Matthew 16:18 — "Upon This Rock"

Whether 'this rock' in Jesus's declaration to Peter refers to Peter himself, to Peter's confession of faith, or to Christ, and the implications for church authority and papal primacy.

Overall consensus76/100

Christian & Missionary Alliance

Christian & Missionary Alliance

Evangelical

Nuanced

Rock = Peter's confession of faith; church built on Jesus as foundation

The C&MA interprets Matthew 16:18 with a nuanced reading. While the Greek pun is noted, the C&MA does not elevate Peter to papal authority. Instead, Jesus' promise refers to Peter's confession as the foundation principle: the church is built upon Christ as revealed in apostolic confession.

Key Distinctions

Rock referent:
Christ is sole foundation
Peter role:
instrumental
Papal primacy:

Scripture References

Sources

  • C&MA Statement of Faith