John 21:1-14
Summary for John 21:1-25: 21:1-25 a This final chapter adds an account about the resurrected Jesus in Galilee (21:1-14 b) and records the exchange between Peter and Jesus concerning Peter’s love (21:15-23 c). The chapter ends by summarizing the authority and importance of John’s eyewitness report (21:24-25 d).21:2 e Several of the disciples returned to fishing in the Sea of Galilee. This was not a sign that their faith had weakened—even rabbis who regularly preached kept practicing their occupations (see Acts 18:3 f; 20:34 g; 1 Cor 4:12 h).
• The sons of Zebedee were James and John (see Matt 4:21 i).
21:3 j Fishing was usually successful in the early hours of the morning. However, this trip was useless and they caught nothing all night.
21:4 k Jesus was standing on the beach, but the men did not recognize him (cp. 20:11-16 l; Luke 24:13-53 m).
21:6 n “Throw out your net on the right-hand side”: Casting a net into the sea at random was futile. But when they did as the stranger said, the immense catch was immediate (21:11 o).
21:7 p “It’s the Lord!” John recognized Jesus, probably remembering that a miracle like this had happened before (Luke 5:1-11 q).
• Peter, who had stripped off his clothes while working, put on his tunic in order to meet the Lord.
21:9 r Cooked fish and bread were the mainstays of the Galilean diet; Jesus provided the men with breakfast. The charcoal fire is reminiscent of the scene of Peter’s denials (18:18 s).
21:11 t This miracle showed generous provision (as in 2:1-12 u; 6:1-15 v). No symbolism attaches to the number 153.
Summary for John 21:12-13: 21:12-13 w None of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” Jesus’ resurrected appearance was different. His offer of fish and bread removed all uncertainties (cp. 6:11 x; Luke 24:30 y).
21:14 z This scene on the beach was the third time Jesus had appeared (see 20:11-23 aa, 26-29 ab).
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