What can we learn from the disciples' obedience in John 21:2? Setting the Scene John 21:2 lists seven disciples who have left Jerusalem and are together by the Sea of Galilee: “Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together.” Jesus had told them after the resurrection, “Go and tell My brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.” (Matthew 28:10) Their gathering in Galilee is a direct response to that command. Obedience Highlighted in John 21:2 • Immediate compliance—no delay in traveling the long road north. • Collective obedience—each disciple chose to go, reinforcing one another’s resolve. • Placement over preference—Galilee was familiar, yet unpredictable after recent events; still, they positioned themselves where Jesus said He would meet them. • Quiet faith—no fanfare, just steady obedience while they waited for further instructions. Lessons for Today • Be where Jesus tells you to be—obedience often starts with geography: church, home, workplace, mission field. • Obedience is strengthened in community—fellow believers help us stay the course (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Faith acts before understanding—like the disciples, we may not see the full plan, but we step forward because He said so (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Stay available—God often reveals the next step to those who have already taken the last one (Psalm 25:14). Supporting Examples from Scripture • Luke 5:5: Peter obeys, casts the net, and sees a miracle. • Acts 1:4-5,14: the same disciples obediently wait in Jerusalem and receive the Spirit. • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” These passages show a pattern: obedience precedes revelation and blessing. Putting It into Practice 1. Identify the last clear instruction God gave you; act on it today. 2. Surround yourself with believers who value obedience. 3. Replace “I’ll obey when I understand” with “I’ll understand more as I obey.” 4. Expect Jesus to reveal Himself along the path of obedience, just as He did on that Galilean shore. |
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