Luke 22:55

KJV

And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when they {G846} had kindled {G681} a fire {G4442} in {G1722} the midst {G3319} of the hall {G833}, and {G2532} were set down together {G4776}, Peter {G4074} sat down {G2521} among {G3319}{G1722} them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but when they had lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Kefa joined them.

Berean Standard Bible

When those present had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them.

American Standard Version

And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the court, and had sat down together, Peter sat in the midst of them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 22:55 describes Peter's precarious position in the high priest's courtyard following Jesus' arrest. As a fire is kindled in the center of the hall for warmth, Peter, having followed at a distance, joins the group gathered around it. This seemingly innocuous act of seeking warmth places him directly in the environment of Jesus' accusers and sets the stage for the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy concerning Peter's denial, highlighting the subtle yet profound dangers of compromising proximity to temptation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Judas betrayed Him with a kiss, and Peter impulsively drew his sword ([Luke 22:47-53](/luke/22-47-53 "Luke 22:47-53 - Jesus' Arrest")). Luke 22:54 then states that Jesus was led away to the high priest's house, and Peter followed "at a distance." Luke 22:55 thus transitions the narrative focus from Jesus' initial interrogation to Peter's unfolding crisis of faith, setting the physical scene for his subsequent denials, which are detailed in the verses immediately following ([Luke 22:56-62](/luke/22-56-62 "Luke 22:56-62 - Peter's Denials")). It is a crucial pivot point, moving from the external conflict of Jesus' capture to the internal struggle of His closest disciple.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described occurred late at night, likely in the pre-dawn hours, making the air cold, especially in the elevated city of Jerusalem. The "hall" (Greek: _aulē_) refers to the open courtyard of the high priest's residence, a common architectural feature in large ancient Near Eastern homes. These courtyards served as semi-public spaces, accessible to household servants, guards, and those involved in legal proceedings, such as members of the Sanhedrin. Kindling a fire in the midst of such a courtyard was a practical necessity for warmth, but it also created a natural gathering point, drawing people together and making individuals more visible in the flickering light. This detail is corroborated by [John 18:18](/john/18-18 "John 18:18 - Peter at the Fire"), which also mentions Peter standing and warming himself by a charcoal fire, underscoring the commonality of the practice and the specific conditions of that night.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 22:55 contributes significantly to several key themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader Passion narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Human Frailty and Vulnerability**, particularly concerning Peter, who, despite his earlier bold declaration of loyalty to Jesus ([Luke 22:33](/luke/22-33 "Luke 22:33 - Peter's Vow of Loyalty")), now finds himself in a compromising position. His decision to sit "among them" underscores the subtle way fear and self-preservation can lead even the most devoted followers into situations of temptation. Secondly, the verse serves as crucial **Foreshadowing and Fulfillment of Prophecy**. Jesus had explicitly predicted Peter's denial before the rooster crowed ([Luke 22:34](/luke/22-34 "Luke 22:34 - Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial")), and this scene meticulously sets the stage for that prophecy's grim realization. The fire itself, while practical, also functions as a **Symbol of Exposure**, making Peter visible and creating the very circumstances for his recognition and subsequent challenges.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **fire (Greek, _pŷr'_):** Refers to a literal fire, kindled for warmth in the cold night. In this context, it is more than just a source of heat; it becomes a focal point that draws people together and, ironically, illuminates Peter's presence, making him identifiable and vulnerable to questioning. Its literal function creates the setting for a profound spiritual test.
* **hall (Greek, _aulḗ'_):** Denotes an open courtyard or atrium, not an enclosed room. This detail is crucial for understanding the public or semi-public nature of the space where Peter was. It implies a place where various people associated with the high priest's household or the Sanhedrin's proceedings would gather, making Peter's attempt to blend in inherently risky due to the open environment.
* **sat down (Greek, _káthēmai'_):** Implies a settled, deliberate action of taking a seat. Peter's act of sitting "among them" suggests a desire to appear inconspicuous, to blend in with the crowd of guards and servants. However, this very act of settling in makes him part of the group, increasing his exposure and the likelihood of being recognized and challenged, rather than allowing him to remain a detached observer.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall":** This clause establishes the physical setting and the practical action taken by those present. The "hall" (courtyard) is the location, and the kindling of a fire indicates the coldness of the night and the communal nature of the gathering. This fire, intended for warmth, inadvertently creates the conditions for Peter's exposure.
* **"and were set down together":** This phrase describes the collective action of the group already present. They had gathered around the fire, seeking comfort and companionship in the late hours. This detail emphasizes the established social dynamic that Peter was entering, a group already settled and interacting.
* **"Peter sat down among them":** This final clause focuses on Peter's specific action and his chosen proximity. Having followed "at a distance" ([Luke 22:54](/luke/22-54 "Luke 22:54 - Peter Follows from Afar")), Peter now deliberately chooses to join the very people associated with Jesus' arrest and trial. His act of sitting "among them" signifies his attempt to blend in, but also places him in direct relational and physical proximity to those who would soon challenge his identity as a follower of Jesus.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 22:55 employs several potent literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as Peter's decision to sit "among them" by the fire directly sets the stage for his three denials, fulfilling Jesus' earlier prophecy. The seemingly mundane act of seeking warmth becomes a catalyst for a profound spiritual failure. There is also a strong element of **Irony**: the fire, intended to provide comfort and warmth, instead becomes a source of exposure and discomfort for Peter, illuminating his presence and drawing attention to him at the most vulnerable moment. Furthermore, the **Symbolism** of the fire itself is multifaceted: it represents both physical warmth and the spiritual "heat" of the moment—the intense pressure and scrutiny Peter is about to face. The light from the fire, while practical, also symbolizes the revelation of truth and identity, as Peter's true allegiance is about to be put to the test.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 22:55 is a poignant illustration of the human propensity to falter under pressure, even for those with the deepest devotion. Peter's decision to sit among Jesus' accusers, while seemingly a practical choice for warmth, reveals a deeper spiritual vulnerability—a desire for self-preservation that momentarily eclipses his courageous commitment to Christ. This moment underscores the theological truth that even the strongest believers are susceptible to temptation and fear when they rely on their own strength rather than divine grace. It highlights the subtle dangers of compromising environments and the ease with which one can slip from following "at a distance" to being "among" those hostile to Christ, setting the stage for a profound failure that ultimately leads to repentance and restoration.

* [Matthew 26:69-75](/matthew/26-69-75 "Matthew 26:69-75 - Peter's Denials")
* [Mark 14:66-72](/mark/14-66-72 "Mark 14:66-72 - Peter's Denials")
* [John 18:15-18](/john/18-15-18 "John 18:15-18 - Peter Enters the Courtyard")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 22:55 serves as a powerful cautionary tale for believers across all ages. Peter's initial desire to be close to Jesus, even "at a distance," is commendable, but his subsequent choice to sit "among them" by the fire reveals a critical lapse in judgment. This moment challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we, in our desire for comfort, acceptance, or safety, placing ourselves in environments or associations that subtly compromise our commitment to Christ? Do we recognize the insidious nature of fear and self-preservation, which can lead us to deny our faith not always through explicit words, but through our actions and associations? This verse calls for vigilance, self-awareness of our inherent weaknesses, and an unwavering reliance on God's strength rather than our own resolve, especially when the pressures of the world seek to draw us away from our allegiance to Christ. It reminds us that true discipleship often requires a willingness to stand apart, even when it means discomfort or isolation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be "sitting among them" in my own life, subtly compromising my faith or values for comfort or acceptance?**
* **How does Peter's vulnerability in this moment prompt me to consider my own areas of weakness or fear that could lead to spiritual compromise?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure I am relying on God's strength and wisdom, rather than my own, when facing situations that test my commitment to Christ?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to be more discerning about the environments and influences I allow into my life?**

### FAQ
**Why did Peter sit among them, given the danger?**

Answer: Peter's decision to sit among the guards and servants by the fire was likely a complex mix of practical necessity and human weakness. The night was cold, so seeking warmth was natural. However, having followed Jesus "at a distance" ([Luke 22:54](/luke/22-54 "Luke 22:54 - Peter Follows from Afar")), Peter was attempting to remain inconspicuous while still being close enough to observe the proceedings involving Jesus. His act of sitting "among them" was an attempt to blend in and avoid drawing attention to himself as a disciple of the accused. Yet, this very act of seeking comfort and anonymity placed him directly in the environment where his identity would be challenged, revealing his vulnerability to fear and self-preservation, ultimately leading to his denials.

**What is the significance of the fire in this passage?**

Answer: The fire in [Luke 22:55](/luke/22-55 "Luke 22:55 - Peter at the Fire") holds both practical and symbolic significance. Practically, it provided warmth on a cold night, explaining why people, including Peter, gathered around it. Symbolically, however, the fire becomes a focal point that illuminates Peter's presence, making him visible and identifiable to those who would question him. It represents the "heat" of the moment—the intense pressure and scrutiny Peter is about to face. The light from the fire, while offering physical comfort, ironically serves to expose Peter's hidden presence, setting the stage for his public denials and the subsequent exposure of his human frailty.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 22:55, though depicting Peter's human weakness, ultimately points to the profound grace and redemptive work of Christ. Peter's failure to stand firm in the face of temptation, despite his earlier bold declarations, highlights the universal need for a Savior who perfectly fulfills righteousness where humanity falls short. Even as Peter sits among his Lord's accusers, Jesus is undergoing His own trial, enduring the accusations and suffering for the very sins Peter (and all humanity) would commit. The scene foreshadows not only Peter's denial but also his bitter repentance ([Luke 22:61-62](/luke/22-61-62 "Luke 22:61-62 - Peter's Bitter Tears")), which is made possible by Christ's intercession for him ([Luke 22:31-32](/luke/22-31-32 "Luke 22:31-32 - Jesus Prays for Peter")). Ultimately, Peter's restoration, beautifully recounted in [John 21:15-19](/john/21-15-19 "John 21:15-19 - Jesus Restores Peter"), demonstrates that Christ's love and forgiveness are greater than any human failure. This passage, therefore, underscores the necessity of Christ's perfect sacrifice to cover our imperfections and His compassionate High Priestly work to sustain us even when we falter, ensuring that our ultimate hope rests not in our own strength, but in His unfailing grace.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 6:15

And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

2 Corinthians 6:17

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,

John 18:25

And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also [one] of his disciples? He denied [it], and said, I am not.

John 18:27

Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crew.

Psalms 28:3

Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief [is] in their hearts.

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,

Psalms 1:1

¶ Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.