John 21:15-19 - Peter Pett's Commentary on the Bible

Bible Comments

Jesus Restores Peter (John 21:15-19).

Jesus had previously ‘appeared to Peter' privately (1 Corinthians 15:5; Luke 24:34), no doubt in order to assure him that he was forgiven. But this was now a public restoration in front of the others. He was destined to be a leader and it was important that he be seen to bear Jesus' stamp of approval.

That it was a restoration comes out in three ways.

1). There was a fire of coals similar to that beside which Peter had denied Him (John 18:18).

2). He asked Peter three times whether he loved Him, cancelling out the three denials that Peter had made (John 18:17; John 18:25; John 18:27).

3). The catch of fish confirmed that he would yet be a fisher of men.

Such was Christ's love and concern for His failing disciple.

John 21:15-19

15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter,Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,Feed my lambs.

16 He saith to him again the second time,Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,Feed my sheep.

17 He saith unto him the third time,Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him,Feed my sheep.

18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.

19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him,Follow me.