Why does Peter question Jesus about John's future in John 21:21? Text of John 21:20-22 Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them. (He was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper to ask, “Lord, who is going to betray You?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you? You follow Me!” Immediate Narrative Context The risen Christ has just reinstated Peter after his triple denial (John 21:15-19). Jesus prophesies Peter’s eventual martyrdom, then commands, “Follow Me!” Peter’s question about John arises within seconds of receiving that solemn personal commission. Character Study: Peter’s Temperament and History Peter’s spontaneous nature is evident throughout the Gospels (Matthew 14:28-31; Mark 8:32; John 18:10). His pattern of speaking quickly, acting decisively, and occasionally misdirecting zeal explains a reflexive desire to know how John’s path will compare with his own. Human comparison is an ingrained tendency (cf. Luke 22:24). Social-Psychological Insight: The Drive to Compare Behavioral science identifies “social comparison theory,” in which individuals evaluate themselves by reference to others. Scripture anticipated this: “making comparisons among themselves, they are without understanding” (2 Corinthians 10:12). Peter’s question exemplifies that impulse; Jesus’ answer redirects it. Possible Motives Behind Peter’s Question 1. Relief-seeking: After hearing of impending martyrdom, Peter may hope John will share a similar fate, lessening the weight of his own. 2. Leadership concern: As de-facto spokesman among the Twelve, Peter could be gauging future responsibilities if John’s ministry differs radically. 3. Simple curiosity springing from friendship: He and John formed the inner circle with James (Mark 5:37; 9:2; 14:33). Jesus’ Corrective Response Christ’s reply (“If I want him to remain… what is that to you? You follow Me!”) refocuses Peter on individual obedience. Discipleship is personal; destinies vary under divine sovereignty (Romans 12:4-6). The Greek construction ei (“if”) with subjunctive denotes a real possibility yet leaves the outcome open, underscoring God’s prerogative. Providential Diversity of Callings Scripture is consistent: Moses leads, Joshua conquers, Samuel judges, David rules, Jeremiah weeps, Daniel interprets, Paul evangelizes Gentiles—each assignment tailored by Yahweh. Peter is called to pastoral martyrdom; John to prolonged witness (likely into the reign of Trajan, per Irenaeus, Against Heresies 3.1.1). Historical Fulfilment: John’s Longevity Early Christian testimony records John’s survival beyond all other apostles: • Irenaeus (A.D. 180) states John lived “until the times of Trajan.” • Tertullian (A.D. 200) recounts John’s miraculous preservation when plunged into boiling oil at Rome (On the Prescription of Heretics 36). • Eusebius (Ecclesiastical History 3.23) notes John’s exile to Patmos under Domitian and return under Nerva. These traditions harmonize with Jesus’ conditional clause; while not guaranteeing immortality, it foretells an unusually extended ministry. Prophetic Verification and Apologetic Value Christ’s differentiated prophecy (martyrdom for Peter, longevity for John) was verifiable to the first-century community. Its fulfillment bolstered the church’s confidence in Jesus’ omniscience and Lordship, paralleling the 300+ Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in His first advent (Luke 24:44). Consistency with Broader Biblical Teaching • Individual accountability: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). • Prohibition of envy: “A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy is rot to the bones” (Proverbs 14:30). • Focus on one’s race: “Let us run with endurance the race set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1-2). Pastoral and Practical Applications 1. Follow Christ personally; avoid unhealthy comparison. 2. Accept God’s sovereign design for differing life spans, ministries, and hardships. 3. Celebrate the complementary roles within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:18-27). Conclusion Peter’s question exposes a universal human tendency to measure our path by another’s. Jesus’ gentle yet firm answer re-centers disciples on singular devotion, showcasing the Lord’s sovereign, individualized plans. The subsequent historical outworking in Peter’s martyrdom and John’s longevity validates both the authenticity of Jesus’ words and the cohesive trustworthiness of Scripture. |
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