Summary
John 21:1–14 – Breakfast by the Sea
What happens:
Several disciples return to Galilee and go fishing at dawn but catch nothing all night. At daybreak Jesus stands on the shore, though they do not recognize him, and tells them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. They obey and haul in a large catch of fish. The disciple whom Jesus loves realizes it is the Lord and tells Peter, who jumps into the water to swim ashore. The others follow in the boat dragging the net. On the beach they find bread and fish cooking. Jesus invites them to bring some of the catch, and they share a meal together.
What it means:
Jesus cares for his followers’ practical needs and reveals himself anew through provision. Obedience to his word leads to abundance, and recognition of his presence transforms ordinary work into shared fellowship.
John 21:15–19 – Peter’s Restoration
What happens:
After breakfast Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” Peter affirms his love each time. Jesus responds each time by commanding Peter to “feed my lambs,” “take care of my sheep,” and “feed my sheep.” Jesus predicts the way Peter will glorify God through his future martyrdom and tells him to follow the path Jesus has chosen.
What it means:
Jesus heals Peter’s threefold denial by reaffirming his commission. Genuine love for Christ is demonstrated in shepherding his people. Peter’s call to follow Jesus includes both pastoral care and the willingness to lay down his life.
John 21:20–23 – The Beloved Disciple’s Future
What happens:
Peter notices the beloved disciple following them and asks Jesus about his fate. Jesus tells Peter to focus on his own calling, “What is that to you? You follow me.” A misunderstanding arises that the beloved disciple will not die, but Jesus clarifies that the disciple’s destiny is God’s to reveal, not Peter’s to know.
What it means:
God assigns different callings and timelines to each disciple. Comparison distracts from obedience. Jesus invites Peter (and all believers) to focus on following him rather than on the paths of others.
John 21:24–25 – The Beloved Disciple’s Witness
What happens:
The author identifies himself as the disciple who testified to these things and assures that his testimony is true. He adds that Jesus did many other signs not recorded, but the ones written are so that readers may believe.
What it means:
Reliable eyewitness testimony undergirds the Gospel’s authority. The selection of signs and teachings serves the purpose of inspiring faith in Jesus as the Messiah and Son of God.
Application
- Obey Jesus’ instructions, even when they seem routine, trusting his provision will meet your needs
- Embrace restoration through Christ’s forgiveness and recommissioning, serving his people with love and humility
- Avoid comparing your journey or calling to others; focus on following Jesus in the path he has laid out for you
- Treasure the Gospel’s eyewitness witness and share the truth of Christ’s life and resurrection with confidence
- Cultivate fellowship around Christ—like the shared meal by the sea—to strengthen faith and community
