Mark 14:71
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 14:71
71 But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.
Chapter Context
Mark 14 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, salvation, prayer. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-72: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 14:71
71 But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.
Analysis
Peter's third denial: 'he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak' (ἤρξατο ἀναθεματίζειν καὶ ὀμνύναι ὅτι Οὐκ οἶδα τὸν ἄνθρωπον τοῦτον ὃν λέγετε). The verbs 'curse' (anathematizein, ἀναθεματίζειν, invoking curses on himself) and 'swear' (omnynai, ὀμνύναι, taking oaths) show escalating vehemence. Peter called down curses to prove he didn't know Jesus—the ultimate denial. This fulfilled Jesus' prediction (v. 30). The phrase 'this man' (ton anthrōpon touton, τὸν ἄνθρωπον τοῦτον) distanced Peter from Jesus—not 'my Lord' but 'this man.' Peter's fall from bold confession ('Thou art the Christ,' Mark 8:29) to cursing denial shows human weakness. Yet Jesus' earlier prayer (Luke 22:32, 'I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not') sustained him. Peter wept bitterly (v. 72), repented, and was restored (John 21:15-19).
Historical Context
Peter's three denials occurred in high priest's courtyard during Jesus' trial. The progression: first denial to servant girl (vv. 66-68), second to others (v. 69-70), third with curses and oaths (v. 71). Luke records Jesus looking at Peter after the denial (Luke 22:61), prompting bitter weeping. Peter's restoration occurred after resurrection when Jesus three times asked 'Lovest thou me?' (John 21:15-17), reversing three denials. Early church knew of Peter's denial—Mark (likely writing Peter's testimony) didn't hide it, showing honest acknowledgment of sin. Peter's failure and restoration became paradigm for Christian experience: genuine believers can fall grievously yet are sustained by Christ's intercession and grace. Peter later wrote: 'The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly' (2 Peter 2:9)—likely reflecting on personal experience.
Reflection
- What does Peter's progression from confident boasting to cursing denial teach about human weakness and need for divine sustaining grace?
- How does Peter's restoration after denial demonstrate that genuine saving faith perseveres despite grievous falls?