Mark 14:66-68

Peter’s presence was a testimony to His love for Jesus. Unfortunately his love could not stand the test of fear. [Note: Wessel, p. 771.] The girl’s description of Jesus ("that Nazarene, Jesus") made it clear that Peter was among enemies. She had probably seen Peter with Jesus in the temple or the city during that week. Peter denied being one of Jesus’ disciples "using the form common in rabbinical law for a formal, legal denial." [Note: Lane, p. 542.] Peter then left the warmth and light of the fire in the center of the courtyard and sought refuge in the shadows of the archway that led into the street.

Some later manuscripts add "and a cock crowed" at the end of Mark 14:68. Probably scribes added these words in view of Jesus’ prediction in Mark 14:30 and the fulfillment in Mark 14:72.