Nuanced
Jesus' statement acknowledges church foundation without papal primacy claim
Congregationalist exegesis of Matthew 16:18 affirms that Jesus makes a statement about the church's foundation, but denies that this passage establishes papal primacy or apostolic succession. The word 'rock' (petros) is understood as referring to Peter's faith or confession rather than to an institutional office. Congregationalist polity emphasizes local congregational autonomy and does not recognize a hierarchical church governance flowing from Peter. The passage is understood within broader New Testament ecclesiology that emphasizes the body of Christ as the whole church, not a monarchical structure centered on one bishop.
Key Distinctions
- Rock referent:
- Peter's faith/confession, not an office
- Peter role:
- Papal primacy:
- rejected; congregational polity affirmed
Scripture References
Sources
- Westminster Confession of Faith
- Congregationalist ecclesiology