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.

JOHN 18:15KJV
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John 18:15 (KJV)

What does John 18:15 mean?

John 18:15 describes how Simon Peter and another disciple followed Jesus after his arrest, with the other disciple being known to the high priest and able to enter the high priest’s residence with Jesus. This sets the scene for the events that unfold during Jesus’ trial before the Jewish authorities.

In this verse, the focus is on two disciples—Simon Peter and an unnamed “other disciple”—who continue to follow Jesus even after his arrest in the garden. The “other disciple” is recognized by the high priest, which allows him to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus, while Peter remains outside at first. This detail leads directly into the story of Peter’s denial and shows the different experiences of Jesus’ followers during his trial.

The Greek behind John 18:15

  • The word μαθητής (mathētēs, “disciple”) is used twice here, emphasizing that both Peter and the unnamed follower are close associates of Jesus, not just casual observers.
  • The Greek word γνωστός (gnōstos, “known”) highlights that the other disciple had some kind of relationship or recognition with the high priest, which is why he could enter the residence. This detail explains how he gained access to a place most followers could not go.
  • The term αὐλή (aulē, “palace” or “courtyard”) refers to the enclosed area of the high priest’s house, indicating that Jesus was taken to a private, official location for questioning, not just a public space.

Why John 18:15 matters

  • John 18:15 clarifies why Peter was outside the high priest’s residence and needed help to get inside, which sets up the narrative for his later denial of Jesus.
  • The mention of the “other disciple” being known to the high priest has led to much discussion about his identity, but the verse itself simply shows that not all of Jesus’ followers were equally at risk or equally unknown to the authorities.
  • This verse connects the arrest of Jesus to the unfolding events of his trial, showing how his closest followers responded under pressure and fear.

Where else these words appear

“with” Greek G4897 · used in 2 verses

  • John 6:22 The day following, when the people which stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was none other boat there, save that one whereinto his disciples were entered, and that Jesus went not with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples were gone away alone;

“palace” Greek G833 · used in 12 verses

  • 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,
  • 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.
  • Luke 22:55 And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them.

“known” Greek G1110 · used in 15 verses

  • Luke 2:44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.
  • Acts 2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:
  • Acts 15:18 Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.

“Simon” Greek G4613 · used in 70 verses

  • Matthew 4:18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
  • Luke 5:8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
  • John 18:10 Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.