Definition

Noun 1. Apostle and First Pope: Saint Peter the Apostle was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ and a leader among the Apostles. In Catholic tradition, he is regarded as the first Bishop of Rome (Pope), holding a position of supreme authority as the Vicar of Christ on Earth.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • According to the Gospels, Saint Peter the Apostle was a fisherman before being called by Jesus.
  • The basilica is dedicated to Saint Peter the Apostle, whose tomb is believed to be beneath the altar.
  • Catholic doctrine teaches that Saint Peter the Apostle was given the "keys to the kingdom of heaven."

Advanced Usage

• "The See of Saint Peter": This phrase refers to the office or authority of the Papacy, tracing its origin back to Saint Peter the Apostle as the first Pope.
  • The bishop was appointed directly by the See of Saint Peter.

Variants and Related Words

• Saint Peter (n): A common shortened form of the name.
  • The Feast of Saint Peter is celebrated in June.
• Simon Peter (n): His original name, Simon, given before Jesus called him Peter (which means "rock").
  • Jesus said, "You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas" (which, when translated, is Peter).
• The Prince of the Apostles (n): A traditional title emphasizing his leadership role among the twelve Apostles.
• Petrine (adj): Relating to Saint Peter the Apostle or his teachings and authority.
  • The doctrine of Petrine succession is central to the Catholic Church.

Synonyms

• Peter (n): The primary name used in the New Testament.
• The Apostle Peter (n): Emphasizes his role as one of the twelve Apostles.
• Cephas (n): The Aramaic version of the name Peter, meaning "rock."

Related Phrases

• "Upon this rock I will build my church": A key phrase from the Gospel of Matthew (16:18), where Jesus addresses Peter, forming the biblical basis for the Catholic understanding of Peter's foundational role.
• "The keys of the kingdom": A symbolic reference to authority, given to Peter according to the Gospel of Matthew (16:19).

Noun

1. disciple of Jesus and leader of the Apostles; regarded by Catholics as the vicar of Christ on earth and first Pope