As the summer passed, ministry moved from place to place. At Caesarea Philippi, Jesus questioned the disciples about what the public had to say of his ministry. When asked their views, Peter responded with his affirmation that Jesus was not only the Messiah, but also the Son of God.

The major theological question of this passage is, what is the rock upon which the church will be built? Catholic theology views the answer as the man, Peter, since his name meant rock. Others see it as the truth of Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Messiah. For them, Jesus is the foundation. Finally, some see the answer in Jesus’ comment that Peter only knew this by a revelation from God. For them, the foundation of the church is God’s revelation of truth and his will through the Holy Spirit.

A second question is about the binding and loosing of things on earth and in heaven. Was this choice given to Peter and his successors, to the disciples and later to priests and pastors, or perhaps to all Christians? What sort of empowering does it give? Can we make choices that obligate God? The answers to these questions are the basis for significant disagreement between Catholics and Protestants.

The English translation seems to indicate that unlimited power is delivered to the disciples, where they can pick and choose who is saved and who is damned. At that view we are prone to agree with the Pharisees and say, “Only God can forgive sins.”

Perhaps this example will help. If we said to a child, “whatever toys you are allowed to play with in the house will be the toys that are played with in the garage,” we sense a limitation on the child’s choices. The construction is the same. Basically, what the disciples—and current Christians—are authorized to do spiritually is that which occurs beforehand in heaven. We are to follow Jesus’ example and only do what we see the Father doing. God is not obligated to ratify our choices. Rather, we are obligated to copy his actions.

When God has forgiven something in heaven, we are to then forgive it on earth. We do not initiate forgiveness here and God respond. We are to respond to what has already transpired in heaven.

Last, what are the keys to the kingdom? Men may walk though heaven’s gate or reject it, but we can lock others out by our silence or open heaven’s doors by sharing the gospel.