New Testament · Gospel

John 18:15

Arrested in the Garden

Now Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he also went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. John 18:15 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

John 18:15, in plain English

Peter and another disciple (likely John) follow Jesus. The other disciple knows the high priest and gets them into the courtyard.

Why it's here

Peter's love drives him to follow, even into danger. But being close to the fire will soon test his courage in ways he never expected.

Who's speaking

John narrates the disciples following Jesus.

Where it sits in the story

Peter and John follow Jesus despite the danger. John's connections get them inside, but being in the courtyard will put Peter face-to-face with questions he's not ready to answer.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Peter and 'another disciple,' known to the high priest, follow Jesus into the courtyard, with the other disciple's connection granting them access.

Language and setting

The 'other disciple' is widely identified as John himself. His acquaintance with the high priest's household (possibly through family trade connections) enables both disciples to enter the courtyard where the informal trial occurs.

Voice

The narrator describes Peter and the other disciple following Jesus.

Significance

Two disciples follow Jesus into danger. The unnamed disciple's social connections gain them entry to the high priest's courtyard, setting the stage for Peter's upcoming denials.

In context

John 18:13–17

13They brought Him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year.

14Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it would be better if one man died for the people.

15Now Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he also went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest.

16But Peter stood outside at the door. Then the disciple who was known to the high priest went out and spoke to the doorkeeper, and brought Peter in.

17At this, the servant girl watching the door said to Peter, “Aren’t you also one of this man’s disciples?”

Read all of John 18 — Judas arrives with torches and soldiers. Jesus steps forward and identifies himself, and the entire cohort falls to the ground.

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