Thoughts on the Gospel of John (180) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

But Peter stood at the door outside. Then the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to her who kept the door, and brought Peter in. Then the servant girl who kept the door said to Peter, you are not also one of this Man’s disciples, are you? He said, I am not. Now the servants and officers who had made a fire of coals stood there, for it was cold, and they warmed themselves. And Peter stood with them and warmed himself.
John 18:16–18

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (180)
The sad incident of Peter denying his Lord three times is one of the few events reported by all four evangelists. No one should think that God takes pleasure in sharing the sins of believers. No, He rather intends this as a warning and instruction that is of great importance: those who want to follow Jesus Christ by trusting in their own strength will fail miserably.

Peter and “the other disciple” followed the Lord. The “other disciple” known to the high priest is probably John. He is known to the high priest: this gives him a certain advantage here, which he uses to also bring Peter to the perilous place. The doorkeeper obviously knows that John is a disciple of Jesus. That is why she does not ask him about it. But she is not sure about Peter. She wants to know and approaches him. Peter has allowed himself to fall into temptation – now this becomes a snare for him.

Peter senses the danger that threatens him when he identifies himself as a disciple of Jesus and so he deliberately lies. Hadn’t he just before struck a man with his sword? Now he lacks the strength to withstand the question of a maid. This can happen to every believer if he does not put his trust completely in the Lord.

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today’s reading: Amos 2:1-16 · Proverbs 22:17-29