Matthew 26:57 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58 But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.
As Christ was humiliated, and handcuffed in the public square, Peter sought to distance himself from Christ somewhat for he feared an association with Jesus, would draw him into an uncomfortable position, in the eyes of the popular majority. And as satan studied his tendency, he went to work, using agents to cause Peter’s fall.
The true soldier of the cross in our day must be very careful of aligning himself / herself with the popular, for when it comes down to the wire, they could turn and rend you, like they did with Christ. When Jesus was healing all the diseases of the people, and was providing M.R.E s, He was no doubt the favorite and the disciples pressed closely about Him, seeking the seat closest to Him.
But when the tide of popularity turned negative and following Jesus became a liability, the disciples were at a loss as to how they should deal with these new unfavorable ratings. As it is currently, it doesn’t cost us here in America, anything, or very little, to follow Christ, that is why any, and everyone can claim to be a Christian, without fear of retribution, and heckling and scorn.
Matthew 26:55 In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me. 56 But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!