Matthew 26:57-58 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.… I. WHAT INDUCED THE APOSTLE TO FOLLOW JESUS AFAR OF. It was fear of men, of the evil which might fall upon him. He might persuade himself that he could render no help to his Master. Compare the attachment of Ruth to Naomi. The apostle had some affection for Christ, or he would not have followed at all. The only safety is in following fully. Thus Peter's self-confidence was rebuked. II. WHO WERE THE COMPANIONS WITH WHOM THE APOSTLE SAT DOWN? AND WHAT WAS HIS DANGER IN DOING SO? He was in company hostile to Jesus, but did not resent their hostility. He did not side with his Lord. "Evil communications corrupt good manners." There was a gradual descent in the fall of the apostle. He was first alarmed, and consulted his safety by flight; then he followed Jesus, but afar off; then he entered into the palace; then he sat down among the servants; then he listened without rebuke to their scoffs against Jesus; then he denied that he was a disciple; then he denied with oaths and curses. One step led to another. III. WHAT WAS THE APOSTLE'S STATE OF MIND WHEN HE WENT INTO THE HIGH PRIEST'S PALACE? AND HOW DID THIS EXPOSE HIM TO THE DANGER OF FALLING UNDER TEMPTATION? He went in to see the end. Peter was not resolved how he would act. He might think that Christ would avow Himself; put forth His omnipotent power; or that he would acknowledge Jesus. He was in a state of mind easily to be overcome by temptation. He wanted to make his attachment for Christ such as to secure his own safety. (T. Stark.) Parallel Verses KJV: And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. |
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