What is the meaning of John 21:17? Jesus asked a third time • The repetition mirrors Peter’s threefold denial (John 18:17, 25-27; Luke 22:61-62) and publicly restores him in the presence of the other disciples. • Threefold questioning underscores Christ’s patient, thorough work of restoration, ensuring nothing is left unresolved (Proverbs 28:13; John 13:38 compared with John 21:15-17). Simon son of John, do you love Me? • By using Peter’s original name, Jesus brings him back to the starting point of discipleship (John 1:42), highlighting grace that invites a fresh beginning. • The focus is on love, the supreme command that orders all obedience (Matthew 22:37-38; 1 Corinthians 13:1-3). • The personal address stresses accountability: love for Jesus can never be abstract; it must be confessed and lived out before witnesses (Mark 8:38). Peter was deeply hurt • Genuine contrition follows conviction; Peter’s grief shows godly sorrow that leads to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10; Psalm 34:18). • Hurt here is healing, pressing the wound so it can close. Christ’s discipline flows from love (Hebrews 12:11; Revelation 3:19). • The scene models how past failure, once confessed, becomes a testimony of grace rather than a source of shame (1 Timothy 1:13-16). Lord, You know all things • Peter appeals to Christ’s omniscience (Psalm 139:1-4; John 2:24-25), acknowledging that nothing about his heart is hidden. • This confession shifts trust from self-assessment to the Lord’s perfect knowledge, the safest ground for assurance (1 John 3:20). You know I love You • Despite earlier collapse, Peter’s renewed love is sincere; grace has rekindled what guilt extinguished (John 21:7; Luke 7:47). • Love validated by Christ’s knowledge is stronger than vows made in human confidence (John 13:37-38; Romans 5:5). Feed My sheep • Love for Jesus must express itself in service to His people (John 15:12-13; 1 John 4:20-21). • “Feed” calls Peter to nurture, guide, and protect the flock (John 10:11-14; 1 Peter 5:2-4; Acts 20:28). • The commission shifts Peter from fisherman to shepherd, illustrating how redemption redirects gifts toward kingdom care (Ephesians 4:11-12). summary Jesus’ triple question gently reverses Peter’s triple denial, proving that Christ’s restorative grace is thorough. Love for the Lord, confirmed by His omniscient gaze, issues in devoted care for His people. Past failure, once surrendered, becomes the very pathway to fruitful ministry. |
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