The Confession Of Peter And The Configuration

Within Matthew’s account, one observes the gradual evolution of Peter. He is no longer merely a servant of Jesus, but an empowered leader that was privy to see his glorified body. Peter is not an equal to Jesus, but one that is invited to partake in the work of ministry set by the Jesus movement. The relationship between Peter and Jesus is the embodiment of the human and divine encounter. The Confession of Peter and the Transfiguration stand as symbols for the evolution of faith within the spiritual experience. Thus, the progression of Peter represents the larger evolution of the human spirit after its been encountered by the Divine (Jesus). In this narrative, the “character” of Peter represents not only the Apostle, but the Christian community and the broader world. Peter

Jesus elevates Peter and renames him the “Rock.” In this act, he invites Peter to engage with him in the mission of redemption. This invitation acts as the symbol in which G-d invites all of humanity to engage in the divine work of salvation. In naming Peter, the “Rock,” he [Jesus] initiates the creation a collaborative space where humanity shares in the likeness of Divine—actively participating in the work of our own redemption. In naming Peter, the cornerstone of the Church, he is making humanity a pillar in the Divine kingdom that upholds this unified vision of creation. However, when Jesus instructs Peter not to reveal his identity as Messiah in this event, it is a sign of divine dominance. Peter has engaged in the work of Jesus, but has no claim to partake in it as equals. Peter is still subject the law and whims of G-d in the person of Jesus. Hence, humanity is subject to the highest law of the Divine. Ultimately, the message of Peter’s Confessions for the contemporary Church is one of obedience and engagement. Humanity has been invited to partake in the work of the Divine, but are still subject to the