Topical Encyclopedia The Defense of Peter refers to the various instances in the New Testament where the Apostle Peter is defended or defends himself against accusations or misunderstandings regarding his actions and teachings. As one of the leading figures in the early Christian Church, Peter's role and decisions were often scrutinized, necessitating explanations and defenses to maintain unity and doctrinal purity within the burgeoning Christian community.Peter's Defense at Pentecost One of the most notable defenses occurs during the event of Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2. After the Holy Spirit descends upon the apostles, they begin speaking in various tongues, leading some onlookers to accuse them of being drunk. Peter stands up with the Eleven and delivers a powerful sermon, defending the apostles by explaining that it is only the third hour of the day and that what is occurring is the fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel. He declares, "These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It is only the third hour of the day!" (Acts 2:15). Peter's defense not only clarifies the situation but also serves as a proclamation of the gospel, resulting in the conversion of about three thousand souls. Defense Before the Sanhedrin Peter also defends his faith and actions before the Jewish authorities. In Acts 4, after healing a lame man, Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin. When questioned by what power or name they performed the miracle, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly declares, "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being examined today about a kind service to a man who was lame, to determine how he was healed, then let this be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed" (Acts 4:8-10). Peter's defense emphasizes the authority and power of Jesus Christ, affirming the apostolic witness and the divine origin of their mission. Defense of Gentile Inclusion Another significant defense by Peter is regarding the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith. In Acts 10, Peter receives a vision from God, leading him to the house of Cornelius, a Gentile centurion. After witnessing the Holy Spirit descend upon Cornelius and his household, Peter baptizes them, recognizing that God shows no favoritism. When criticized by the circumcised believers in Jerusalem for associating with Gentiles, Peter recounts his vision and the subsequent outpouring of the Holy Spirit, concluding, "If then God gave them the same gift He gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to hinder the work of God?" (Acts 11:17). His defense underscores the universality of the gospel and God's sovereign will in extending salvation to all people. Defense in Galatians In Galatians 2, the Apostle Paul recounts an incident in Antioch where he confronts Peter for withdrawing from eating with Gentile believers due to pressure from certain Jewish Christians. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle within the early Church regarding Jewish customs and Gentile converts. While Paul criticizes Peter's actions, it is evident that Peter's previous defenses and actions had already laid a foundation for the acceptance of Gentiles, demonstrating his commitment to the truth of the gospel despite occasional lapses. Peter's Epistles Peter's own writings also serve as a defense of the faith and his apostolic authority. In his epistles, Peter addresses various challenges facing the early Church, including persecution, false teachings, and moral conduct. He exhorts believers to "always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15), reflecting his own experiences of defending the faith and encouraging others to do likewise with gentleness and respect. Throughout the New Testament, the Defense of Peter illustrates the challenges and responsibilities of apostolic leadership, the necessity of standing firm in the truth, and the importance of articulating and defending the core tenets of the Christian faith. Nave's Topical Index Acts 4:8-13Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said to them, You rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, Nave's Topical Index Acts 5:23-29 Library The Second General Epistle of Peter Peter's Denial. Ch. 22:54-62 67689:67697 the Rebuke of Peter Peter, Having Returned from Rome, Regains the Churches of Egypt ... At the Temple Gate Petilianus Said: "Here You have the Fullest Possible Proof that a ... Lii. Concerning Hypocrisy, Worldly Anxiety, Watchfulness, and his ... Acts XII From the Ascension to the Church at Antioch. Seventh Appearance of Jesus. Resources What does the Bible say about self-defense? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Plantinga's free will defense, and how does it address the problem of evil? | GotQuestions.org What is the principle of double effect? | GotQuestions.org Defense: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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