Peter now went outside, broke down, and wept bitterly. (Mt 26:69-75; Mr 14:66-72; Lu 22:54-62; Joh 18:17, 18; see COCKCROWING; OATH.) However, Jesus’ earlier supplication on Peter’s behalf was answered, and Peter’s faith did not give out completely.​—Lu 22:31, 32.

Later Ministry. Having “returned” from his fall into the snare of fear caused largely by overconfidence (compare Pr 29:25), Peter was now to “strengthen [his] brothers” in fulfillment of Christ’s exhortation (Lu 22:32) and to do shepherding work among His sheep. (Joh 21:15-17) In harmony with this, we find Peter taking a prominent part in the activity of the disciples after Jesus’ ascension into heaven.