The Papacy (Peter's Primacy)

"Where in the Bible does it say Peter was the first Pope?"

3 Scripture passages2 objections answered2 Church Father quotes

The Short Answer

Catholics believe Jesus established Peter as chief apostle and visible head of His Church. This office continues through Peter's successors, the Bishops of Rome. The Pope serves as Christ's Vicar, ensuring unity and guarding the faith.

Quick Overview

Think of a company—someone needs final say to keep everything unified. Jesus organized His Church with apostles and gave Peter special authority (the 'keys') to keep it unified. Peter's successors (Popes) continue this role. It's about Jesus' design for keeping His Church one.

Biblical Evidence

What the Scriptures say

Matthew 16:18-19

"Thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church... I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven."

Why This Matters

Jesus renames Simon 'Kepha' (Rock), then builds His church on this rock. The 'keys' represent prime ministerial authority (see Isaiah 22:22).

Luke 22:31-32

"I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and thou, being once converted, confirm thy brethren."

Why This Matters

Jesus prays specifically for Peter and gives him the task of 'confirming' the other apostles—a special leadership role.

John 21:15-17

"Feed my lambs... Feed my sheep."

Why This Matters

Three times Jesus commands Peter to 'feed' His sheep. Christ is the Good Shepherd; Peter is appointed under-shepherd of the whole flock.

What the Church Teaches

Official Catholic doctrine

The Pope is Bishop of Rome, successor of St. Peter, and Vicar of Jesus Christ. He has full, supreme, and universal power over the whole Church (CCC 882). Papal infallibility protects official teachings on faith and morals (CCC 891).

Common Objections

Questions answered

Early Church Fathers

What the first Christians believed

St. Irenaeus of Lyon

c. 180 AD

"With this church [Rome], because of its superior origin, all churches must agree."

— Against Heresies, 3:3:2

St. Cyprian of Carthage

c. 251 AD

"There is one God and one Christ, and one Church, and one chair founded on Peter by the word of the Lord."

— Letter 43:5

Confession

Praying to Saints

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