What is the meaning of Matthew 26:71? When Peter had gone out to the gateway • Peter has already denied Jesus once in the courtyard (Matthew 26:69–70). Moving to the gateway looks like a quiet attempt to distance himself from danger, yet he remains close enough to hear what might happen to Jesus (cf. Luke 22:60–61). • The gateway was still within the high priest’s compound; Peter’s shift in location does not remove him from temptation, reminding us that physical relocation alone cannot safeguard a wavering heart (Proverbs 4:23; 1 Corinthians 10:12). • John 18:15–16 notes that another disciple gained Peter entry; even good connections cannot substitute for courage informed by faith. another servant girl saw him • The first accuser was a servant girl as well; this second one confirms that the threat can arise repeatedly and from unexpected places (Mark 14:69). • God’s Word shows that trials often recur until a lesson is learned (James 1:2–4); Peter’s repeated testing prepares him for future leadership (John 21:15–17). • The servant girl “saw him” underscores how visible a follower of Christ should be. Peter’s face is recognizable because he has spent time with Jesus (Acts 4:13), yet his present fear mutes his witness. and said to the people there, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.” • Her statement is true. Association with Jesus is the defining reality of discipleship (John 15:4–5). • The title “Jesus of Nazareth” highlights the Savior’s humble origins (Matthew 2:23) and fulfills prophetic expectation. Being linked to Him may invite scorn, yet it is the ground of all honor (Romans 1:16). • Peter’s looming second denial (Matthew 26:72) illustrates how fleshly resolve fails without reliance on the Spirit (Zechariah 4:6; Galatians 5:16). • The surrounding crowd now hears the accusation; public pressure often amplifies temptation (Proverbs 29:25). summary Matthew 26:71 records the second step in Peter’s downward spiral that night. Moving toward the gateway, he hopes for safety yet stays vulnerable. A second servant girl identifies him, and her truthful charge—“This man was with Jesus of Nazareth”—places Peter again at a crossroads. The verse exposes the insufficiency of self-confidence and the inevitability of repeated testing, while also affirming that genuine discipleship is recognizable. It invites us to stand firm when association with our Lord is questioned, leaning on the Spirit rather than our own strength. |
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