The word Kēphâs, represented by G2786, is a surname for Peter meaning the Rock. Of Chaldee origin, it appears 6 times in 6 unique verses. This name was bestowed upon the apostle by Jesus and is used by other New Testament writers to refer to him.
The name Kēphâs is introduced in a pivotal moment when Jesus first meets Simon, the son of Jona. Jesus renames him, stating, "thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone" John 1:42. In his epistles, Paul refers to Cephas to denote Peter's significant standing within the early church. He is listed as a leader to whom some in the Corinthian church claimed allegiance 1 Corinthians 1:12 and is mentioned as one who saw the resurrected Christ 1 Corinthians 15:5. Alongside James and John, Cephas was perceived to be a pillar in the Jerusalem church Galatians 2:9.
Several related words help clarify the identity and role of G2786:
- G4074 Pétros: meaning "a (piece of) rock," this is the Greek equivalent of Cephas and the name Peter. John 1:42 explicitly connects the two names, with the interpretation of Cephas being a "stone" G4074.
- G4613 Símōn: Peter's original given name. He is identified as "Simon the son of Jona" at the moment he is renamed Cephas John 1:42.
- G2495 Iōnâs: the name of Peter's father. Jesus identifies Simon by his parentage, "son of Jona," before giving him his new name John 1:42.
- G4769 stŷlos: meaning "a post ('style'), i.e. (figuratively) support:--pillar." This term is used to describe the role of Cephas, along with James and John, in the early church community Galatians 2:9.
The theological weight of G2786 is centered on the identity and mission given to Peter by Christ.
- A New Identity and Purpose: The act of renaming Simon to Cephas signifies a new identity conferred directly by Jesus, defining his future role as "the Rock" John 1:42.
- Foundational Leadership: The description of Cephas as a pillar G4769 highlights his role as a foundational support for the early church, recognized by other apostles like Paul Galatians 2:9.
- Primary Apostolic Witness: The mention that the resurrected Christ "was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve" 1 Corinthians 15:5 establishes his primacy as a witness to the cornerstone event of the Christian faith.
In summary, G2786 is far more than an alternative name for Peter. It is a title of distinction bestowed by Jesus himself. The name Kēphâs defines his foundational significance, his position as a primary apostolic witness, and his role as a pillar of the early church. Its use in scripture consistently points to the unique authority and leadership position he held among the apostles.
TRV