Bonus: The Synoptic Problem

Bonus: Can a Human Minister Forgive Sin?

Peter is given the keys to the kingdom and the power to bind and loose, that is, to forgive and not forgive sins. Explores the power of absolution from sin and the need for repentance or penitence. Concludes that human minister forgiving sin consists of announcing God’s forgiveness based on Christ's promises to the penitent, but that only God actually forgives sin.

Bonus: The Legend of Peter's Upside-Down Crucifixion

Explores accounts of Peter being crucified upside down. Concludes that while Peter was clearly crucified, only later sources claim him his head-down crucifixion, so the story is probably apocryphal.

Bonus: Primacy of Peter vs. Papal Primacy

Traces leadership from elders in the early church to a monarchial episcopacy. Examines the terms “father,” “pope,” and “pontiff.” Differentiates between the primacy of Peter which is clear in Matthew 16, and the primacy of the Roman bishop or Pope which evolved gradually over time.

Bonus: The Synoptic Problem

Reviews the Synoptic Problem of common sources for Matthew, Mark, and Luke, and the interrelationships between these three Gospels.

Bonus: Chronology of Peter's Life

Explores approximate dates for the main events in Peter’s life and in the early church.