1. Mark 8:33 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does Jesus turn and look back at his disciples?

Mark 8:33 (ESV)

33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.”

Peter took Jesus aside so that he might not appear to be rebuking his master in the presence of the disciples. Perhaps in doing so, he thought that Jesus would also be more willing to listen to his rebuke.1 Since Peter was the spokesperson for the disciples, we can assume that they approved of Peters actions. Jesus now turns around to face them all so that he can rebuke them together.