Mark 14:69

There the servant girl saw him and again said to those standing nearby, "This man is one of them."

Study Bible

There the servant girl saw him
The phrase begins with the location "there," indicating a specific place within the high priest's courtyard where Peter was warming himself by the fire. The "servant girl" is a key figure in this narrative, representing the seemingly insignificant individuals who play pivotal roles in God's unfolding plan. In Greek, the word for "servant girl" is "παιδίσκη" (paidiskē), which denotes a young female servant. Her role is significant as she is the catalyst for Peter's denial, highlighting how God can use anyone, regardless of social status, to fulfill His purposes. The act of "seeing" (Greek: "ὁράω" - horaō) implies more than just physical sight; it suggests recognition and understanding, as she identifies Peter as a follower of Jesus.

and again said to those standing nearby
The word "again" indicates repetition, emphasizing the persistence of the servant girl in her accusation. This repetition is crucial as it sets the stage for Peter's subsequent denials. The phrase "said to those standing nearby" suggests a public declaration, increasing the pressure on Peter. The Greek word for "said" is "λέγω" (legō), which can imply a formal or authoritative statement. The "standing nearby" refers to the bystanders, possibly other servants or guards, who were present in the courtyard. This public setting heightens the tension and the potential for Peter's association with Jesus to be exposed.

'This man is one of them.'
The phrase "This man" is a direct reference to Peter, highlighting his identity and singling him out from the crowd. The Greek word "οὗτος" (houtos) is demonstrative, pointing specifically to Peter. The accusation "is one of them" is significant as it identifies Peter as a disciple of Jesus. The Greek phrase "ἐξ αὐτῶν" (ex autōn) means "of them," indicating belonging or association. This accusation is not just about physical presence but implies a deeper connection to Jesus and His mission. Historically, being identified as a follower of Jesus during this time could lead to persecution, making Peter's fear and subsequent denial understandable from a human perspective. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of human frailty and the challenges of discipleship, calling believers to rely on God's strength in moments of trial.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
One of Jesus' closest disciples, known for his boldness and later leadership in the early church. In this passage, he is in a moment of weakness and fear.

2. Servant Girl
A young female servant who recognizes Peter as a follower of Jesus. Her repeated identification of Peter plays a crucial role in the account of his denial.

3. Those Standing Nearby
The group of people present in the courtyard of the high priest. They are witnesses to the interaction between Peter and the servant girl.

4. The Courtyard of the High Priest
The setting of Peter's denial, a place of trial and tension as Jesus is being questioned by the religious leaders.

5. Denial of Jesus
A significant event where Peter denies knowing Jesus, fulfilling Jesus' earlier prediction and highlighting human frailty.

Teaching Points

Human Weakness and Fear
Peter's denial is a reminder of our own vulnerabilities and the ease with which fear can lead us to compromise our faith.

The Role of Witnesses
The servant girl's recognition of Peter shows how our identity as Christians can be evident to others, even when we try to hide it.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
This event fulfills Jesus' prediction, illustrating the reliability of His words and the importance of trusting in His foreknowledge.

Restoration and Redemption
Despite Peter's failure, his later restoration by Jesus (John 21) offers hope for all believers that failure is not final with God.

Courage in Confession
Encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and openly confess their relationship with Christ, even in challenging circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Peter's denial in Mark 14:69 reflect common struggles that Christians face today in standing up for their faith?

2. In what ways can the recognition by the servant girl be seen as an opportunity for Peter to witness, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

3. How does the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy about Peter's denial strengthen our trust in the reliability of Scripture?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that fear does not lead us to deny our faith in challenging situations?

5. How does Peter's eventual restoration and boldness in Acts 2 encourage us about God's ability to redeem our failures for His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 26:69-75
and Luke 22:55-62
These parallel accounts provide additional details and perspectives on Peter's denial, emphasizing the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy about Peter's actions.

John 18:15-18, 25-27
Offers another account of Peter's denial, highlighting the emotional and spiritual struggle Peter faces.

Mark 14:30
Jesus predicts Peter's denial, which underscores the foreknowledge of Christ and the weakness of human resolve without divine strength.

Acts 2:14-41
Peter's transformation and bold proclamation at Pentecost, demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit to redeem and empower believers.