“Get behind me, Satan” recalls the moment when Jesus rebuked Peter after Peter tried to dissuade Him from His mission of suffering and the Cross. When Jesus began to reveal that He must suffer, die, and rise again, Peter objected. Jesus then turned and corrected him, saying that he was setting his mind on human concerns rather than God’s will (Matthew 16:21–23; Mark 8:31–33).
This strong rebuke was not directed at Peter as a person, but at the temptation and misunderstanding behind his words. It highlights the necessity of embracing God’s plan even when it involves suffering. The passage emphasizes that discipleship requires aligning one’s thoughts with God’s will rather than worldly expectations.
The phrase symbolizes spiritual discernment, rejection of temptation, and commitment to God’s purpose even when it is difficult.
Matthew 16:21–23
Jesus rebukes Peter: “Get behind me, Satan!”
Mark 8:31–33
Jesus corrects Peter for thinking in human rather than divine terms.
Romans 8:5–8
A contrast between setting the mind on the flesh versus the Spirit.
Isaiah 55:8–9
God’s ways and thoughts are higher than human ways.
Illustration by: Colton Rompala