With the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, conversations surrounding the ancient “Prophecy of the Popes” have resurfaced—particularly the ominous final entry which speaks of a pope called Peter the Roman, who will lead the church during a time of great tribulation.
In a recent video, Christian researcher Josh Peck revisited the centuries-old prophecy attributed to St. Malachy, which some claim predicted every pope from the 12th century onward.
Breaking News. Spirit-Filled Stories. Subscribe to Charisma on YouTube now!
The final prophecy reads: “In the final persecution of the Holy Roman Church, there will sit Peter the Roman, who will pastor his sheep in many tribulations. And when these things are finished, the city of seven hills will be destroyed, and the dreadful judge will judge his people. the end.”
Peck examined whether Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago, could be the fulfillment of this prophecy. Some speculate that since all popes are considered successors to Peter and carry Roman influence, any pope could be called Peter the Roman. But Peck pushed back on this idea.
Order James Lasher’s Newest Book, The Revelation of Jesus, on Amazon.com!
“If Peter in ‘Peter the Roman’ only calls back to the idea that the apostle Peter was the first pope… then it would apply to every single pope,” he said. “So that being the case, why would it only be mentioned in the last one?”
Though various theories attempt to tie Pope Leo XIV to the prophecy—through his name, birthplace or Roman connections—Peck remained unconvinced. “I just have to be honest with you, I don’t see a strong case for Pope Leo the 14th fulfilling the prophecy of Peter the Roman,” he concluded. “Even if every single other prophecy of the past popes was correct and this was the only one that was wrong, then that’s not 100% prophecy and we shouldn’t give it credence.”
Christians are reminded in Scripture to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1), and in times of rising speculation, it’s crucial to remain discerning. As Peck stated plainly, “If this prophecy is true, then this would be the last pope.”
But believers should not base their hope or fear on extra-biblical predictions.
The ultimate guide to what’s ahead remains unchanged: If you want to know what’s coming for humanity, read the book of Revelation.
Join Charisma Magazine Online to follow everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world!
James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
