Simon Peter was interrupted three times while speaking: by the Father (Mt. 17:5); by the Son (Lk. 22:60); and by the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:44). There are lessons for us in these three accounts of divine Persons cutting him off in mid-speech.

Today’s text is the record of an exceedingly solemn occasion in the life of Peter, one that he surely never forgot, and a huge turning point in his life. He denied the Lord Jesus three times before men. This history proved to be instructive to Simon Peter’s personal spiritual growth, but it is for us as well if we take heed. If one who was so devoted to Christ, and who loved Him so dearly, could betray Him when under pressure or in temptation, then we can too. “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Cor. 10:12).

The Lord had warned Peter that this would happen. Before the crowing of the rooster, he would deny Christ three times. But there was an encouraging word with the warning: “I have prayed for you,” and he would be restored (Lk. 22:31–34). Sadly, Peter’s response to this warning was, “I am ready.” These three simple words were the key to Simon’s fall. No, he was not ready. And neither are we if we are not distrusting self, and not praying (v. 46). It was on this very occasion Christ had said, “the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mt. 26:41). While “he was still speaking” Peter was interrupted by the crowing of the rooster, and the spell of self-deception was broken. “Peter remembered the word of the Lord.” The Son of God used this lowly creature to remind Peter of His words. How gracious of the Lord Jesus, the restorer of our souls!