Then Jesus answered, “Will you really lay down your life for me? I tell you the truth, before the cock crows, you will disown me three times!
The other disciples joined in Peter’s boast (Mark 14:31; Mat 26:35) and then Jesus answers. Morris observes that “Peter’s readiness to die for Jesus is not quite what he thinks it is. His use of the sword in the garden shows that he was ready in certain circumstances to face death boldly. There was truth as well as error in his words. But he was not ready to stand for Christ when all seemed lost. That demanded a different brand of courage and devotion.”
Mark 14:31 But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same.
Matthew 26:35 But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.
Jesus solemnly says, “truly, truly” to show the gravity of what followed. The prediction shocked Peter and we do not hear from him again until Peter uses his sword in the garden (18:10) though the others were speaking quite freely. The fulfilment of Christ’s prophecy is in (18:27).
John 18:10 Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)
John 18:27 Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a cock began to crow.
What emotions do you think Jesus felt as He said this to Peter? Do you think He has ever felt those same emotions as He spoke to you?