What does John 21:23 teach about interpreting Jesus' statements accurately? Setting the Scene • After His resurrection, Jesus restores Peter (John 21:15-19). • Peter glances at “the disciple whom Jesus loved” and asks, “Lord, what about him?” (21:20-21). • Jesus replies, “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you? You follow Me!” (21:22). Text of John 21:23 “Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say that he would not die, but, ‘If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you?’” Immediate Lesson: Listen to Jesus’ Exact Words • A single conditional clause (“If I want…”) became a confident rumor (“He will not die”). • The disciples’ mishearing shows how quickly meaning shifts when a phrase is lifted from its context or its grammar is ignored. Why Misinterpretation Happened • Selective hearing—Peter focused on John’s future instead of his own calling. • Wishful thinking—early believers desired extraordinary promises and filled in blanks. • Echo-chamber effect—“the rumor spread among the brothers,” reinforcing error. Principles for Accurate Interpretation • Read the whole statement, not just the part that excites us. • Observe grammar: conditional (“If…”) is not the same as declarative (“He will…”). • Keep context in view—Jesus was correcting Peter’s curiosity, not predicting John’s fate. • Let Scripture explain Scripture; Jesus’ own clarification ends the misunderstanding. • Resist adding or subtracting (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). Supporting Scriptures • Matthew 22:29—“You are mistaken because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.” • Luke 24:25-27—Jesus rebukes and then explains “all the Scriptures” concerning Himself. • 2 Timothy 2:15—“Be diligent to present yourself approved… rightly handling the word of truth.” • Proverbs 30:5-6—Every word is flawless; do not add to His words. Living It Out • Compare what you think Jesus said with what is actually written. • Check rumors, memes, and popular sayings against the text. • Embrace personal obedience (“You follow Me”) rather than speculative curiosity about others. • Teach with precision so that hearers grasp Christ’s true intent, not our assumptions. |
    |