Isaiah 22 and Peter's Primacy

SUMMARY

In this reflection, Tim connects the 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time readings to the Catholic understanding of the papacy. He begins with Isaiah 22 and the office of the master of the palace, showing how Eliakim receives authority, a fatherly role, and the power to open and shut. From there, he turns to Matthew 16, where Jesus gives Peter the keys of the kingdom and identifies him as the rock on which the Church will be built. Tim also addresses common Protestant objections about Petros and about whether Peter's authority could have successors. The reflection closes by pointing to apostolic succession, the replacement of Judas, and the continuing office of bishop in the life of the Church.