Which of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ was the first leader of the early Church?

There seems to some gaps misconception in this answer. Jesus said, upon this rock, I will build my church. Jesus is the rock. There were underground churches already started.

Peter was not the first pope. He was not THE first leader in the church. James and Peter were the leaders of the church in Jerusalem. Paul left Jerusalem and established churches throughout Asia Minor. In Matthew 16, Jesus calls Peter "Petros" which means "a piece of rock". When Jesus refers to the foundation of the church, he uses the word "petra" which means bedrock or massive rock. Jesus was referring to himself, not Peter, as the foundation of his church. Throughout the four gospels, Jesus constantly refers to himself as the place where people need to put their faith. He never tells the to put their faith in Peter.

Player #7200338, The Catholic Church will also not allow you to take communion unless you are a Catholic. Somehow I don't see Jesus refusing to give communion to anyone. I believe in an open table for communion.

on this rock being Rome I will build my Church

EvansNan, Everyone is welcome to join the Catholic Church and receive Holy Communion.

Quiz77, Peter was the rock. That’s what the name means.

Quiz77, His is the real one

Timoteo, I think you are a bit confused on the question. It doesn't ask anything about the word Pope. Also, Paul's teachings came way after Peter as Paul was then known as Saul who persecuted the Christians.

Timoteo, that is true

God bless all of you! Have a good day/afternoon/night too!

Quiz77, well says make your mine words as per Scripture James was the real leader and Peter was ,second Catholics believes, but it's in the Bible in the Book of Acts Chp. 11 and 12

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ZyggyStardust, Matthew 18:18 says Whatever you bind .... not whoever