Matthew Henry Commentary John 13:36-38

"Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered, Whither I go, thou canst not follow now; but thou shalt follow afterwards. Peter saith unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee even now? I will lay down my life for thee. Jesus answereth, Wilt thou lay down thy life for me? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice." — John 13:36-38 (ASV)

What Christ had said concerning brotherly love, Peter overlooked, but spoke of that which Christ had kept hidden from them. It is common to be more eager to know about secret things, which belong to God alone, than about things revealed, which belong to us and our children; to be more desirous to have our curiosity gratified than our consciences directed; to know what is done in heaven than what we may do to get there.

How quickly discussion about what is plain and edifying is dropped, while a doubtful dispute runs on into an endless strife of words! We are apt to be offended when told we cannot do this or that, whereas, without Christ we can do nothing. Christ knows us better than we know ourselves, and has many ways of revealing his loved ones to themselves, and he will hide pride from them.

May we strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, to love one another with a pure heart fervently, and to walk humbly with our God.