On the same night, two men are put on trial. One stands before the highest court and tells the truth. The other stands near a fire and denies he even knows it. In Mark 14:53–72, the Gospel writer weaves together the stories of Jesus and Peter, not just to contrast their responses, but to reveal a deeper truth of grace. The Judge is condemned. The failure walks free. This passage doesn’t simply expose human weakness, it highlights the hope that comes when the Faithful One stands in the place of the fallen. We may still be walking through the painful events that lead to Christ’s death, but at each stop along the way, we see the gospel, and fresh reasons for joy in Christ.

This week’s worship guide