And Simon he surnamed Peter;

MARK 3:16KJV
Know the Bible

Mark 3:16 (KJV)

What does Mark 3:16 mean?

Mark 3:16 records that Jesus gave Simon the additional name "Peter." This verse highlights the moment when Simon, one of Jesus’ chosen followers, is also called Peter, marking a significant point in his identity among the disciples.

In this part of Mark’s Gospel, Jesus is selecting his closest group of followers, known as the twelve apostles. The verse simply notes that Simon receives a new name from Jesus—Peter—which means "rock." This act of renaming sets Simon apart and hints at his future role as a key leader among the disciples.

The Greek behind Mark 3:16

  • "Simon" (Σίμων, Simōn): This is the Greek form of the Hebrew name, showing that the Gospel is written for a Greek-speaking audience but keeps the original Jewish context.
  • "Surnamed" (ἐπέθηκεν ὄνομα, epethēken onoma): The Greek phrase means "to give a name" or "to bestow a title." Here, it signals an intentional act by Jesus, not just a casual nickname.
  • "Peter" (Πέτρος, Petros): This word means "rock" or "stone" in Greek. Jesus’ choice of this name points to Simon’s future role as a foundational figure in the early Christian community.

Why Mark 3:16 matters

  • Mark 3:16 shows that Jesus had the authority to give new names, which often signaled a new purpose or identity in the Bible.
  • The verse sets up Simon Peter’s importance in the story, hinting at his leadership and unique relationship with Jesus.
  • Noting the name change helps readers understand later passages where "Peter" is mentioned, connecting the different names to the same person.

Where else these words appear

“surnamed” Greek G2007 · used in 41 verses

  • Matthew 9:18 While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.
  • Mark 8:25 After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every man clearly.
  • Acts 9:12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

“Simon” Greek G4613 · used in 70 verses

  • Matthew 4:18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
  • Luke 5:10 And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
  • John 18:15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.