ACC ~ Mark 14 v72b

ON NOT HIDING PETER’S FAULTS

CHRYSOSTOM: In this respect we most marvel at Mark, because not only did he refuse to hide Peter’s fault, but wrote the account of it in greater detail than the others. And it is for this very reason that he is called Peter’s disciple. [1] THE GOSPEL OF ST. MATTHEW 85.1. [2]

[1] Mk 14:66-72.

[2] NPNF 1 10:507*; TLG 2062.152, 58.758.56-59; cf. AEG 5:438.

THE WEEPING APOSTLE

AUGUSTINE: As holy David repented for his deadly crimes and still retained his kingship, [1] so the blessed Peter earnestly repented, having denied the Lord, and shed such bitter tears, yet remained an apostle. [2] LETTER 185, TO BONIFACE. [3]

[1] Cf. 2 Sam 12:1-20; 24:17.

[2] Cf. Mt 26:69-75; Mk 14:66-72; Lk 22:55-62.

[3] Cetedoc 0262, 185.57.10.39.13; FC 30:184**.

LEARNING COMPASSION

GREGORY THE GREAT: And here we must ask ourselves, why did almighty God permit the one he had placed over the whole church to be frightened by the voice of a maidservant, and even to deny Christ himself? [1] This we know was a great dispensation of the divine mercy, so that he who was to be the shepherd of the church might learn through his own fall to have compassion on others. God therefore first shows him to himself, and then places him over others: to learn through his own weakness how to bear mercifully with the weakness of others. HOMILIES ON THE GOSPELS 21. [2]

[1] Cf. Mk 14:66-72.

[2] Cetedoc 1711, 2.21.4.15; SSGF 2:243.