New Testament
John 21:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep."
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He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
What John 21:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him, which mirrors Peter's three denials of Jesus before the crucifixion. This repetition highlights the importance of love and commitment in Peter's relationship with Jesus. Peter feels hurt by the repeated questioning, but he affirms his love for Jesus, acknowledging that Jesus knows his heart. Jesus responds by instructing Peter to 'feed my sheep,' symbolizing the responsibility Peter has to care for and lead the followers of Christ. This moment signifies Peter's restoration and commissioning as a leader in the early church, emphasizing that love for Jesus is demonstrated through service to others.
How to apply John 21:17 to your life
This passage encourages us to reflect on our own love for Jesus and how it translates into action. Just as Peter was called to care for others, we too are called to serve and support those around us, demonstrating our love through our actions.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Peter Restored (John 21:15–19)
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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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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 21:17 mean?
John 21:17 captures a pivotal moment where Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him, paralleling Peter's earlier three denials. This emphasizes Peter's restoration and his role in leading the early church, highlighting that love for Jesus is shown through caring for others.
What is the significance of Jesus asking Peter three times in John 21:17?
Jesus asking Peter three times underscores the importance of love and commitment, mirroring Peter's three denials. It serves to restore Peter and affirm his leadership role among Jesus' followers.
What does 'Feed my sheep' mean in John 21:17?
'Feed my sheep' signifies Jesus' command for Peter to care for and guide His followers. It emphasizes that true love for Jesus involves taking responsibility for the spiritual well-being of others.
Why was Peter grieved in John 21:17?
Peter was grieved because Jesus asked him three times if he loved Him, which reminded Peter of his previous denials. This repetition made Peter reflect on his commitment and love for Jesus.
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