New Testament
John 21:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This was now the third time Jesus revealed himself to his disciples after he had risen from the dead.
Compare translations
This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
What John 21:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn that Jesus appeared to his disciples for the third time after His resurrection. This is significant because it emphasizes the reality of His resurrection and His ongoing relationship with His followers. Each appearance served to strengthen their faith and confirm His identity as the risen Christ. The disciples had witnessed His crucifixion and were likely filled with doubt and fear. By appearing to them multiple times, Jesus reassured them of His presence and the truth of His resurrection. This moment also highlights the importance of community among believers, as Jesus chose to reveal Himself to His disciples collectively. It reminds us that faith is often nurtured in the context of shared experiences and relationships with others who believe. The repetition of these appearances underscores the certainty of the resurrection, which is a foundational belief in Christianity, affirming that Jesus conquered death and offers hope to all who follow Him.
How to apply John 21:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek and recognize Jesus in our lives, especially during challenging times. Just as the disciples needed reassurance, we too can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is present with us. Engaging with fellow believers can strengthen our faith and help us experience His presence more fully.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Breakfast by the Sea (John 21:1–14)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 21:14
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 21:14
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 21:14 mean?
John 21:14 indicates that this was the third time Jesus appeared to His disciples after rising from the dead, emphasizing the reality of His resurrection and His continued relationship with them.
How does John 21:14 relate to the theme of community?
This verse highlights the importance of community among believers, as Jesus chose to reveal Himself to His disciples collectively, reminding us that faith is often strengthened through shared experiences.
What can we learn from John 21:14 about faith?
John 21:14 teaches us that faith can be nurtured through personal experiences with Jesus, and it encourages us to seek His presence, especially during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.