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John 18:16

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But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter.

But {G1161} Peter {G4074} stood {G2476} at {G4314} the door {G2374} without {G1854}. Then {G3767} went out {G1831} that other {G243} disciple {G3101}, which {G3739} was {G2258} known {G1110} unto the high priest {G749}, and {G2532} spake {G2036} unto her that kept the door {G2377}, and {G2532} brought in {G1521} Peter {G4074}.

but Kefa stood outside by the gate. So the other talmid, the one known to the cohen hagadol, went back out and spoke to the woman on duty at the gate, then brought Kefa inside.

But Peter stood outside at the door. Then the disciple who was known to the high priest went out and spoke to the doorkeeper, and brought Peter in.

but Peter was standing at the door without. So the other disciple, who was known unto the high priest, went out and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter.

Commentary

John 18:16 describes a pivotal moment during Jesus' arrest and initial interrogation, focusing on the actions of two of His disciples, Simon Peter and the unnamed "other disciple," traditionally understood to be John himself.

Context

This verse takes place immediately after Jesus has been arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane and led to the house of Annas, the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the current high priest. Simon Peter and "that other disciple" have followed at a distance, attempting to witness what would happen to their Master. While the other disciple, who was known to the high priest's household, gained immediate entry into the courtyard, Peter was left outside, emphasizing his initial disadvantage and setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow.

Key Themes

  • Access and Influence: The verse highlights the significance of personal connections in ancient society. The "other disciple's" familiarity with the high priest's household granted him access that Peter lacked, underscoring how earthly relationships can open doors, even into places of spiritual peril.
  • Human Frailty and Loyalty: Peter's presence at the door, despite the danger, demonstrates a conflicted loyalty and desire to be near Jesus. However, his initial exclusion and subsequent entry set the immediate scene for his impending denials of Jesus, revealing the vulnerability of human resolve under pressure.
  • Eyewitness Account: The subtle reference to "that other disciple," widely believed to be the Apostle John (as seen in other passages like John 21:20), authenticates the Gospel's narrative as an eyewitness account. His ability to move freely within the high priest's courtyard provides unique insights into the events.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "known unto the high priest" (Greek: gnostos) suggests more than a casual acquaintance. It implies a degree of familiarity or a recognized relationship that allowed the other disciple to move within the high priest's circles, explaining why he was able to "go out" and speak with the doorkeeper effectively.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that even devoted followers can find themselves in challenging positions, where their faith is tested. Peter's initial exclusion and subsequent entry into the courtyard, facilitated by another, foreshadow his spiritual stumble. It reminds us of the importance of spiritual discernment and the potential for weakness even in those who are zealous for the Lord. Ultimately, it underscores that God's plan unfolds even amidst human failings and the complex interactions of His servants.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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

  • Mark 14:66 (3 votes)

    ¶ And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:

  • Mark 14:68 (3 votes)

    But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.

  • Matthew 26:69 (3 votes)

    ¶ Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.

  • Luke 22:55 (3 votes)

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

  • Luke 22:57 (3 votes)

    And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not.