New Testament
Matthew 26:71
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, Peter is outside in the courtyard after Jesus' arrest.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
When he moved out to the gateway, another servant girl noticed him and told the people standing there, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth."
And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Peter is outside in the courtyard after Jesus' arrest. A servant girl recognizes him and points him out to others, claiming he was with Jesus. This moment highlights Peter's struggle with fear and his desire to distance himself from Jesus during a critical time. The servant girl's accusation serves as a reminder of the scrutiny and pressure faced by Jesus' followers. Peter's denial of association with Jesus is a pivotal moment in the narrative, showcasing the tension between loyalty and self-preservation. This incident foreshadows Peter's later repentance and restoration after Jesus' resurrection, illustrating the theme of forgiveness and redemption. The verse emphasizes the challenges of standing firm in faith when faced with opposition or danger, a situation many believers can relate to in their own lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 26:71 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own faith under pressure. When faced with challenges, we may feel tempted to distance ourselves from our beliefs. It's important to stand firm in our faith and remember that even in moments of weakness, there is always the opportunity for forgiveness and restoration.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 26:71 mean?
Matthew 26:71 describes a moment when Peter is recognized by a servant girl as someone who was with Jesus. This highlights Peter's fear and his struggle to maintain his association with Jesus during a time of danger.
What is the significance of Peter's denial in Matthew 26:71?
Peter's denial in this verse illustrates the tension between loyalty to Jesus and the fear of public scrutiny. It marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, foreshadowing his later repentance and the theme of redemption.
What does the servant girl say in Matthew 26:71?
In Matthew 26:71, the servant girl tells those around her that Peter was with Jesus of Nazareth. This accusation puts Peter in a difficult position, reflecting the pressure faced by Jesus' followers.
How does Matthew 26:71 relate to themes of fear and loyalty?
Matthew 26:71 showcases Peter's fear of association with Jesus, highlighting the struggle between personal safety and loyalty to faith. It serves as a reminder of the challenges believers may face when their faith is tested.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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