Hi Chris,

I read your article with great interest. I too believe that "the rock" in Matt 16:18 refers to the truth contained in Peter's testimony. In fact, I've written about it on this site (https://housechurch.org/cmts-view/12d797z?sys=bx_forum&cmt_id=267) and elsewhere. Rather than repeat myself, let me just say that I think that the key point when interpreting that passage is to place the focus on Jesus and not Peter. After all, as you point out, the passage starts with Jesus asking "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" and narrowing the question later to "But who do you say that I am?". That entire passage is all about the Christ (cf Colossians 1:15-20), so to then believe that Jesus is turning Peter into a pope or creating the office of elder seems pretty nonsensical.

Since this appears to be your first post to this site, please let me be the first to welcome you and to encourage you to participate as the Lord leads you.