How does John 21:21 challenge us to focus on our own calling? Setting the Scene John 21 unfolds after the resurrection, as Jesus restores Peter following his three denials. A fresh commission—“Feed My sheep”—has just been handed to Peter, underscoring his unique mission. The Heart of the Question “Peter, seeing him, asked Jesus, ‘Lord, what about him?’ ” (John 21:21). Peter points to John and effectively says, “What’s his assignment? Does he get the same path, the same hardships, the same reward?” Jesus’ Redirecting Response “Jesus answered, ‘If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you? You follow Me!’ ” (John 21:22). • Jesus refuses to reveal John’s future; that knowledge is irrelevant to Peter’s obedience. • The command is crystal clear and personal: “You follow Me!” What It Means for Us Today • Our primary responsibility is obedience to Christ’s specific direction for us. • Comparison distracts and divides; obedience unites our focus on the Lord. • Knowing another believer’s journey does not equip us to walk ours. Scriptural Echoes • Hebrews 12:1-2: “Let us run with endurance the race set out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.” • Galatians 6:4-5: “Each one should test his own work… each will carry his own load.” • Romans 12:4-6: “We have different gifts according to the grace given us.” Common Temptations to Compare • Different ministry platforms—public vs. hidden service • Varied life circumstances—health, finances, family • Pace of spiritual growth—visible fruit in others, unseen progress in us Practical Steps to Focus on Your Calling 1. Begin each day with surrendered availability: “Speak, Lord, Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). 2. List the specific assignments God has already given—family roles, church service, workplace witness. 3. Celebrate the victories of others without measuring your worth against them (1 Corinthians 12:26). 4. Guard your mind from envy by rehearsing God’s faithfulness in your own story (Psalm 103:2). 5. Re-center often: repeat Jesus’ words—“You follow Me!” Promises When We Stay in Our Lane • Peace replaces rivalry (Philippians 4:7). • Fruitfulness flourishes in abiding obedience (John 15:5). • Eternal reward is based on faithfulness, not comparison (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Takeaway Snapshot John 21:21 confronts the impulse to compare and calls every disciple to wholehearted, individualized obedience. Jesus still says, “You follow Me!” Honor that charge, and you will fulfill the exact purpose He designed for you. |
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