New Testament
Mark 14:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus said to him, "I tell you the truth: today — this very night — before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me 3 times."
Compare translations
And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.
What Mark 14:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to Peter, one of his closest disciples, and making a startling prediction about Peter's future actions. He emphasizes the certainty of his statement by saying, "I tell you the truth." Jesus reveals that before the night ends and the rooster crows twice, Peter will deny knowing him three times. This moment highlights Peter's impending failure and the struggle between his intentions and his actions. Despite Peter's earlier confidence in his loyalty, Jesus foresees his weakness under pressure. This prediction serves as a reminder of human frailty and the challenges of faithfulness, especially in difficult circumstances. It also sets the stage for Peter's later repentance and restoration, illustrating the theme of grace and forgiveness. Jesus' foreknowledge of Peter's denial underscores his divine insight into human behavior, showing that even the most devoted followers can falter. This moment is pivotal in the narrative, revealing both the depth of Peter's love for Jesus and the reality of his impending betrayal.
How to apply Mark 14:30 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own faithfulness and the times we may falter under pressure. It reminds us that even strong believers can struggle, but there is always an opportunity for repentance and restoration. We should seek strength in our faith and support from others.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: “You Will Deny Me Three Times” (Mark 14:27–31)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Mark 14:30
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Mark 14:30
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 14:30 teach about human weakness?
Mark 14:30 illustrates the reality of human weakness, showing that even the most devoted followers, like Peter, can falter under pressure. Jesus predicts Peter's denial, highlighting that despite his strong intentions, fear and circumstances can lead to failure. This serves as a reminder that we all have moments of weakness, but it is important to recognize these struggles and seek forgiveness and strength in our faith.
Why did Jesus predict Peter's denial?
Jesus predicted Peter's denial to demonstrate his divine insight into human behavior and to prepare Peter for the challenges he would face. This prediction emphasizes the contrast between Peter's confidence and his eventual failure, illustrating that even the strongest believers can succumb to fear. It also sets the stage for Peter's later repentance, showcasing the themes of grace and restoration in the Christian faith.
How can we apply Mark 14:30 to our lives today?
Mark 14:30 encourages us to reflect on our own faithfulness and the times we may struggle under pressure. It reminds us that everyone can experience moments of doubt or denial, but there is always an opportunity for repentance and renewal. By acknowledging our weaknesses, we can seek support from our faith community and strive to strengthen our relationship with God, knowing that forgiveness is always available.
What does the rooster crowing symbolize in Mark 14:30?
In Mark 14:30, the rooster crowing symbolizes the moment of truth and the awakening of Peter's conscience. It serves as a reminder of Jesus' prophecy and the impending denial. The crowing of the rooster marks a pivotal point in the narrative, prompting Peter to realize his failure and ultimately leading to his repentance. This symbolism highlights the themes of awareness and the consequences of our actions.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.