Who is Peter in the Bible?

Study the books of 1 & 2 Peter in the Bible when you use this printable outline to discover historical events, timelines and themes.

The Books of 1 & 2 Peter

During Jesus’ life on earth, he chose 12 apostles, one of whom was named Simon. Jesus renames this fisherman, Peter, who goes onto become a leader of the newly formed Christian church after Jesus’ death and resurrection.

You may also see Peter called by the name Cephas (Peter in Aramaic, meaning Rock).

There are three stories in the Bible that display Peter’s humanness and lack of faith even while being one of Jesus’ closest friends:

Jesus calls him out to walk on water (Peter sinks because he is scared)
Peter cuts off a Roman soldier’s ear when he arrests Jesus (Jesus tells him not to fight)
Peter denies Jesus three times to avoid being crucified alongside him

However, after all is said and done, he deeply regrets his choices and pursues spreading Jesus’ gospel eventually to the point of death. It is said that Peter was martyred by crucifixion upside-down in Rome.

Peter is our example of imperfect faith, and reminder that Jesus in his grace and mercy forgives us in our weakness. Peter’s life is also a testimony that following Jesus is hard work, and if it’s easy, we may not be doing it right.

The books of 1 & 2 Peter are written by this very same apostle 30 years after Jesus’ life and is written to exiled and persecuted Christians to give them hope in suffering. His second letter was to address false teachers (as Paul also did in his letters).

Here are a few of my favorite verses from Peter:

”Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade—-kept in heaven for you.” 1 Peter 1:3-4

“Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” 1 Peter 3:8-9

”In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15

”Do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:12-13

”Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 4:6-7

”Make every effort to add to your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.” 2 Peter 1:5-7

”The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

Printables for the Bible Books of 1 & 2 Peter

Want to know more about the break down of each of these books? Check out my timelines and work your way to deeper spiritual understanding of God’s relationship with us as his children. You can order the books of 1 & 2 Peter here:

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So a few years ago, I made this Old and New Testament Summary Printable, and now I’ve worked my way through each book of the Bible! To get the rest of the printables, check out my Timeline Bundles for the best deal:

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