Matthew 26:34

KJV

Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

KJV (with Strong's)

Jesus {G2424} said {G5346} unto him {G846}, Verily {G281} I say {G3004} unto thee {G4671}, That {G3754} this {G1722}{G5026} night {G3571}, before {G4250} the cock {G220} crow {G5455}, thou shalt deny {G533} me {G3165} thrice {G5151}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua said to him, "Yes! I tell you that tonight before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!"

Berean Standard Bible

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus declared, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.”

American Standard Version

Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, that this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In this poignant moment recorded, Jesus delivers a direct and sobering prophecy to Peter, one of His most devoted disciples, immediately following Peter's fervent declaration of unwavering loyalty. This verse serves as a pivotal revelation, simultaneously underscoring Jesus' profound divine foreknowledge and exposing the inherent fragility of human resolve, even in the face of sincere devotion. It sets the stage for a dramatic and painful fulfillment, highlighting the stark contrast between human self-assurance and divine certainty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This prophecy is uttered during the intimate and solemn hours following the [Last Supper](/matthew/26-26 "Matthew 26:26-29 - Institution of the Lord's Supper"), as Jesus and His disciples are making their way from the upper room to the Mount of Olives, en route to the Garden of Gethsemane. Just moments before, Jesus had foretold that all of them would stumble and be offended because of Him that very night, citing the prophecy from [Zechariah 13:7](/zechariah/13-7 "Zechariah 13:7 - The Shepherd Struck"). In response, Peter, known for his impetuous zeal and unwavering confidence, had boldly declared that even if all others deserted Jesus, he himself would never falter ([Matthew 26:33](/matthew/26-33 "Matthew 26:33 - Peter's Boastful Declaration")). Jesus' immediate and precise reply in [Matthew 26:34](/matthew/26-34 "Matthew 26:34 - Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial") directly confronts Peter's overconfidence, setting the stage for a deeply personal and painful failure that would unfold within hours. This exchange underscores the tension between Peter's sincere but ultimately insufficient human will and the divine, certain plan of God.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this prophecy is the Mount of Olives, a significant location frequently visited by Jesus and His disciples, offering a view of Jerusalem. The phrase "before the cock crow" carries both a literal and a temporal significance. In Roman military timekeeping, the night was divided into four watches, with the third watch (roughly 12 AM to 3 AM) being known as the "gallacinium" or "cockcrowing." This designation was widely understood, making Jesus' prediction a specific timeframe. Additionally, the literal crowing of a rooster would serve as an unmistakable and public auditory signal, marking the precise fulfillment of the prophecy. This detail would have been particularly jarring for Peter, serving as a stark reminder of his failure. The pressure on Jesus' disciples was immense; they were facing the imminent arrest and execution of their beloved teacher, a situation that would test the loyalty and courage of even the most devoted followers.

* **Key Themes:** [Matthew 26:34](/matthew/26-34 "Matthew 26:34 - Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Matthew's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Foreknowledge and Sovereignty**. Jesus' ability to predict Peter's exact actions—three denials before a specific event—demonstrates His omniscience and divine authority over future events, reinforcing His claim as the Son of God. Secondly, the verse highlights **Human Frailty and Overconfidence**. It starkly contrasts Peter's sincere but ultimately misplaced self-assurance with the reality of his human weakness when confronted with intense pressure and fear. This serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that even the most fervent followers can stumble and fall, echoing warnings found elsewhere, such as in [1 Corinthians 10:12](/1_corinthians/10-12 "1 Corinthians 10:12 - Warning Against Overconfidence"). Finally, the passage contributes to the theme of **Prophetic Fulfillment**. Jesus' prediction sets the stage for a dramatic and painful event that is meticulously recorded later in the chapter ([Matthew 26:69-75](/matthew/26-69-75 "Matthew 26:69-75 - Peter Denies Jesus")), providing a clear and undeniable example of His words being fulfilled precisely as foretold, thereby validating His divine authority and the truthfulness of His message.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Verily (Greek, _amḗn'_):** From G281, meaning "firm" or "trustworthy," used adverbially to mean "surely" or "so be it." In this context, Jesus uses "Verily" (Amen) to introduce a solemn, authoritative, and absolutely certain declaration. It underscores the truthfulness and inevitability of what He is about to say, emphasizing that His words are not mere speculation but divine revelation of a future certainty.
* **deny (Greek, _aparnéomai'_):** From G533, meaning "to deny utterly," "disown," or "abstain." This word implies a complete disavowal or rejection. Jesus' use of this term indicates that Peter's actions will be a full repudiation of his association with Christ, not merely a casual oversight or a moment of hesitation. It signifies a profound act of renunciation under pressure.
* **cock crow (Greek, _aléktōr'_ G220, _phōnéō'_ G5455):** The word "cock" (G220, _aléktōr_) refers to a male fowl or rooster, while "crow" (G5455, _phōnéō_) means to emit a sound, specifically here, the crowing of a rooster. This phrase serves as a precise temporal marker, referring both to the third watch of the night (the "cockcrowing" watch, roughly 12 AM to 3 AM) and the literal sound of a rooster. The combination of these two words provides a vivid, undeniable, and publicly audible sign that would confirm the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy to Peter.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee,"**: This opening phrase establishes the speaker (Jesus) and the recipient (Peter, "him"). The use of "Verily I say unto thee" (Greek: _Amēn legō soi_) is a characteristic authoritative declaration of Jesus, signaling that what follows is of utmost importance and absolute truth. It is a direct, personal pronouncement from the Lord to His disciple, leaving no room for doubt about the certainty of the impending event.
* **"That this night, before the cock crow,"**: This clause provides the precise timeframe for Peter's denial. "This night" emphasizes the immediacy of the event, occurring within the very hours following the Last Supper and preceding Jesus' crucifixion. The phrase "before the cock crow" serves as a specific, undeniable temporal marker, pointing to the early hours of the morning, before the rooster's first crow, or before the end of the "cockcrowing" watch of the night. This detail makes the prophecy incredibly specific and its fulfillment unmistakable.
* **"thou shalt deny me thrice."**: This is the core of the prophecy, detailing the specific action Peter will take and its frequency. "Thou shalt deny me" directly contradicts Peter's earlier boast of unwavering loyalty, revealing his impending failure. The word "deny" (Greek: _aparnéomai_) signifies a complete disavowal or renunciation. The addition of "thrice" (three times) makes the prediction even more precise and devastating, indicating a repeated and public repudiation of his association with Jesus. This triple denial stands in stark contrast to Peter's triple affirmation of love for Jesus after the resurrection ([John 21:15-17](/john/21-15-17 "John 21:15-17 - Jesus Restores Peter")).

#### Literary Devices
[Matthew 26:34](/matthew/26-34 "Matthew 26:34 - Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial") is rich with literary techniques that amplify its theological and narrative impact. The most prominent device is **Prophecy**, where Jesus foretells a future event with absolute precision, demonstrating His divine omniscience and authority. This prophecy also functions as **Foreshadowing**, building dramatic tension and preparing the reader for the inevitable and painful scene of Peter's denial later in the chapter ([Matthew 26:69-75](/matthew/26-69-75 "Matthew 26:69-75 - Peter Denies Jesus")). There is a profound sense of **Irony** present: Peter, who just moments before declared his readiness to die for Jesus, is told he will deny Him three times. This highlights the stark contrast between human self-assurance and the reality of human weakness under pressure. Furthermore, the "cock crow" functions as a potent **Symbolism** and a **Motif**. It is not merely a literal sound but a symbolic marker of Peter's failure and a poignant reminder of Jesus' prophetic word. The repeated crowing (as implied by the later fulfillment) serves as an auditory trigger for Peter's repentance and deep remorse.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 26:34 is a profound theological statement on the nature of divine foreknowledge, human frailty, and the certainty of God's plan. Jesus' precise prediction of Peter's denial underscores His absolute sovereignty over all events, even the failures of His closest disciples. It reveals that God's redemptive plan is not thwarted by human weakness but accounts for it, ultimately demonstrating His grace and power. This passage also serves as a crucial reminder that genuine faith, while sincere, can be tested to its limits, and self-confidence can be a dangerous illusion when faced with spiritual warfare and intense pressure. Peter's fall, though painful, ultimately becomes a testament to God's restorative grace, as seen in his later repentance and restoration.

Other Gospel accounts also record this significant prophecy, emphasizing its importance in the early Christian narrative:
* [Mark 14:30](/mark/14-30 "Mark 14:30 - Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial")
* [Luke 22:34](/luke/22-34 "Luke 22:34 - Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial")
* [John 13:38](/john/13-38 "John 13:38 - Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 26:34 offers timeless lessons for believers today, serving as both a cautionary tale and a source of profound hope. Peter's overconfident boast, swiftly followed by Jesus' precise prophecy of his failure, is a powerful reminder to guard against spiritual arrogance and to cultivate genuine humility. It teaches us that our strength and faithfulness are ultimately derived from God, not from our own resolve. When faced with trials, it is easy to overestimate our own spiritual fortitude and underestimate the subtle pressures that can lead to compromise or denial of our faith. This verse acknowledges the reality of human imperfection and the painful truth that even devoted followers of Christ can stumble and fall. However, the broader narrative of Peter's life, culminating in his profound repentance and subsequent restoration by Jesus, offers immense hope. Our failures, even significant ones, do not have to define us or be the end of our spiritual journey. Instead, they can become catalysts for deeper reliance on God's grace, leading to genuine repentance and a renewed commitment to Christ. The reliability of Jesus' prophetic word, demonstrated in this verse, also assures us of the trustworthiness of all His promises and His unwavering faithfulness, even when we falter.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in my life might I be relying on my own strength or overconfidence instead of fully trusting in God's power and grace?**
* **How does Peter's denial and subsequent restoration inform my understanding of forgiveness and second chances in my own spiritual walk?**
* **What specific pressures or fears might lead me to "deny" Christ, either overtly or subtly, in my daily life?**
* **How does Jesus' perfect foreknowledge in this passage strengthen my faith in His divine authority and the certainty of His Word?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus predict Peter's denial so specifically?**

Answer: Jesus predicted Peter's denial with such specificity—three times before the cock crow—for several profound reasons. Firstly, it served as undeniable proof of His divine omniscience and foreknowledge. Jesus knew not only Peter's heart but also the precise details of future events, reinforcing His claim as the Son of God. Secondly, it was a crucial lesson for Peter himself and for all future disciples. It exposed the danger of overconfidence and self-reliance, highlighting that even the most zealous followers are susceptible to human weakness under pressure. This painful experience would humble Peter and prepare him for his future leadership role, teaching him deep dependence on Christ rather than self. Finally, the prediction and its fulfillment were part of God's sovereign plan, demonstrating that even human failure can be incorporated into His redemptive purposes, ultimately leading to restoration and a deeper understanding of grace. The fulfillment also validated Jesus' words for the other disciples and for those who would later read the Gospel accounts, confirming the truth of His prophetic ministry, as seen in [Matthew 26:69-75](/matthew/26-69-75 "Matthew 26:69-75 - Peter Denies Jesus").

**What is the significance of "before the cock crow"?**

Answer: The phrase "before the cock crow" holds both literal and symbolic significance. Literally, it refers to the early hours of the morning, specifically before a rooster's first crow, which typically occurs around dawn. This precise detail made the fulfillment of the prophecy unmistakable for Peter. Culturally, it also referred to the third watch of the night in Roman timekeeping, known as the "gallacinium" or "cockcrowing" (roughly between 12 AM and 3 AM). This dual meaning provided a specific temporal marker for the event. Symbolically, the crowing of the cock became an auditory trigger for Peter, a jarring sound that would instantly remind him of Jesus' prophetic words and his own devastating failure. It served as a powerful, public, and undeniable sign of his denial, leading to his profound remorse and repentance, as recounted in [Matthew 26:75](/matthew/26-75 "Matthew 26:75 - Peter Weeps Bitterly").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 26:34, while detailing Peter's impending failure, ultimately magnifies the person and work of Jesus Christ. His divine foreknowledge of Peter's denial is a powerful testament to His deity, demonstrating that He is not merely a prophet but God incarnate, who knows all things, even the hidden weaknesses of His closest disciples. This foreknowledge is not passive; it is accompanied by Christ's intercession. In [Luke 22:31-32](/luke/22-31-32 "Luke 22:31-32 - Jesus Prays for Peter"), Jesus tells Peter that Satan has desired to sift him like wheat, but He has prayed for him, "that your faith may not fail." This reveals Christ's active, compassionate High Priestly work, interceding for His own even before their fall. Peter's denial, therefore, becomes a profound illustration of human weakness met by divine grace. It sets the stage for Peter's brokenness and subsequent restoration, which is a powerful picture of Christ's redemptive love and forgiveness. After His resurrection, Jesus specifically seeks out Peter, not to condemn him, but to restore him through a threefold affirmation of love ([John 21:15-17](/john/21-15-17 "John 21:15-17 - Jesus Restores Peter")), mirroring his threefold denial. Thus, Peter's failure and restoration become a living parable of the Gospel itself: humanity's inability to perfectly obey, met by Christ's perfect sacrifice, intercession, and boundless grace, leading to repentance, forgiveness, and renewed purpose in Him. It underscores that our hope is not in our own strength, but in the unfailing love and power of the risen Christ.

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

John 13:38

Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice.

Luke 22:34

And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.

Matthew 26:75

And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

Mark 14:30

And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, [even] in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.

Mark 14:31

But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.