The Book of Acts begins with Peter as the chief spokesman of the twelve, but his authority diminishes gradually as the Apostle Paul takes over. As John the Baptist said about Jesus: "He must increase, but I must decrease". The Old Testament precept from 2Sam3:1,10, spoke of how the House of David was increasing, but the House of Saul was declining. Note the pattern of Peter/Paul.
Contrast and compare Peter with Paul: (Book of Acts)
1. Peter was freed from jail by an angel: 12:6. For Paul it was an earthquake: 16:25.
2. Notable healing by Peter was lame man of 3:2. For Paul it was the cripple of 14:9.
3. Peter raised Tabitha from dead: 9:36. For Paul it was Eutychus: 20:9
4. Compare the "shadow of Peter", 5:15, with the "handkerchief of Paul", 19:12.
5. Peter was special minister to the Jews. Paul to the Gentiles. Galatians 2:7.
6. Peter denied Jesus three times. Mk14:30. God denied Paul thrice. 2Cor12:8.
7. Paul ministered to Aquila & Priscilla: Acts18:2. Peter 'ministered' to Ananias & Sapphira...it fits the pattern of "first the male, and then the female", Acts5 -- "3 hours later".
8. Peter was sent to Cornelius (first Gentile). 10:45. Paul went to Rome: 28:28. (not Peter!)
9. Paul wrote "be ye no more children", Eph4:14. Peter wrote "as obedient children.." 1Pet1:14.
10. Count their speeches: Peter has seven, and Paul has eight. Or thereabouts.
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