Jesus Gives His Apostles Priesthood Keys
“Upon this rock I will build my church”
One day, Jesus asked His disciples who people thought He was. His disciples answered that some people said He was John the Baptist. Others thought He was a prophet from the Old Testament who had returned.
Then Jesus asked His disciples who they thought He was. Peter said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Jesus was happy to hear Peter say this. He told Peter that he didn’t learn who Jesus was from other people. Heavenly Father revealed it to him.
Jesus told Peter, “Upon this rock I will build my church.” Then He promised to give Peter priesthood keys, or authority from God, so he and the other Apostles could lead His Church on the earth.
A few days later, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain to pray.
While Jesus prayed, His face shined like the sun. Even His clothing looked bright.
Two prophets from the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah, appeared. They talked with Jesus about His death and Resurrection, which would happen soon in Jerusalem. Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here.”
Matthew 17:3–4; Luke 9:30–33; see the Joseph Smith Translation in note 31a
While Peter was speaking, a bright cloud surrounded them. They heard God’s voice saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” Peter, James, and John were afraid and fell to the ground.
Jesus touched His Apostles and said, “Arise, and be not afraid.” They looked up. Moses and Elijah were gone. On this mountain, Peter, James, and John received the priesthood keys that Jesus had promised them.