Was Peter the first pope?

WAS PETER THE first Pope...?

Question: "Mr. Barber, in recent weeks I have heard and read much about Peter being the first pope.  But I have been reading my Bible and I cannot find any reference to Peter being a pope.  Can you help?"

Answer:

You have already read everything the Bible says about Peter being the pope -- nothing!

The words pope and papacy are not found in the Bible.  The idea of this office originated much later than the first century after Christ.  Therefore, Christ's church which is described in the Bible had no one in this position.

Peter was an apostle (Matthew 10:2) and preacher (Acts 2 - 5), but he never claimed or received superior authority over the apostles.

Peter, according to today's qualifications, could not have been the pope.  He was married (Matthew 8:14).  He was rebuked by Paul "because he was to be blamed" (Galatians 2:11).  This shows he certainly was not infallible.  When people fell down at his feet to worship him, he said, "Stand up; I myself also am a man" (Acts 10:26).

Jesus is the foundation of His church (1 Corinthians 3:11).  Jesus is the head of the church (Colossians 1:18).  No normal body has two heads.

The scriptures, which are inspired of God, give us instruction in righteousness and completely furnish us to all good works (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).  Since the office of pope and the appointment of popes is not mentioned in the Bible, who started the idea -- God or man?  (Jerrie Barber)

"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."  Colossians 3:17

--Mike Benson

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