New Testament
Matthew 26:34
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Jesus said to him, "I tell you the truth: tonight, before the rooster crows, you will deny me 3 times."
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Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
What Matthew 26:34 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to Peter, one of his closest disciples, and foretelling that Peter will deny knowing him three times before the rooster crows in the morning. This statement highlights Jesus' awareness of future events and Peter's impending failure. Despite Peter's strong declarations of loyalty, Jesus reveals the truth about human weakness and the challenges of faith. The rooster crowing serves as a symbol of morning and awakening, contrasting with the darkness of Peter's denial. This moment emphasizes the theme of betrayal and the struggle between faith and fear, showing that even the most devoted followers can falter under pressure. It also sets the stage for Peter's later repentance and restoration, illustrating the possibility of redemption after failure. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and vigilance in our faith journey, as well as the grace that is available to us even when we stumble.
How to apply Matthew 26:34 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own faithfulness and the times we may have faltered. It reminds us that everyone can face moments of weakness, but there is always an opportunity for repentance and restoration. We should strive to remain vigilant in our commitment to our beliefs.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: “You Will Deny Me Three Times” (Matthew 26:31–35)
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Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 26:34 mean?
In Matthew 26:34, Jesus predicts that Peter will deny him three times before the rooster crows. This highlights Jesus' knowledge of future events and illustrates human weakness, even among devoted followers.
What is the significance of the rooster crowing in Matthew 26:34?
The rooster crowing symbolizes the arrival of morning and awakening, contrasting with Peter's denial. It serves as a reminder of the moment of betrayal and the struggle between faith and fear.
What does this verse reveal about Peter's character?
This verse shows that despite Peter's strong loyalty to Jesus, he is susceptible to fear and weakness. It emphasizes that even the most devoted individuals can falter under pressure.
How does Matthew 26:34 relate to themes of redemption?
Matthew 26:34 sets the stage for Peter's later repentance and restoration, illustrating that failure does not have to be final. It highlights the possibility of redemption after moments of weakness.
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