Peter was adamant that he would stand by Jesus’ side no matter what. In his heart, he believed it, I’m sure, but his passion and impulsivity led him to a serious fall.  

Peter Denies Jesus 

Meanwhile, Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant girl came over and said to him, “You were one of those with Jesus the Galilean.” 

But Peter denied it in front of everyone. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said. 

Later, out by the gate, another servant girl noticed him and said to those standing around, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.” 

Again Peter denied it, this time with an oath. “I don’t even know the man,” he said. 

A little later some of the other bystanders came over to Peter and said, “You must be one of them; we can tell by your Galilean accent.” 

Peter swore, “A curse on me if I’m lying—I don’t know the man!” And immediately the rooster crowed. 

Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he went away, weeping bitterly. 

(Matthew 26:69-75 NLT) 

I can imagine the pain that shot through Peter’s heart when he realised that Jesus’s prediction of his betrayal was accurate. Knowing that he had vehemently opposed Jesus’ accusation then gone back on his word – three times! – must have hurt him deeply. He did love Jesus, which made his denials all the more painful, I’m sure.   

The story, however, goes on…