John 21 -- John Has Three More Things To Say

"John did not want to end his gospel without telling his readers that Peter was restored to his apostleship," my commentary began.  "Apart from the information in this chapter, we would wonder why Peter was so prominent in the first twelve chapters of the book of Acts."

It also mentioned another purpose:  "He wanted to teach us how to relate to the risen Christ."  The disciples never knew when He would appear, so they had to stay alert!"

My commentary also said there are three pictures of the believer and a responsibility attached to each ... Jesus had told His disciples to meet Him in Galilee, and it's here in this chapter that they've been waiting and fishing and are told to cast their nets on the other side of the boat and they are given a marvelous catch!  Jesus turned Peter's failure into success," it said.  "We are never far from success when we permit Jesus to give the orders, and we are usually closer to success than we realize."

Jesus then fed them breakfast on the beach, reminding us that we are shepherds, too.  And we are to love Jesus and all those He draws to Himself.  "Caring for the physical can prepare the way for spiritual ministry.  Our Lord does not so emphasize the soul that He neglects the body."

Jesus also mentioned Peter's death someday, but it would not be a tragedy -- it would glorify God.  When Jesus then publicly said, "Keep on following Me," Peter was publicly restored after he'd denied knowing Jesus three times.  Jesus doesn't hold our past sins that we've confessed against us, but instead forgives and puts us to work.  "We can succeed only as we permit Him to transform us."

Father, thank You for forgiving and transforming me.  Thank You for giving me hope and leading me to my two sons.  I pray that they, too, will discover the treasure of Your forgiveness and allow themselves to be used by You in a huge way.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford