Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 14:31

"But he spake exceedingly vehemently, If I must die with thee, I will not deny thee. And in like manner also said they all." — Mark 14:31 (ASV)

Jesus’ prediction of failure on the part of the disciples was too much for Peter to accept, and he told Jesus that. But Jesus’ reply emphasized the absolute certainty of Peter’s denial. Not only did he use the “I tell you the truth” formula, but he also used the emphatic “today—yes, tonight.” The denial was not only certain, it was imminent; and it would be in spite of being warned twice by a rooster crowing.

Jesus’ explicit description of Peter’s forthcoming denial was not convincing to him. He insisted on his willingness even to die with Jesus rather than deny him. But Peter did not know how weak he really was—nor did the rest of the disciples, for they quickly chimed in with him to declare their allegiance (cf. 14:50, 71–72).