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Luke 22:61

And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

Luke 22:61 · King James Version

Meaning

When Jesus turned and looked at Peter after he denied knowing Him, it was a moment of great significance. This gaze from the Lord carried deep meaning and penetrated Peter's soul. In that moment, Peter realized the weight of his actions and the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy. The look of compassion and forgiveness in Jesus' eyes must have been overwhelming for Peter, as he remembered how Jesus had foretold that he would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed. This powerful moment was a reminder of the love and mercy of Jesus, despite Peter's shortcomings. It also served as a pivotal moment in Peter's life, leading to his eventual repentance and restoration in his relationship with Jesus. This verse captures the complexity of human weakness and divine grace, highlighting the profound impact of Jesus' words and actions on His disciples.

Theological Overview

One key theological interpretation of this verse is the concept of God's omniscience and how He knows our weaknesses and failures even before they happen. In this passage, Jesus had predicted that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed, and indeed, it came to pass. However, what is striking is the moment when Peter made eye contact with Jesus after the third denial. This moment of connection was not just a physical gaze but also a deep spiritual encounter where Peter was reminded of Jesus' words. This illustrates God's grace and forgiveness as He still looked upon Peter despite his shortcomings. It serves as a powerful reminder that even in our moments of weakness, God is there, ready to forgive and restore us.

Luke 22:61 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how that he said unto him, Before the cock crow this day thou shalt deny me thrice.

World English Bible

The Lord turned, and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the Lord’s word, how he said to him, “Before the rooster crows you will deny me three times.”

Douay-Rheims

And the Lord turning looked on Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, as he had said: Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny thrice.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then the Lord turned backe, and looked vpon Peter: and Peter remembred the worde of the Lord, how he had said vnto him, Before the cocke crowe, thou shalt denie me thrise.