Peter had faith in his love for Jesus and responded harshly when Jesus informed Peter that he would end up denying Jesus three times. When Jesus was arrested, Peter fled the scene. Upon arriving where they were keeping him, Peter denied having known Jesus thrice. Upon realizing the prophecy came true, Peter felt shame and ran crying.

 

However, Peter was also one of the first apostles to see Jesus after the Resurrection as he did not let his betrayal sway his love and Jesus forgave him. Peter then went on to lead the expansion of Christianity across the globe with his travels and teachings.

 

Although unsubstantiated, some claim Peter founded the church in Rome and served as the first pope before dying by crucifixion himself. This image of him as pope is also tied to the popular image of Peter being the gatekeeper with keys to Heaven.