New Testament
Mark 14:71
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Peter began to call down curses on himself and swore, "I don't know this man you're talking about!"
Compare translations
But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.
What Mark 14:71 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Peter is in a moment of fear and denial. After being recognized as a follower of Jesus, he reacts by vehemently denying any association with Him. Peter's use of curses and swearing indicates his desperation to distance himself from Jesus, showing the intensity of his fear and the pressure he felt in that moment. This denial fulfills Jesus' earlier prediction that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed. It highlights the struggle between loyalty and fear, illustrating how even the most devoted followers can falter under pressure. Peter's actions serve as a reminder of human frailty and the challenges of standing firm in faith during difficult times. This moment is pivotal, as it sets the stage for Peter's later repentance and restoration, emphasizing the theme of redemption in the face of failure.
How to apply Mark 14:71 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own moments of fear and denial. When faced with pressure, we may be tempted to compromise our beliefs. It's important to seek strength in faith and remember that even in our failures, there is an opportunity for forgiveness and restoration.
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 Jesus's story: Peter Denies Jesus (Mark 14:66–72)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
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 14:71
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 14:71
Related Bible verses
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 14:71 mean?
Mark 14:71 captures Peter's intense fear and denial as he disassociates himself from Jesus after being recognized as a follower. His use of curses shows the depth of his desperation to avoid any connection with Jesus during a moment of danger.
What is the significance of Peter's denial in Mark 14:71?
Peter's denial in Mark 14:71 is significant as it fulfills Jesus' prediction that Peter would deny Him three times. This moment illustrates the struggle between loyalty and fear, highlighting human frailty in challenging situations.
What does Peter's swearing indicate in Mark 14:71?
Peter's swearing in Mark 14:71 indicates his extreme fear and urgency to deny any association with Jesus. It reflects the pressure he felt in that moment, emphasizing how fear can lead even devoted followers to falter.
How does Mark 14:71 relate to themes of redemption?
Mark 14:71 relates to themes of redemption by showcasing Peter's failure and subsequent repentance. This moment sets the stage for Peter's later restoration, emphasizing that even in our failures, there is hope for forgiveness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.