Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The name "Bar-Jonah" is a patronymic term found in the New Testament, specifically associated with the Apostle Peter. It is a combination of the Aramaic word "Bar," meaning "son of," and "Jonah," which is a personal name. Thus, "Bar-Jonah" translates to "son of Jonah." Biblical References: The primary reference to Bar-Jonah is found in the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 16:17 , Jesus addresses Peter as "Simon Bar-Jonah": "Jesus replied, 'Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in heaven.'" This passage highlights the divine revelation given to Peter regarding Jesus' identity as the Messiah. Context and Significance: The use of "Bar-Jonah" in this context is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it emphasizes Peter's human lineage, grounding him in his earthly family while simultaneously highlighting the divine revelation he received. This duality underscores the theme of God's work through ordinary individuals. Secondly, the name "Jonah" itself carries symbolic weight. Jonah, a prophet from the Old Testament, is known for his initial reluctance to follow God's command and his subsequent mission to the city of Nineveh. Some scholars suggest that the mention of "Jonah" in Peter's patronymic could allude to themes of repentance, mission, and divine calling, which are also evident in Peter's life and ministry. Peter's Role and Transformation: Simon Peter, originally a fisherman by trade, was called by Jesus to become a "fisher of men" (Matthew 4:19). His journey from Simon Bar-Jonah to Peter, the rock upon which Jesus would build His church (Matthew 16:18), marks a significant transformation. This transformation is not only personal but also foundational for the early Christian church. Peter's acknowledgment as "Bar-Jonah" at the moment of his confession of Christ's divine nature serves as a pivotal point in the Gospel narrative. It marks the transition from his identity as a son of Jonah to his role as a leader among the apostles, entrusted with the keys of the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 16:19). Theological Implications: The reference to Bar-Jonah in the New Testament carries theological implications regarding the nature of revelation and the role of the apostles. It underscores the belief that true understanding of Jesus' identity and mission comes not from human wisdom but from divine revelation. This revelation is foundational to the apostolic witness and the establishment of the church. Furthermore, the transformation of Simon Bar-Jonah into Peter reflects the transformative power of Christ's call and the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. It serves as an example of how God can use individuals, regardless of their background, to fulfill His purposes. Conclusion: While the name "Bar-Jonah" appears only once in the New Testament, its implications are profound. It connects Peter to his earthly heritage while highlighting the divine revelation that set him apart as a leader in the early church. Through this name, the narrative of Peter's life and ministry is enriched, offering insights into the nature of discipleship, revelation, and the transformative power of God's call. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BAR-JONAHbar-jo'-na (Bar-ionas): Simon Peter's patronymic (Matthew 16:17). Bar is Aramaic for "son" (compare Bar-timaeus, Bartholomew, etc.), and corresponds to Hebrew ben. Thus we are to understand that Peter's father's name was Jonah. But in John 1:42; John 21:15-17, according to the best reading, his name is given as John (so the Revised Version (British and American), instead of the King James Version Jona, Jonas). There are two hypotheses to account for this difference: Greek 920. Barionas -- "son of Jonah," Bar-Jonah, a surname of Peter ... 919, 920. Barionas. 921 . "son of Jonah," Bar-Jonah, a surname of Peter. Part of Speech: Proper Noun, Indeclinable Transliteration: Barionas Phonetic Spelling ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/920.htm - 6k Library The Confession of the Blessed Peter Receives a Testimony to Its ... Third Withdrawal from Herod's Territory. Peter's Confession. The Apocalypse of John. Self-Denial. The Friend of Men 223 in Nothing Does the Contrast Between Jesus ... Thesaurus Barjonah... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BAR-JONAH. bar-jo'-na (Bar-ionas): Simon Peter's patronymic (Matthew 16:17). Bar is Aramaic for ... /b/barjonah.htm - 7k Bar-jonah (1 Occurrence) Bar-jona (1 Occurrence) Bar (27 Occurrences) Bark (4 Occurrences) Jonas (11 Occurrences) Reveal (29 Occurrences) Revealed (129 Occurrences) Mere (56 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about sons? | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophets are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What are the keys of the kingdom? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bar-jonah (1 Occurrence)Matthew 16:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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