John-Christian Eurell studies how Peter's authority is portrayed to create legitimacy in
Christian texts. Peter emerges as a central figure in the diverse early Christian movement and
is used to discuss theological legitimacy. The main divide is between those who argue that
legitimate theology should have a conservative point of departure based on traditional material
handed down from the earthly Jesus and an apostolic succession based on interpersonal relations
and those who argue in favour of a more progressive point of departure which places emphasis on
contemporary charismatic experiences. These perspectives are utilised by groups of various
theological persuasions to argue their own position. Peter is seen as a positive and negative
example for both these ways of creating legitimacy.
