Most of us know, or think we know, the political conditions in Palestine in Peter's time. They have been described to us often enogh; but here they stalk us. Here, we learn to dread the very word Messiah, which has raised so many bloody and disastrous insurrections. Wherever we follow Jesus, every ear is cocked and waiting for that word. Let it sound, and zealots will rush to arms. Spies will pounce; legions will strike. Simple people will run headlong after the glories of a victory guaranteed by God. Even the Twelve are listening impatiently.

This is the way Dr. Slaughter builds [Upon This Rock,] his story of St. Peter's life. The familiar words and acts are as they always were, but the pressures of the time and circumstances crowd in upon them, turning and shaping them as they occur.

Peter, according to Dr. Slaughter, is neither a...