The claim that the Catholic Church was the first church and that Peter was the first pope is based on a combination of historical evidence and theological interpretation. While there are no specific historical documents or books that definitively prove these assertions, there are several sources that provide insights into the early development of the Church and its leadership.
New Testament: The New Testament, particularly the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, provide accounts of Jesus' teachings, the establishment of the early Christian community, and the role of Peter among the apostles. These texts form the foundation of the historical and theological claims of the Catholic Church.
Early Christian Writings: Early Christian writings, such as the letters of Ignatius of Antioch and Clement of Rome, offer glimpses into the early Church's organizational structure and the recognition of Peter's authority. These writings, while not providing explicit details about the papacy, indicate a developing understanding of Peter's special role among the apostles.
Church Fathers: The writings of early Church Fathers, such as Tertullian, Cyprian, and Irenaeus, reflect the belief in the primacy of Peter and the apostolic succession of bishops. These Church Fathers, living in the second and third centuries, provide historical evidence of the early Christian understanding of Peter's authority and the continuity of leadership within the Church.
Early Councils: The early Church councils, such as the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, discussed matters of doctrine and Church governance. While not directly addressing the papacy, these councils demonstrate the recognition of the authority of bishops, including the Bishop of Rome, in matters of faith and decision-making.
Papal Lists and Succession: Historical records, such as papal lists and genealogies, trace the lineage of popes from Peter to the present day. These lists, while not providing detailed historical documentation, contribute to the understanding of the continuity of the papal office and its historical significance.
It is important to note that the historical evidence supporting the Catholic Church's claim as the first church and Peter's role as the first pope is subject to interpretation and scholarly debate. Different Christian denominations may have varying perspectives on these matters, and historical evidence can be subject to different interpretations.
