John 18:15

And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and [so did] another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.

And {G1161} Simon {G4613} Peter {G4074} followed {G190} Jesus {G2424}, and {G2532} so did another {G243} disciple {G3101}:{G1161} that {G1565} disciple {G3101} was {G2258} known {G1110} unto the high priest {G749}, and {G2532} went in with {G4897} Jesus {G2424} into {G1519} the palace {G833} of the high priest {G749}.

Shim‘on Kefa and another talmid followed Yeshua. The second talmid was known to the cohen hagadol, and he went with Yeshua into the courtyard of the cohen hagadol;

Now Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he also went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest.

And Simon Peter followed Jesus, andso didanother disciple. Now that disciple was known unto the high priest, and entered in with Jesus into the court of the high priest;

Commentary

Context

John 18:15 places us immediately after Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. While most of the disciples had scattered, as Jesus had foretold (John 16:32), two remained, following at a distance. This verse sets the stage for Jesus' initial interrogation before Annas and Caiaphas, and crucially, for Simon Peter's impending denials.

Key Figures and Their Roles

  • Simon Peter: Peter's presence here highlights his initial courage and loyalty, despite his earlier rash act of striking the high priest's servant's ear in Gethsemane (John 18:10). His decision to follow Jesus into this hostile environment demonstrates a deep, albeit flawed, devotion. However, this proximity also exposes him to the very situation where he would famously deny Christ.
  • The "Another Disciple": While unnamed, consistent tradition and internal evidence within the Gospel of John strongly identify this disciple as John himself, the author of this Gospel. John often refers to himself anonymously, for example, as "the disciple whom Jesus loved." His unique access, being "known unto the high priest," is crucial. This connection likely stemmed from his family's status or business connections in Jerusalem, allowing him to gain entry for both himself and Peter.

Significance of Access

The fact that the "another disciple" was known to the high priest is a pivotal detail. This familial or social connection allowed him to enter the heavily guarded courtyard of the high priest's palace (likely the residence of Caiaphas, the acting high priest, or his influential father-in-law Annas). This access not only enabled the author to be an eyewitness to the events unfolding inside but also paved the way for Peter to enter (John 18:16), leading directly to his three denials. This detail underscores the historical reliability of John's account as an eyewitness.

Linguistic Insight

The term "palace" (Greek: aulē - αὐλὴ) here refers more accurately to the courtyard or enclosed dwelling compound of the high priest, rather than a magnificent public building. It signifies the private residence where religious leaders conducted their business, often featuring an open central area where servants and guards would gather. This courtyard setting is where Peter's denials would unfold, making it a place of both access and profound spiritual danger.

Practical Application

This verse offers a poignant look at human nature under immense pressure. Peter's attempt to follow Jesus closely, though commendable in intent, illustrates the danger of overestimating one's own strength without relying on divine empowerment. It reminds us that even with good intentions, we can stumble when confronted with fear or opposition. The presence of the "another disciple" highlights the importance of having connections or being in a position to witness and record crucial events, providing a unique perspective for future generations. It also subtly emphasizes the theme of eyewitness testimony central to John's Gospel.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Luke 22:54

    ¶ Then took they him, and led [him], and brought him into the high priest's house. And Peter followed afar off.

  • Mark 14:54

    And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.

  • Matthew 26:58

    But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

  • Matthew 26:68

    Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?

  • Matthew 26:3

    Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,
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