The Basic Argument. A common claim in Protestant apologetics is that in Matthew 16:18, Jesus is actually contrasting St. Peter with the rock on which he will build his Church.

“You are Petros (Peter) and upon this Petra (rock) I will build my Church.” Matt. 16:18 Catholics say: “See, Jesus built his church on Peter, the first Catholic Pope in Rome.” ...

He recognizes that God the Father has given Simon a ‘dependable’ faith, upon which he, Jesus, can build his Church, that is, his community; that is, all of us. All of us.” ...

"I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it." Matthew 16:18 Too often when we hear the word "church" we think of ...

Jesus built on the faith of Peter, who had denied him three times, and he would build with the faith of Paul, who had persecuted the church of God. Indeed, Paul continued the work of the Twelve ...

Jesus praises Peter for speaking out and makes important promises concerning Peter and the Church. He says, “you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church".