New Testament

John 21:17

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him, which mirrors Peter's three denials of Jesus before the crucifixion.

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 85-95
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
All believers
CBTClear Bible Translation

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."

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

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.

Curated for this public verse page. John Summary

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.

The Book of John
Book Summary

The Book of John

John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples

In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.

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