New Testament
Luke 22:34
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus predicts that Peter, one of his closest disciples, will deny knowing him three times before the day ends.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Jesus said, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow today before you have denied three times that you know me."
And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus predicts that Peter, one of his closest disciples, will deny knowing him three times before the day ends. This statement highlights Peter's impending failure and the fragility of human loyalty, even among the most devoted followers. Jesus uses the metaphor of a rooster crowing to signify the morning, indicating that this denial will happen soon. Despite Peter's earlier confidence in his loyalty, Jesus reveals the truth about human weakness and the challenges of faith. This moment foreshadows the trials that the disciples will face and serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and vigilance in one's faith journey. It also emphasizes Jesus' foreknowledge of events, showcasing his divine insight into human behavior and the unfolding of God's plan. Explore related prophecy.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 22:34 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own faithfulness and the times we may falter. It reminds us to stay humble and aware of our weaknesses, seeking strength through prayer and community support to remain steadfast in our beliefs, even in challenging situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:34 mean?
In Luke 22:34, Jesus tells Peter that he will deny knowing him three times before the rooster crows, highlighting Peter's impending failure and the fragility of human loyalty.
What is the significance of the rooster in Luke 22:34?
The rooster symbolizes the morning and serves as a marker for the time when Peter will deny Jesus, emphasizing the immediacy of the prediction and the seriousness of Peter's upcoming betrayal.
What does Jesus' prediction about Peter reveal?
Jesus' prediction reveals his foreknowledge of events and the reality of human weakness, even among his closest followers, reminding us of the challenges of faith.
How does Luke 22:34 relate to themes of faith and loyalty?
This verse illustrates the theme of loyalty by showing that even the most devoted can falter, encouraging believers to remain humble and vigilant in their faith.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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