Matthew 26:69–75 recounts the moment when Peter denies Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus’ earlier prediction.
Even when we fall, Jesus makes a way back to grace.
Matthew 26:69–75 (NASB 2020)
69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard, and a slave woman came to him and said, “You too were with Jesus the Galilean.” 70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are talking about.” 71 When he had gone out to the gateway, another slave woman saw him and said to those who were there, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.” 72 And again he denied it, with an oath: “I do not know the man.” 73 A little later, the bystanders came up and said to Peter, “You really are one of them as well, since even the way you talk gives you away.” 74 Then he began to curse and swear, “I do not know the man!” And immediately a rooster crowed. 75 And Peter remembered the statement that Jesus had made: “Before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.
Who Was Involved?
- Peter, the bold disciple, now afraid and ashamed
- Slave women and bystanders, pointing out his association with Jesus
- Jesus, not physically present, but whose prophecy comes true
- Us, as we wrestle with fear, denial, and restoration
What Happened?
- Peter is recognized as a disciple of Jesus while Jesus is on trial
- He denies knowing Jesus three separate times
- His final denial is emphatic, filled with swearing and cursing
- The rooster crows, just as Jesus predicted
- Peter remembers and breaks down in bitter tears
The Mood: Shame, Fear, Conviction
- Peter is overwhelmed by the fear of association and possible consequences
- After the rooster crows, conviction crashes down
- His reaction is deeply emotional and sincere
The Principle: Failure Is Not the End of the Story
- We all experience moments of weakness where fear overrides faith
- Jesus foreknew Peter’s failure, yet still loved and restored him later (John 21)
- God uses even our lowest moments to shape deeper humility and purpose
Audience Response (Then)
- The crowd dismissed Peter after his denials
- There is no confrontation, only rejection
- Peter is isolated by his own fear and guilt
What This Means for Us in 2025
- We may face moments when identifying with Jesus feels risky
- Our response matters — but so does our repentance when we fall short
- Jesus offers forgiveness and restoration, not condemnation
Action Steps for Today
- Own your faith boldly. Don’t shrink back in moments of challenge
- Recognize your warnings. Listen when the Spirit checks your heart
- Repent quickly. Don’t wait to turn back to Jesus
- Receive grace. Know that failure doesn’t define you
- Strengthen others. Use your past to help others stay faithful
Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, I admit that I have denied You in moments of fear or convenience. Forgive me for putting comfort over conviction. Thank You for Your grace that restores me. Like Peter, help me turn my failure into deeper faith. In Your name, Amen.
Jesus saw Peter’s failure coming—and already had a plan to restore him.
