New Testament
John 21:18
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"Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you dressed yourself and walked wherever you wanted. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go."
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Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.
What John 21:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks to Peter about the future he will face. He contrasts Peter's youthful independence, where he could dress himself and go wherever he pleased, with the time when he will be older. At that point, Peter will be restricted and will have to rely on others, symbolizing a loss of control over his own life. This foreshadows the manner of Peter's death, suggesting that he will be led to a place he does not want to go, likely referring to martyrdom. The phrase 'stretch out your hands' can also imply a reference to crucifixion, indicating that Peter's life will end in a way that glorifies God, despite the suffering involved. This passage highlights themes of sacrifice, the inevitability of aging, and the call to follow Christ even in difficult circumstances.
How to apply John 21:18 to your life
This verse encourages believers to embrace their journey with Christ, understanding that following Him may lead to challenges and sacrifices. It reminds us to trust in God's plan, even when we face situations beyond our control, and to remain faithful in our calling.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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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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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying John 21:18
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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 21:18 mean?
In John 21:18, Jesus tells Peter that as he ages, he will lose the freedom he once had and will be led to a place he does not want to go, foreshadowing Peter's eventual martyrdom and the sacrifices he will make for his faith.
What is the meaning of 'stretch out your hands' in John 21:18?
The phrase 'stretch out your hands' in John 21:18 symbolizes Peter's future suffering and possibly his crucifixion, indicating that he will face challenges and restrictions in his life as he follows Christ.
How does John 21:18 relate to sacrifice?
John 21:18 relates to sacrifice by illustrating that following Christ may lead to difficult circumstances, as Peter will have to endure suffering and be led to his death, highlighting the theme of giving up personal freedom for a greater purpose.
What themes are present in John 21:18?
Themes in John 21:18 include sacrifice, the inevitability of aging, loss of control, martyrdom, and the call to remain faithful to Christ even in challenging situations.
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