Written in the second century AD (probably in the first half), the Apocalypse of Peter enjoyed great popularity for some time. It was cited, for example, 'with respect by Clement of Alexandria', but seems to have 'in the long run dropped out of knowledge altogether'. David Frankfurter disagrees with the idea that the Apocalypse of Peter originates in Palestine and sees its roots in Egypt. The text, which only survives in fragments, suggests itself as the ultimate source for writings such as 'the (Christian) Apocalypse of Esdras, the Vision of Paul, the Passion of S. Perpetua and the visions contained in the History of Barlaam and Josaphat.'

'It consists essentially of a protracted eschatological discourse revealed to Peter by Jesus, covering the final woes of the earth, the judgment, and then the lurid punishments that special angels will bring upon those who persecute the "elect"'.

A translation of the Akhmim fragment can be found at the Christian Classics Ethereal Library.