New Testament
Luke 22:54
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, we see the moment when Jesus is arrested and taken to the high priest's house for questioning.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
They took Jesus and led him to the high priest's house. Peter followed from a distance.
Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the moment when Jesus is arrested and taken to the high priest's house for questioning. This event marks a significant turning point in the narrative of Jesus' life, as he is about to face trial and ultimately crucifixion. Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, follows at a distance, indicating his fear and uncertainty about what is happening. This distance symbolizes the struggle many face in standing up for their beliefs when confronted with danger or opposition. Peter's actions foreshadow his later denial of Jesus, highlighting the theme of human weakness in the face of fear. The high priest's house represents the religious authority that opposes Jesus, setting the stage for the conflict between Jesus and the established religious order. This moment captures the tension between loyalty and fear, as Peter grapples with his commitment to Jesus while witnessing the unfolding events from afar. Explore related betrayal.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 22:54 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own faith and how we respond in challenging situations. Like Peter, we may find ourselves following Jesus from a distance when faced with fear or opposition. It reminds us to stay close to our faith and not let fear dictate our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:54 mean?
Luke 22:54 describes the moment Jesus is arrested and taken to the high priest's house, highlighting Peter's decision to follow at a distance. This reflects Peter's fear and uncertainty, as well as the beginning of the conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities.
What is the significance of Peter following from a distance in Luke 22:54?
Peter following from a distance symbolizes his fear and struggle with loyalty to Jesus during a dangerous moment. It foreshadows his later denial of Jesus, illustrating the theme of human weakness in challenging situations.
What themes are present in Luke 22:54?
Key themes in Luke 22:54 include betrayal, fear, discipleship, authority, conflict, and loyalty. These themes highlight the tension between faith and fear as Peter grapples with his commitment to Jesus.
How does Luke 22:54 relate to the events of Jesus' trial?
Luke 22:54 is crucial as it leads directly to the events of Jesus' trial. It shows the beginning of the confrontation between Jesus and the religious authorities, setting the context for the subsequent questioning and condemnation.

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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