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

Oneness Pentecostals (UPCI)

Oneness Pentecostals (UPCI)

Non-Trinitarian

Nuanced

Peter's role affirmed; emphasis on pneumatic leadership via Holy Ghost

Oneness Pentecostal churches affirm Peter's foundational role in Matthew 16:18 but place primary emphasis on the ongoing leadership of the Holy Ghost through apostles and prophets. The building of the church is a Spirit-directed process.

Oneness interpretation maintains apostolic foundations but emphasizes that the Spirit's ongoing revelation and guidance through apostles is more important than institutional hierarchy. The rock is foundational but understood in light of continuous Spirit empowerment.

Key Distinctions

Rock referent:
Peter role:
foundational but not institutional
Papal primacy:

Scripture References

Sources

  • Oneness Pentecostal theology
  • UPCI Manual and Doctrinal Position