How do we know that Peter was not the first pastor of the Roman church?
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Peter's absence in Romans 16 suggests he was not initially the pastor of the Roman church, as Paul does not mention him among the leaders.
Peter's name is notably missing in Romans 16, where Paul addresses various individuals within the Roman church. This omission implies that if Peter were indeed the pastor as claimed by some, Paul would have certainly recognized him. The early church in Rome was likely founded by those who encountered the gospel at Pentecost (Acts 2) and returned to Rome, which does not necessitate Peter's presence. Furthermore, Paul, who had a unique ministry to the Gentiles, had not visited Rome prior to writing, which challenges the notion that Peter was the authoritative figure in that location.
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