### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Pétros**, represented by `{{G4074}}`, is defined as **a (piece of) rock**. It appears **162 times** across **157 unique verses** and is famously used as the name given by Jesus to the apostle Simon. This name signifies a foundational role and identifies one of the most prominent figures in the Gospels and the book of Acts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4074}}` is central to Simon's identity after his calling. Jesus renames him in [[John 1:42]], stating, "thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone `{{G4074}}`." This new identity is solidified after his profound confession of faith, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" [[Matthew 16:16]]. In response, Jesus declares, "thou art **Peter**, and upon this rock I will build my church" [[Matthew 16:18]]. Peter is consistently portrayed as a leader and spokesman for the apostles, whether preaching on the day of Pentecost [[Acts 2:38]] or answering before the authorities [[Acts 5:29]]. However, his story also includes moments of human weakness, such as Jesus's sharp rebuke, "Get thee behind me, Satan" [[Matthew 16:23]], and Paul withstanding him "to the face, because he was to be blamed" [[Galatians 2:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the identity and role of **Peter**:
* `{{G4073}}` **pétra** (a (mass of) rock): This word is used by Jesus in direct connection with Peter's name, highlighting the foundation upon which the church would be built [[Matthew 16:18]].
* `{{G2786}}` **Kēphâs** (the Rock): This is the Aramaic equivalent of **Pétros**, given to Simon by Jesus at their first meeting, establishing his new identity from the outset [[John 1:42]].
* `{{G4613}}` **Símōn** (Simon): This was Peter's original name before Jesus renamed him. It is often used in conjunction with his apostolic name, as in "Simon **Peter**" ([[Matthew 16:16]], [[John 6:68]]).
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (apostle): This title defines Peter's official role as a commissioner of Christ. He identifies himself as an **apostle** of Jesus Christ at the beginning of his letters ([[1 Peter 1:1]], [[2 Peter 1:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4074}}` is demonstrated through Peter's life and ministry.
* **Foundational Confession:** The name **Peter** is inextricably linked to the foundational confession that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. This confession is the rock upon which the church is established ([[Matthew 16:16]], [[Matthew 16:18]]).
* **Apostolic Leadership:** Peter is consistently listed first among the **twelve** apostles ([[Matthew 10:2]], [[Acts 1:13]]), signifying his role as a leading figure in the early church `{{G1577}}`.
* **Human Frailty and Divine Restoration:** Peter's journey exemplifies the dynamic between human weakness and divine grace. Despite denying Christ three times [[Matthew 26:75]], he was publicly restored and commissioned by Jesus to "Feed my sheep" [[John 21:17]].
* **Apostleship to the Circumcision:** His primary mission was recognized as the apostleship `{{G651}}` to the circumcision `{{G4061}}` [[Galatians 2:8]], yet God also chose him to be the one through whom the Gentiles `{{G1484}}` would first hear the word of the gospel `{{G2098}}` [[Acts 15:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4074}}` **Pétros** is far more than a simple name. It is a title conferred by Christ that denotes a foundational, rock-like role in the establishment of the church. The life of the man who bore this name, Simon Peter, illustrates bold leadership, crucial confession, profound failure, and powerful restoration, making him a central figure in the New Testament narrative and a key example of apostolic ministry.
TRV