New Testament
John 21:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and the fish likewise.
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Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.
What John 21:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a moment of intimacy and provision between Jesus and His disciples after His resurrection. Jesus prepares a meal for them, demonstrating His care and concern for their physical needs. The act of taking bread and fish symbolizes nourishment and fellowship. This scene occurs after the disciples had been fishing all night without success, highlighting Jesus' role as a provider. By giving them bread and fish, He not only meets their hunger but also reinforces their relationship with Him. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of community and sharing meals together, which can strengthen bonds and foster connection. It also illustrates how Jesus continues to be present in the lives of His followers, even after His resurrection, showing that He is still actively involved in their daily lives. This act of sharing food is a powerful symbol of His ongoing support and love for them, encouraging believers to rely on Him for both spiritual and physical sustenance.
How to apply John 21:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of sharing meals and time with others. Just as Jesus provided for His disciples, we should seek to meet the needs of those around us, fostering community and connection. Remember to invite others into your life and share what you have.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Breakfast by the Sea (John 21:1–14)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying John 21:13
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 21:13 mean?
John 21:13 describes a moment where Jesus shares a meal with His disciples after His resurrection. This act symbolizes His care for them and highlights the importance of fellowship and community.
What is the significance of Jesus giving bread and fish in John 21:13?
In John 21:13, Jesus giving bread and fish represents His provision and nourishment for His disciples. It emphasizes His ongoing presence in their lives and the importance of sharing meals as a way to strengthen relationships.
How does John 21:13 relate to community?
John 21:13 highlights the importance of community by showing Jesus sharing a meal with His disciples. This act encourages believers to foster connections and support one another through shared experiences.
What themes are present in John 21:13?
Key themes in John 21:13 include provision, fellowship, and care. The verse emphasizes Jesus' role as a provider and the significance of communal meals in building relationships.
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