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How does Roman Catholic tradition connect Saint Peter to the papacy?
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papacy
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City.
In Roman Catholic tradition, the connection between Saint Peter and the papacy is defined by the Petrine theory. This theological principle asserts that Jesus Christ designated Peter as his representative on Earth and the leader of the church, establishing a primacy of jurisdiction that is passed down to his successors as the bishops of Rome.123
This doctrine is primarily grounded in biblical passages where Jesus confers unique authority upon Peter:
- The Rock: In Matthew 16:18, Jesus says, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church," which the Church interprets as establishing Peter as the visible head of the church.13
- The Keys: Jesus grants Peter the "keys of the kingdom of heaven" and the power to bind and loose on earth and in heaven (Matthew 16:19).413
- The Shepherd: In John 21:15β16, Jesus instructs Peter to "feed my lambs" and "tend my sheep," signifying his role as leader.3
Through apostolic succession, the Church maintains that this Petrine office continues in perpetuity through the line of Roman pontiffs.23