Misquoting Jesus with Bart Ehrman Did Peter Really Found the Church in Rome?
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Nov 18, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, New Testament scholar Bart Ehrman delves into the historical claims surrounding Peter as the founder of the church in Rome. He explores the earliest evidence, including Paul's letter, which intriguingly omits Peter's presence. Ehrman describes the early church's lack of formal hierarchy and examines how different cities organized their communities. He also traces the development of the tradition linking Peter to Rome, while revealing that many claims arose centuries after his time. It’s a thought-provoking take on early Christianity!
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Peter As Early Movement Leader
- Peter likely became the early movement's central leader because he was Jesus' closest disciple and eyewitness to a resurrection appearance.
- Bart Ehrman argues this prominence made Peter the rallying figure who helped start the early Christian movement.
Earliest Evidence: Paul's Letter To Rome
- Paul's letter to the Romans (early 60s) provides the earliest solid evidence for an established church in Rome.
- Paul writes to a sizable Roman community despite never having visited the city.
Peter Is Absent From Paul's Roman Greetings
- Paul's Roman greetings omit Peter's name despite Paul's clear acquaintance with him.
- Ehrman takes this omission as evidence Peter likely was not present or leader in Rome when Paul wrote.
