Matthew Henry Commentary Mark 14:66-72

"And as Peter was beneath in the court, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest; and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and saith, Thou also wast with the Nazarene, [even] Jesus. But he denied, saying, I neither know, nor understand what thou sayest: and he went out into the porch; and the cock crew. And the maid saw him, and began again to say to them that stood by, This is [one] of them. But he again denied it. And after a little while again they that stood by said to Peter, of a truth thou art [one] of them; for thou art a Galilaean. But he began to curse, and to swear, I know not this man of whom ye speak. And straightway the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word, how that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept." — Mark 14:66-72 (ASV)

Peter's denial of Christ began with keeping his distance from him. Those who are shy of godliness are well on their way to denying Christ.

Those who think it dangerous to be in the company of Christ's disciples, because from there they may be drawn into suffering for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in the company of his enemies, because there they may be drawn into sinning against him.

When Christ was admired and crowds flocked to him, Peter readily acknowledged him; but he would acknowledge no relationship to him now that he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy.

Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him who has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.