How does Peter's reaction in John 21:20 reflect human tendencies toward comparison? The Scene on the Shore John 21 takes place after the resurrection, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus has just recommissioned Peter with the threefold “Feed My sheep” (John 21:15-17). Having affirmed Peter’s calling, the Lord foretells the cost of that calling: “When you are old… someone else will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go” (John 21:18-19). Peter’s Turn and Question • John 21:20: “Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had leaned against Jesus at the supper and had said, ‘Lord, who is going to betray You?’” • Immediately after hearing about his own future, Peter looks back at John and, in verse 21, asks, “Lord, what about him?” • Peter’s instinctive glance away from Christ to another disciple shows a heart momentarily distracted from the personal word Jesus had just spoken. Comparison: A Common Human Reflex • Human nature often seeks validation by measuring self against others. • Peter has just received both an honor (shepherding) and a sobering prophecy (martyrdom). The tension between privilege and cost stirs a desire to know if others will share the same load. • This reflex can spring from: – Self-protection: hoping another will carry equal or greater hardship. – Envy or rivalry: wondering if someone else will receive greater favor. – Uncertainty: looking sideways instead of fixing eyes on Christ for assurance. Where Scripture Echoes This Trap • 2 Corinthians 10:12: “When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance.” • Luke 10:40-41—Martha’s complaint against Mary reveals comparison leading to frustration. • Matthew 20:11-12—Laborers in the vineyard compare wages and murmur against the landowner. • Galatians 6:4—Believers are exhorted to “examine their own work… not in comparison to someone else.” Jesus Redirects Peter’s Focus • John 21:22: “Jesus answered, ‘If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you? You follow Me!’” • Christ affirms individual calling and responsibility. The destiny of another disciple is irrelevant to Peter’s obedience. • This gentle rebuke preserves unity among believers by cutting off competitive curiosity. Lessons for Daily Discipleship • Receive Christ’s personal word without immediately glancing sideways. • Celebrate distinct callings; God assigns unique roles, gifts, and burdens (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). • Guard against envy by remembering that every good gift is from above (James 1:17). • Replace comparison with contentment and gratitude (Philippians 4:11-13). • Keep eyes fixed on Jesus, “the Author and Perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2), instead of on the progress, accolades, or trials of others. |
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