But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.”

Everyone spoke well of him and was amazed by the gracious words that came from his lips. “How can this be?” they asked. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?”

Amazed, the people exclaimed, “What authority and power this man’s words possess! Even evil spirits obey him, and they flee at his command!”

But they didn’t understand any of this. The significance of his words was hidden from them, and they failed to grasp what he was talking about.

“‘You wicked servant!’ the king roared. ‘Your own words condemn you. If you knew that I’m a hard man who takes what isn’t mine and harvests crops I didn’t plant,

for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you!

For those will be days of God’s vengeance, and the prophetic words of the Scriptures will be fulfilled.

Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.

At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.”

A sign was fastened above him with these words: “This is the King of the Jews.”

Then Jesus shouted, “Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!” And with those words he breathed his last.