Saint Peter: Upon This Rock, a Biography

By: Raymond F. Collins

Narrated by: Raymond F. Collins

Join one of the world's leading New Testament scholars in exploring the life of Peter, the rock of the Church.

An apostle, preacher, bishop, and martyr, Peter is one of the most important figures in early Christianity. Indeed, Catholics believe that the pope is the successor to St. Peter. Now, in this fascinating course, you will explore the powerful portraits of Peter found in the New Testament. Seven different authors depict the apostle: Paul, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the anonymous authors of 1 and 2 Peter. Under the guidance of award-winning New Testament scholar Fr. Raymond F. Collins, you will compare these diverse portrayals.

You will discover that each of these authors had a unique image, vision, and understanding of who Peter was. As you approach their texts, you will explore such questions as: Why did Jesus choose Peter as the rock upon which he built the church? Why does Paul refer to him as “Cephas”? And what role did he play in early Christianity? In Paul, you will gain an intimate portrait of Peter, and you will explore the complexities of his character in the rest of the Gospels and Luke-Acts. Finally, you will explore the epistles 1 and 2 Peter.

Brilliantly taught, these nine lectures will show you how a humble fisherman became one of Christianity’s greatest heroes.

This course is part of the Learn25 collection and includes a free PDF study guide.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2016 Now You Know Media Inc. (P)2016 Now You Know Media Inc.

Critic reviews

“Fr. Ray Collins is one of the finest New Testament scholars in the English-speaking world.... Fr. Collins uses an easy and understandable style." (Fr. John Ludwig)

“Father Collins’ superb scholarship shines through his accessible, lively and engaging lectures. As a parish director of adult education, I find them extremely helpful. They bring to life the New Testament writings in the context of the early Christian communities, allowing the viewer to better appreciate the relevance of these writings for today.” (Fátima Lee, PhD, Lay Pastoral Associate)

“Not only a world class New Testament scholar and a prolific author of over fifteen books and three hundred articles, Fr. Raymond F. Collins is also a dynamic educator who makes complex ideas interesting and accessible to the non-expert. For good reason, he has been invited to conduct seminars, workshops and retreats around the world. If you are interested in solid, sound and erudite Biblical interpretation, look no further.” (Edward Sirois, chair, religious studies, La Salle Academy)

Excellent review of the Apostle Peter

The series of lectures does not glorify nor disparage the Apostle Peter. In fact it’s a great literary character review in a sense, looking at each gospel and the authors perspective and then their references to Simon Peter. It helped me relate to St Peter in such a real way, personally identifying with his zeal for the Lord Jesus Christ, but also his human failings. And yet Jesus clearly accepted, loved and redeemed Simon Peter. Excellent series I would listen to again.

Informative and enjoyable

Fr. Collins knows his stuff, and presents the material in an easy to follow manner that is warm and enjoyable.