The Church of the Brethren interprets Matthew 16:18 as affirming that Christ is the foundation of the Church, with Peter's confession of faith being the response that leads to his calling. The Brethren do not see this passage as establishing papal authority or apostolic succession; rather, it affirms the Church's foundation in Christ and the responsibility of believers to confess and follow him.

The Brethren emphasis on congregational discernment and shared leadership means that no single person or office holds supreme authority. The Church is understood as the gathered community of believers who confess Christ and commit to discipleship. Peter's binding and loosing authority (Matthew 16:19) is understood communally — the authority belongs to the Church gathered in Christ's name, not to a hierarchical office.