You Will Be Peter by Jerry Lathan with Steven Manchester
Publisher: Forefront Books
Genre: Historical, Inspirational, Fiction
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Lavender

He’s one of the most well-known figures in cultures around the world, etched into stained glass, painted in frescoes, even caricatured as standing at the gates of heaven with a long white beard and keys in hand. But long before he was portrayed as a venerated and untouchable figure, Peter was simply known as Simon, a twenty-something fisherman in a far-flung Jewish province controlled by the Roman Empire.

Loyal and faithful, impetuous and passionate, Simon’s quiet life is upended by the arrival of a man called Jesus of Nazareth, rumored to be the long-awaited Messiah who would rescue the Jewish people from oppression. When Simon meets Jesus, the mysterious man tells him, “You will be Peter,” a prophetic statement that would slowly transform Simon’s life. Eager to be free of the Romans, Simon joins Jesus in hopes that he can guard this leader who will, undoubtedly, build an army to challenge Rome. But as Simon waits for the army to form, he watches Jesus show a compassion for others Simon has never seen before. The miracles Jesus performs—healing the sick, feeding crowds of thousands—show not a display of military might, but of service and love.

Real, relatable and impeccably researched, You Will Be Peter draws on the four Gospel accounts to weave Simon Peter’s story into one seamless tapestry. Readers get a front-row seat to Simon’s three-year walk with Jesus, as Simon watches the Son of Man feed the hungry, raise the dead, upend the status quo and challenge the elite during one of world history’s most pivotal seasons.

In perhaps one of the greatest miracles, we can see ourselves in Simon, this ordinary man Jesus chose to accompany Him. Simon wasn’t well-educated, but he was faithful and headstrong. Though he could rush to judgment and use a foul word from time to time, he was the kind of friend who loved fiercely and was doggedly loyal—until he wasn’t. Although he failed, Simon wasn’t cast away from Jesus’ mission. In fact, his failures and subsequent redemption made him a more empathetic and capable rock upon whom the Church was built.

With storytelling artistry that transports readers to the first-century world, with the sights, sounds, and smells of that time, You Will Be Peter shares an age-old story told from a new set of eyes: it’s possible for one ordinary person, however unlikely, to change the world forever.

In You Will Be Peter, authors Jerry Lathan and Steven Manchester craft a remarkable narrative that revisits the life of one of history’s most iconic figures, Simon Peter. Often depicted in religious art as the esteemed apostle with keys in hand, Peter’s origins as an ordinary fisherman are seldom explored in depth.

This story delves into the transformative journey of Simon Peter as he encounters Jesus of Nazareth, illustrating how an uneducated man’s faith and loyalty can lead to a monumental impact on the world. At the story’s outset, we meet Simon, a young fisherman living under the overbearing rule of the Roman Empire. His life is one of simplicity and routine, until the arrival of Jesus, a man whose reputation as the Messiah incites hope among the Jewish people. The moment Simon meets Jesus, his life is irrevocably altered when he hears the words, “You will be Peter.” In this prophetic declaration lies the promise of transformation—not only of his name but also of his identity and purpose. Here, Lathan and Manchester effectively set the stage for a profound exploration of faith, loyalty, and the potential for change in every individual.

As Simon embarks on his journey with Jesus, he initially envisions a rebellion against their Roman oppressors. The expectation of military might is soon overshadowed by the reality of Jesus’ teachings and actions, which emphasize compassion, service, and love over violence and dominance. Through miraculous acts, such as healing the sick and feeding the hungry, Jesus reveals a different kind of strength—one rooted in humility and selflessness. This evolution of Simon’s understanding is pivotal; it illustrates how personal growth often occurs through witnessing the exemplary qualities of others. The authors adeptly capture Simon’s internal conflict as he grapples with his hopes for a warrior Messiah and the reality of Jesus’ mission. One of the most compelling aspects of You Will Be Peter is its portrayal of Simon as a flawed yet relatable character. He is not depicted as a paragon of virtue but rather as a passionate individual who occasionally falters. His impetuous nature leads him to make hasty judgments, and he experiences moments of failure—most notably when he denies knowing Jesus during the latter’s trial. These human shortcomings resonate with readers, reminding us that imperfection is part of the human experience. However, what truly sets Simon apart is his capacity for redemption.

The story reveals that failure does not equate to disqualification from purpose; rather, it can become a catalyst for growth and deeper empathy. This theme of redemption is integral to the narrative and underscores the belief that everyone, regardless of their past, can contribute meaningfully to the greater good. The authors also excel in their vivid storytelling, transporting readers to the first-century world filled with sensory details—the sights, sounds, and smells of the time. This immersive approach allows readers to experience the historical context that shaped Simon Peter’s journey. It emphasizes the urgency and significance of Jesus’ mission during a pivotal moment in history. By placing Simon at the forefront of this narrative, Lathan and Manchester invite readers to see themselves in this ordinary man—their struggles, their hopes, and their potential for change.

Ultimately, You Will Be Peter serves as a powerful reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can alter the course of history. Simon Peter’s transformation from a humble fisherman to the foundational rock of the Church illustrates that greatness is often born out of everyday experiences, faith, and the willingness to embrace one’s calling, even amidst uncertainty. This narrative not only reexamines the life of a biblical figure but also challenges readers to reflect on their journeys, encouraging them to embrace their imperfections and recognize the potential for greatness within themselves. Through Simon’s story, we learn that the path to making a difference in the world begins with a single step of faith.