Subject: Follow up Peter first Pope |
Bible Note: Mark 16:7 states, "But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see Him, just as He told you.’" (NAS95) In no way is this insinuating that Peter will carry on the office of Jesus! This is simply showing Jesus' special concern for Peter, in view of his confident boasting and subsequent denials (Mark 14:29-31,66-72). "Chosen by God as the first human witnesses to Christ’s resurrection, these women were commanded to go and tell. The special mention of Peter signifies that Christ still accepted him, even though he had denied the Lord three times." (Nelson's Study Bible) "16:7 The Lord was especially concerned about Peter, who had denied Him." (Ryrie's Study Bible) In no way does Mark 16:7 support your belief that Peter was the first pope. It is a shame that the Apostle John did not remain alive until today since he would expose this fallacy as well! :) And you still haven't answered my question: If Peter was the first pope (Mark 16:7), then why weren't any other popes Jewish in decent? Why didn't any of the succeeding popes assume the leadership of the church of Jerusalem? If Linus was indeed the direct successor to Peter, then why does only one verse out of the whole Bible mention his name? (2 Tim. 4:21) And even this verse does not ascribe any "special" importance to Linus, except that he is a 'brother'.. --Nolan |