In John 21:20-23, after Jesus’ resurrection, Peter asks Jesus about John’s future, wondering what will happen to him. Jesus responds with a gentle rebuke, telling Peter, “What is that to you? You must follow me.” This moment highlights a profound lesson about focusing on one’s own spiritual journey rather than comparing it to others. Jesus emphasizes that each person has a unique path, with distinct purposes and plans crafted by God. This interaction invites us to trust in God’s plan for our lives, concentrate on our own calling, and avoid distractions caused by comparisons.
This conversation between Peter and Jesus offers valuable lessons that we can apply today. By embracing our personal journeys, staying focused on Jesus, and celebrating the paths of others, we can avoid feelings of envy or dissatisfaction. The story also teaches us to reflect on our own calling, recognizing that God has uniquely equipped us for His purposes. To dive deeper into the spiritual insights from this passage and how they can shape our lives, keep reading for more practical guidance and reflections on embracing our individual journeys with Christ.
In the Gospel of John, there’s an interesting encounter where Peter asks Jesus about John. This moment happens after Jesus’ resurrection, during a seaside conversation between Jesus and some of His disciples. Understanding this interaction offers profound insights into our own lives and spiritual journeys.
Setting the Scene
The story unfolds in John 21:20-23. After Jesus’ resurrection, He appears to His disciples several times. In this particular scene, Jesus has just reinstated Peter, asking him three times, “Do you love me?” Each time Peter affirms his love, Jesus commands him to “Feed my sheep” (John 21:15-17).
Peter’s Question
As they walk along the shore, Peter notices John following them. Curious about John’s future, Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” (John 21:21). Peter’s question isn’t just a casual inquiry; it reflects a deeper human tendency to compare our paths with others.
Jesus’ Response
Jesus responds to Peter with a gentle but firm rebuke: “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me” (John 21:22). Jesus redirects Peter’s focus from John’s destiny to his own calling. This is a pivotal lesson for us.
Lessons from Jesus’ Response
- Focus on Your Own Path: Jesus’ response teaches us the importance of concentrating on our own spiritual journey. It’s easy to get sidetracked by comparing ourselves to others, but this distracts us from our unique purpose.
- Trust in God’s Plan: Jesus implies that God’s plan for each person is different. While Peter’s future involved significant trials and eventual martyrdom, John’s path was distinct. We must trust that God has a unique plan for each of us, tailored to our strengths and purposes.
- Avoid Comparisons: Comparing ourselves to others can lead to envy, dissatisfaction, and distraction. Jesus’ words remind us that our focus should be on our relationship with Him and our own calling.
The Rumor about John
Jesus’ response to Peter sparked a rumor among the disciples that John would not die. John clarifies this in his gospel, stating, “Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, ‘If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?'” (John 21:23). This clarification emphasizes that Jesus’ focus was on individual callings rather than making a prediction about John’s fate.
Practical Applications for Today
- Embrace Your Journey: Each of us has a unique journey. Embrace your path and trust that God knows what He’s doing in your life. Psalm 139:16 says, “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” God has a plan for you.
- Stay Focused on Jesus: Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Keeping our focus on Jesus helps us stay true to our path and avoid the pitfalls of comparison.
- Celebrate Others’ Journeys: Instead of comparing, celebrate the unique paths of others. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Supporting others in their journeys fosters community and strengthens our faith.
Peter and John: Different Yet United
Peter and John had different roles in the early church, but both were crucial. Peter, known for his boldness, became a leading figure in the Jerusalem church. John, often called “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” provided a unique perspective on Jesus’ ministry through his writings.
Reflecting on Your Calling
Take time to reflect on your calling. What passions and talents has God given you? How can you use them to serve others and glorify Him? Remember that your journey is significant, even if it looks different from those around you.
Conclusion
Peter’s question about John and Jesus’ response offer timeless lessons. Focus on your own walk with Christ, trust in God’s unique plan for you, and avoid the trap of comparison. By doing so, you’ll find greater peace and purpose in your journey. As Jesus said, “You must follow me” (John 21:22). Embrace His call and walk confidently in the path He has set for you.
FAQs: Peter Asks Jesus About John
1. What is the context of Peter asking Jesus about John?
After Jesus’ resurrection, He appears to His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. During this encounter, Jesus reinstates Peter by asking him three times if he loves Him and commanding him to “Feed my sheep.” As they walk along the shore, Peter notices John following them and asks Jesus about John’s future.
2. Why did Peter ask Jesus about John’s future?
Peter was curious about John’s destiny, possibly reflecting a common human tendency to compare our lives and futures with those of others. This question stemmed from his concern or interest in how Jesus’ plans for John might differ from his own.
3. How did Jesus respond to Peter’s question about John?
Jesus responded by saying, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me” (John 21:22). Jesus gently rebuked Peter, emphasizing that Peter should focus on his own calling and not be concerned with John’s fate.
4. What lesson can we learn from Jesus’ response to Peter?
Jesus’ response teaches us to focus on our own spiritual journey and trust in God’s unique plan for each of us. It reminds us to avoid comparisons with others and concentrate on our personal relationship with Jesus and our individual callings.
5. Did Jesus predict that John would not die?
No, Jesus did not predict that John would not die. The misunderstanding arose from Jesus’ statement, but John clarifies in his gospel that Jesus only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?” This was not a prediction but a redirection of Peter’s focus.
6. What practical applications can we draw from this story?
- Embrace Your Journey: Understand that your path is unique and divinely planned. Trust in God’s design for your life.
- Stay Focused on Jesus: Keep your eyes on Jesus to stay true to your calling and avoid distractions.
- Celebrate Others’ Journeys: Instead of comparing, support and rejoice in the unique paths of others.
7. How did Peter and John contribute differently to the early church?
Peter became a leading figure in the Jerusalem church, known for his boldness and leadership. John, often referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” provided a unique perspective through his writings, including the Gospel of John, the Epistles, and Revelation.
8. What Bible verses support the themes of this story?
- Psalm 139:16: “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”
- Hebrews 12:1-2: “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
- Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
9. How can reflecting on your calling help you?
Reflecting on your calling helps you understand and appreciate the unique gifts and talents God has given you. It encourages you to use these gifts to serve others and fulfill your purpose, bringing greater peace and fulfillment to your life.
10. What is the key takeaway from Jesus’ interaction with Peter about John?
The key takeaway is to focus on your own relationship with Jesus and your unique calling, trusting in God’s plan for your life. Avoid comparisons with others, and embrace the path God has set for you with confidence and faith.
