Luke 22:57 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:57 mean?

Luke 22:57 shows Peter denying any connection to Jesus, telling a woman that he does not know Him. This is the first of Peter’s three denials, happening while Jesus is being questioned after His arrest.

Peter is speaking to a servant girl in the courtyard outside the high priest’s house, where Jesus has been taken. The pressure and fear of being associated with Jesus lead Peter to openly deny even knowing Him. This moment is significant because Jesus had earlier predicted that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed.

The Greek behind Luke 22:57

• ἠρνήσατο (ērnēsato, "denied"): This word means to strongly reject or disown, not just a casual denial. Peter is making a clear and forceful statement that he has no association with Jesus.
• οἶδα (oida, "know"): This Greek word often means to know personally or to be acquainted with someone. Peter is not just saying he doesn’t recognize Jesus, but that he has no relationship or connection to Him.
• γυνή (gynē, "Woman"): This is a polite but direct way to address the servant girl, showing Peter’s attempt to distance himself in a tense situation.

Why Luke 22:57 matters

• Luke 22:57 highlights the pressure and fear that can lead even close followers to deny their connections or beliefs when threatened.
• This verse fulfills Jesus’ earlier prediction about Peter’s denial, showing the accuracy of Jesus’ words and the weakness of even His most devoted disciples.
• The verse sets up the emotional weight of Peter’s later remorse and repentance, which is a key part of Luke’s account of the events surrounding Jesus’ trial.