Who was Peter in the Bible?

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

Published by Bible Direct Answers · Licensed under Citation License 1.0

Peter appears throughout the four Gospels and the early chapters of Acts. Two New Testament epistles — 1 Peter and 2 Peter — are traditionally attributed to him.

Traditional attribution: The epistles 1 Peter and 2 Peter are traditionally attributed to Peter (Wikidata Q33923).

Key passages:

"And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." — Matthew 4:19

"And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." — Matthew 16:16

"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." — Matthew 16:18

"He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep." — John 21:17

Read more in Matthew, Acts, 1 Peter, and 2 Peter.

Also asked as

  • · Simon Peter
  • · Apostle Peter
charactersnew-testamentpeter