Matthew 15–17; Mark 7–9

April 10, 2023 to April 16, 2023

In Matthew 15–17 and Mark 7–9, Jesus performs miracles, gives keys to Peter, and is transfigured before his apostles. 

 

“Peter, Stones, and Seers,” Shon D. Hopkin, The Ministry of Peter, the Chief Apostle, BYU Religious Studies Center 

The account of Peter’s testimony of Jesus as the Messiah is found in Matthew 16. This article discusses the meaning of “rock,” “church,” “keys,” “gates of hell,” and Peter as a seer or a stone. 

“Peter’s Keys (Matthew 16:18–19),” S. Kent Brown, BYU New Testament Commentary

The keys promised to Peter bear links to the gates of hell, to the next world, and to a greater knowledge of God. When Jesus promises to entrust keys to Peter, part of the promise is that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it [the church].” This short article is excerpted from “Peter’s Keys,” S. Kent Brown, The Ministry of Peter, the Chief Apostle, BYU Religious Studies Center. 

“‘Whom Say Ye That I Am?’: Peter’s Witness of Christ,” Terry B. Ball, The Ministry of Peter, the Chief Apostle, BYU Religious Studies Center 

Peter’s testimony was acquired through varied experiences, including the receiving of keys and witnessing the transfiguration of Jesus. Peter received personal counsel and direction from Jesus. 

“Keys of the Priesthood,” Alan K. Parrish, Encyclopedia of Mormonism

“The keys of the priesthood refer to the right to exercise power in the name of Jesus Christ.” Jesus Christ holds all the keys of the priesthood. While on earth, Christ promised the keys of the kingdom to Peter. These keys are “necessary to maintain order and to see that the functions of the Church are performed in the proper time, place, and manner.”

Matthew 16-17, Mark 9, Come, Follow Me Interfaith Conversations with Robert Millet, Widtsoe Foundation 

Watch or hear Robert Millet discuss these chapters with guest Peter Huff of Benedictine University. Video here or audio here.