New Testament
John 21:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus speaks to Peter about the future he will face.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
"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."
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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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