioned in this verse referred to Peter.
     According to Catholic Church Christ appointed Peter to be the first Pope. The Catholic interpreted the words of Jesus in Matthew 16:18 “Peter, I will build My Church upon you. You will be the first Pope and the first visible head of the church.”
     In today’s world, there is a famous, powerful, influential, esteemed highly man, who is called the “Pope.” This man is mentioned and seen often in the news. This man travels to different countries. This man leads religious ceremonies on different occasion and celebration every year in the world. This man recognizes by the Catholic people around the world as their leader and their head. Are you much familiar about this man “Pope.” Being religious leader, from what authority does this man called Pope have? What the Catholic believe about the Pope.
     If we are going to ask the Catholic “Who is the Pope?”. The answer of the Catholic is: “"The pope is Christ’s representative on earth as the lawful successor of St. Peter and visible head of the church. Just as a human body has one head, so does the Church have one Head who is Christ. The Pope is His Vicar, or representative, on earth, the visible head of the church" (Baltimore Catechism). Besides, the Catholic church also believes that Peter was “the Apostle chosen by Christ to be the head, or first Pope, of the Church He founded” (Baltimore Catechism). The Catholic teaches that the time when the Lord Jesus spoke to Peter in Matthew16:18, the Lord was choosing or appointing Peter as the first Pope and the representative of Christ as Peter would take the place of Christ on earth as the visible head of the church. 
Some of the theological views according to Catholic Catechism:
1. Christ put one man in complete charge of His Church to make sure His Church would always be united.
2. The Pope, the bishop of Rome and the Vicar (agent) of Christ on earth, has the complete charge of the church.
3. The Pope, is the visible head of the whole Catholic Church
4. Peter was made the first Pope by Jesus Christ Himself.
5. Several months before Jesus died, He promise to make Peter the Pope (Matthew 16:18 “Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church”). (By William J. Cogan, “A Brief Catechism for Adults”, Catholic book)
     Peter was just the first of many according to the Catholic belief. Let us read what they have said, “Christ did not intend that the special power of Chief teacher and ruler of the entire church should be exercised by Saint Peter alone, but intended that this power should be passed down to his successor, the Pope, the Bishop of Rome, who is the Vicar of Christ on earth and the visible head of the Church” (Baltimore Catechism).
     Is the authority of Peter ended in time of his death? No, Peter’s authority was handed down to a man named Linus, and after Peter died around 78 A.D., his authority was handed down to Cletus (d. 90 A.D.), and then handed down to Clement (d. 100 A.D.), and after that to another man, and after that to so on, and so on, that was during the past nearly 2,000 years. (Catholic Book: A Brief Catechism for Adults by William J. Cogan, page 60).
     Although the Catholics believe that Peter was the first pope, however they also believed that many other popes would follow. The Pope of todays world believes that he himself is the representative of Jesus Christ and many people were deceived that when they looked at the Pope, they assume they saw God in the person of the Pope. Besides, according to the Catholic, the Pope is the visible head of the church. It is a lie, do not believed this!
     Read John 16:7-16 and John 14:16-18 and know who did Christ choose to take His place on earth? Is it Peter or is it someone else? Who is that? __________________
John 16:7-16 “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; 11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.”
John 14:16-18 “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”
     There is someone chosen by the Lord Jesus, who takes the place of Jesus on the earth.
     Read John 16:7-16 and John 14:16-18 and know who is that someone takes the place of Jesus on the earth, is it Peter the first pope of the Catholic or is it someone else? _____________
John 16:7-16 “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; 11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.”
John 14:16-18 “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”
     Read Ephesians 1:20-22 and Colossians 1:18, then identify the head of the church? ____________________
Ephesians 1:20-22 “Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,”
Colossians 1:18 “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”
Read Ephesians 4:5, then tell how many Lords does the church have? __________________
Ephesians 4:5 “One Lord, one faith, one baptism,”
     There is only One Lord and there is only One head. Christ is not invisible head and as some man as its visible head on this earth. Christ is the builder of the Church; Christ is the owner of the Church and Christ is the head of the Church. We should not take away from the Lord Jesus Christ that which only belongs to Him and ascribe it to others.
     The word “Pope” comes from the latin “papa” which means “father.” Read Matthew 23:9 and know what Jesus say for those who were using the term “Father” or “Papa” describing and treating a mere man like of the Father in heaven. There is nothing wrong calling your father in the flesh “father” or “Papa”, but the Bible forbids us to call any mere man in this earth as your heavenly father or considering any a mere man like your father in heaven. _______________________ .
Matthew 23:9 “And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.”
     Some people especially devoted catholic referred the pope as the “The Holy Father.” Do you agree that a mere man should be called by a title “Holy Father.”? (Look at John 17:11) ______
John 17:11 “And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.”
     The heavenly Father is holy, and sinless contrary to a human being who were sinful and come short of the glory of God.
Did you notice that the pope anywhere in the world or even in the news described by the word “Pontiff.” This word “Pontiff” literally means “bridge builder.” It was illustrated by a bridge stands in the middle of two side points and aids you to go and reach the other point from one point. In other words, the Pope as described as Pontiff personally claims to be the bridge or mediator which means “go-between” between God and men. Read I Timothy 2:5, then answer who is the only Mediator between God and man according to the Bible? _________________
I Timothy 2:5 “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;”
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III - FALSE DOCTRINE OF INFALLIBILITY OF THE POPE
     Catholic believe that the Catholic Church and the Catholic Pope are infallible. The word infallible means the inability to be wrong or mistaken or inaccurate or misleading, therefore not liable to error. It is very important that we understand what the Catholic mean by the word “infallible” with regards to Pope.
     Let us read some statements written on one of the Catholic book: "By the infallibility of the Catholic Church is meant that the Church, by the special assistance of the Holy Ghost, cannot err when it teaches or believes a doctrine of faith or morals. Infallibility does not mean that the Pope cannot commit a sin, but that in teaching a doctrine of faith or morals, he is prevented by the Holy Ghost from making a mistake. The Church teaches only truth. The Church teaches infallibly when it defines, through the Pope alone, as the teacher of all Christians, or through the Pope and the bishops, a doctrine of faith or morals to be held by all the faithful" (Baltimore Catechism).
     With regards to the infallibility of the Pope, let us read some comments by a writer of a catholic book: "Papal infallibility means that the Pope, when speaking as head of the whole church on matters of faith or morals, cannot teach error.  Infallibility is not to be confused with impeccability, which means that one cannot commit sin. The Pope is not impeccable; he can sin" (A Brief Catechism for Adults by William J. Cogan, p. 61).
     The Catholic claims that when the Pope teaches the doctrinal statement of faith or how to behave morally, the Pope is infallible which means he makes no mistakes.
     The doctrine of infallibility of the Pope is a new doctrine of the Catholic. The Vatican Council which met in 1870 defined the doctrine of infallibility of the Pope. Here is how the Vatican council gives the definition of the infallibility of Pope: "...we teach and define that it is a dogma divinely revealed that the Roman Pontiff, when he speaks ex cathedra, that is, when in discharge of the office of pastor and doctor of all Christians, by virtue of his supreme Apostolic authority, he defines a doctrine regarding faith and morals to be held by the universal Church, by the divine assistance promised him in blessed Peter, is possessed of that infallibility with which the divine Redeemer willed that His Church should be endowed for defending doctrines regarding faith and morals, and that therefore such definitions of the Roman Pontiff are irreformable of themselves, and not from the consent of the Church."
     Things based from Catholic definition of infallibility of the Pope:
     1. The doctrine of infallibility of Pope do not apply to every statement made by the Pope.
The statement only made when the Pope is speaking ex cathedra, that is when the Pope seated in his papal chair, the chair of St., Peter, is claimed infallible and also when the Pope is speaking in his official capacity as the head of the church is infallible.
     2. The infallibility of Pope is claimed when the pronouncement of Pope is intended as binding on the whole church. 
The statements of Pope addressed to particular segments or groups within the church which relates more or less to local conditions is considered infallible.
     3. The infallibility of Pope is claimed when the pronouncements have to do with matters pertaining to faith and morals. Faith is what the church should believe and morals is how the church should behave.
     Do you believe that human being is infallible? Is it possible for a parent to advice something that is not correct? Is it possible for a Pastor to teach something that is not true? Do you believe that any of the Apostle was infallible? Do you believe that Peter who was considered first Pope of the catholic was infallible? What will be the best way every believer should do in order to be sure that the doctrine taught by the Pastor is biblical?
     Each believer must make the Bible as the final authority. The Word of God in infallible. Acts 17:11 “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”  Are you searching the Scriptures daily? ________________ .  
No pope, no priest, no pastor, or any person is infallible. All men are not infallible.
Read Matthew 22:39 to learn what Jesus clearly said that people committed error. Therefore, men are not infallible.
Matthew 22:29 “Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.”
     God is infallible because God is Holy and commits no mistakes but Pope commits makes mistakes as a mere man with a sinful nature. God teaches only what is true but Pope sometimes teaches contrary to the Bible.
God’s Word is infallible without error but not all of the statements of Pope is true and thus his pronouncements is conflict to the Bible, and unreliable.
     Read II Timothy 3:16-17 can you give the infallible guide provided by God to our faith or what to believe and to our morals or how to behave? ____________________________.
II Timothy 3:16-17 “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
     A particular man is only infallible if he wholly agrees with the Word of God and applies it in life. The same is true with a church is only infallible as it fully agrees with the Word of God and practices it.  How can your church and you infallible? How closely you and your church stick to infallible Word of God?
 
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     The Catholic church believes that Catholic church itself is infallible and the Catholic also believes that their church through their bishops and the Pope has the power to create and establish law and has power to change laws. Let us read from their book of Catechism "The Church has power from God to make laws and to change the laws it makes. This right to make laws is exercised by the bishops, the successors of the apostles, and especially by the Pope, who as the successor of the chief of the apostles, Saint Peter, has the right to make laws for the Universal Church" (Baltimore Catechism).

IV - FOCUS TO KNOW WHO IS THE ROCK
     If we trace where all of these Catholic teaching base from, it is clear that all of their doctrinal teachings is based on their understanding of Matthew 16:18
Matthew 16:18 "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."
     Let us focus therefore on who really is the Rock according to the Scriptures.
     There is a great Rock mentioned in I Corinthians 10:4 “And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. “   Would you identify who is this Rock? ______________ .
     There was a head or chief cornerstone referred as a great stone which was rejected according to Jesus in Matthew 21:42
Matthew 21:42 "Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner, this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?"
     This same great stone or cornerstone was mentioned by Peter in Acts 4:10-12.
Acts 4:10-12 “Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.“
Did Peter refer that stone to himself? ____________ Who was that great stone Peter was referring to? ______________
     As we focus to know who is the rock, let us identify who wrote the book of I Peter? ___________________
Read I Peter 2:4-7, and answer the questions:
I Peter 2:4-7 "To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious.5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,”
     Based on verse 4 and 6 who is the stone Peter mentioned, was Peter referred that stone to himself of to Christ? _____
     Based on verse 5, Peter is described the church as the great building composed of all believers that are part of it.
The spiritual house mentioned by Peter here is the church, that is not made with brick or boards or concrete, but the church which is the spiritual house is made with living stones which are the believers in Christ.
     In this great building which is the church, there is a living stone which refers to every believer. Are you a living stone part of this great building? ________________ Do you agree that Peter as a believer was part of this building? ________
     Based on verses 6-7, is the chief stone referring to Peter? ________________________
     Based on I Peter 2:4-7, then check every statement with true or false
(   ) True     (   ) False          The chief stone is Peter                     
(   ) True     (   ) False          The chief stone is Jesus Christ
(   ) True     (   ) False          Every believer is a "living stone" and part of this great building which is the church.
(   ) True     (   ) False          According to Peter he was the most important part of the building which is the church.
(   ) True     (   ) False          Every believer was a living stone and Peter was also living stone.
(   ) True     (   ) False          Peter claimed he was the first pope and the visible head of the church, the successor of Christ.
     Read I Corinthians 3:11 and know the only foundation of the church? _____________________________ .
I Corinthians 3:11 “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. “
The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ our Lord. It is wrong to say “The church’s one foundation is Peter.
The Church is built upon the rock, the solid foundation of Christ and His Word, so the church is not built upon Peter.
     In the Old Testament, God is called the Rock for about 34 times.
     Read Deuteronomy 32:3-4 and identify who is the Rock? _______ .
Deuteronomy 32:3-4 “Because I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. 4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.”
     Read II Samuel 22:2,3,32,47 and would you tell who is the Rock? _______________
II Samuel 22:2,3,32,47 “And he said, The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer. 3 The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from  violence. 32 For who is God, save the Lord? and who is a rock, save our God? The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and exalted be the God of the rock of my salvation. 47 The Lord liveth; and blessed be my rock; and exalted be the God of the rock of my salvation.”
     Read Psalm 78:35 and what is one very important thing that every believer must always remember? _______________
Psalm 78:35 “And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.”
     Read the three Old Testament prophecies in Isaiah 8:14; Isaiah 28:16; Psalm 118:22, and then know who was clearly referred as the Rock and the Chief stone? _____________________.
Isaiah 8:14 “And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.”
Isaiah 28:16 “Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.”    
Psalm 118:22 “The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.”

V - FAMILIARITY OF PETER ABOUT HIMSELF
     The real Peter of the Bible did not know he is considered by Catholic the first Pope.
     Read Luke 5:8 Peter shows that Peter is familiar about himself. How did Peter describe himself? _________________
Luke 5:8 “When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”
     Read Acts 10:25-26 and shows the real Peter of the Bible not the fake Peter of the Catholics. Did Peter accept worship from men and allow people to kneel before him? __________ The real Peter of the Bible forbid anyone to worship him.
Acts 10:25-26 “And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. 26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.”
     In contrast with Peter who is considered by Catholic as the first Pope, the Popes not only accept worship but also demand such homage, that even to the extent that all men which includes the highest cardinals, prostrate themselves on the floor in front of the newly elected or declared pope. During the ordination of the newly elected Pope the highest cardinals’ vows before the Pope and even kiss his foot. Not only the Pope accept worship but also the Pope accept the title of “Holy Father” as theirs as their power and authority. Did Peter accept to be called as “Holy Father” or allowed people to call him by the title “Holy Father”? What a Blasphemy! Catholics understanding of Matthew 16:18, they believe that Peter was chosen to be Pope. Now, to oppose that Catholic belief about Peter as the first Pope, it will be helpful to read some verses that come after Matthew 16:18.
     Read Matthew 16:21-23 “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. 23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.”
     Jesus strongly rebuke Peter and said in verse 23 “Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me” This very strong words of Jesus can be use against the one who had just been appointed pope. Now as you read verse 22, Peter statements was corrected by Jesus in verse 23, so therefore can Peter prove that he was infallible like a pope? ________
     Read Galatians 2:11-14, and we learn that Paul has to give a strong word of rebuke to Peter because Peter had done wrong therefore it was clear that Peter was not infallible or someone who cannot commit mistakes.
Galatians 2:11-14 “But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. 12 For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. 13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. 14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?”
     The Lord used Peter as a great man of God in a wonderful way. In Acts 2, on the day of Pentecost Peter preached a dynamic sermon about the crucified Christ on the multitudes that converted many. Because of Peter evangelistic missionary preaching the door of faith was opened to the Jews (Acts 2), to the Samaritans (Acts 8) and to the Gentiles (Acts 19). We noticed that in the first 12 chapters of the book of Acts, the main and prominent featured character is the Apostle Peter. Although undeniably we consider Peter was a great man of God and a great servant of Christ, but contrary to what the Catholics believed, Peter was not the pope and Peter never become pope and Peter was not infallible. From chapter 13 and on, the last half of the book of Acts, little was written about Peter, because noticeably Paul missionary journey mostly featured. Think, if Peter become the first pope, then his name expectedly mentioned more often. But not.
     Let us go back to Matthew 16, and carefully read Matthew 16:13-17 and see the comparison between Christ and Peter.
Matthew 16:13-17 “When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” Do these verses emphasize who Christ is or who Peter is? ____________________
Do these verses pointing us to the Person of Christ or pointing us to the Person of Peter? _______________
In verse 16, Did Peter confess how great he was? _______What Peter confessed who Christ was? ___________
It is very clear that the emphasis and purpose of these verses is centered on Christ and does not show us the greatness of Peter.
     Read Matthew 16:18 and notice that there are two very similar words that are used.
Matthew 16:18 “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
     Jesus said to Peter, “thou art Peter” which the Greek word is Petros, then Jesus said “and upon this Rock” which the Greek word is Petra. Then Jesus said “I will build my church.” Jesus is plainly saying “Thou art Petros and upon this Petra I will build my church.”
The meaning of the Greek words of Petra and Petros.
     1. Petros
     In defining the Greek word “Petros” by using one word and that means “stone.” (John 1:42 “And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.”). Simon Peter is called Cephas which is interpreted stone. Obviously, a stone is a piece of small rock. So the Greek word “Petros” is referring to a loose stone or a movable stone, in other words it was a detached stone that a person could throw to another person. Although this Greek word “Petros” could refer to a very large stone but often most of the time this word “Petros” is referring to a small, detached, and movable stone. This Greek word “Petros” can be used of a small stone or slings. Petros is used of a little chip or part of a big stone. The Greek word “Petros” was also used as a proper name as that of Peter.
     Read I Peter 2:5 and find out if Peter consider himself to be stone? ____________________ .
I Peter 2:5 “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”
     Is it right to build a church on a loose stone or weak foundation? ____________________________________ .
     Is it wise to build a church on a pebble stone.  Would this small and weak foundation will provide us a foundation,
     2. Petra
     In defining the Greek word “Petra” by using one word that means “Rock.” Matthew 16:18 “and upon this rock I will build my church.” Which is smaller and which is bigger, a rock or a stone? ___________________ . Opposite of Petros which is small stone, the word Petra means a large stone or a big and heavy rock. The Greek word “Petra” often described a fixed and permanent rock or cannot be moved kind of rock. The Greek word “Petra” can give us a description that is big, heavy and immovable rock like a cliff by the sea. Now, going back to Matthew 16:18 “and upon this rock (Petra) I will build my church.” It clearly means that the church is built upon a large, solid, heavy, immovable or permanent Rock. Therefore this foundation is very solid and very secure that according the Matthew 16:18 “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
     Peter clear confession pointed to Jesus and who Jesus was when he said in Matthew 16:16 “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Peter clearly confessed the Rock foundation upon which the church, the body of Christ would be built. Catholic believed that the foundation of the church is built upon Peter (Petros, small stone), while Peter clearly confessed that the true church is built by Christ on solid, large, immovable Rock (Petra) which is Christ himself. Christ was the builder (“I will build”) and Christ was the owner for it His church (“my church’). Christ the Rock (Petra) not Peter the stone (Petros) was the foundation of the church (I Corinthians 3:11 “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”).
     The church is built upon someone (Christ) more solid than Peter.
     Christ is the Head of the church (His body) and not someone who is visible, fallible and sinful man.
     Church is built by God upon God (Christ, the Son of the Living God) and not by man (Peter) and upon man (Pope succession, and human founder of different religious groups).
     It is very dangerous thing that religious people look to their human founder, human leaders, and human heads. Why? Because men can let us down, can disappoint us, can make mistakes, can make wrong decisions (Jeremiah 17:5 “Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.”
     If the Pastor, Priest, Pope or any religious leader and founder were the Head of the church, this would cause great problems and troubles because the head is just a mere man.
     The church must be led and headed by God not led and headed by a man.
     Whose church is your church? _________________ (Matthew 16:18 “I will build my church;”)
     Whom the church should obey? ____________ (Acts 4:19 “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.”; Acts 5:29 “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.”) Not the Pope, not some religious founder.
     Whom the church should follow? ________________ Men or God?
     We could follow men only if they are following Christ (I Corinthians 11:1 “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”)

VII – FOUNDATION THAT IS SAFE AND SOLID
     Your feet must stand on the solid ground. You must stand on a safe and solid foundation.
For you to build your life upon the rock, what must you do? (Matthew 7:24-27 “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: 25 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. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.”). The Build your life upon the rock, do not just literally listened, remember, memorize, read the Word of God, but you must apply and practice the Word of God to your life as God says.
     If you are life is built upon the solid rock foundation, do not move, just stay on the solid rock because all other ground is sinking sand. (I Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 
     Be faithful into the Word of God and abide in God's Word.

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