New Testament
John 21:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The other disciples came in the small boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from land — only about two hundred cubits.
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And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.
What John 21:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the other disciples returning to shore in a small boat, pulling a net filled with fish. They are not far from the land, only about two hundred cubits, which is roughly a hundred yards. This moment highlights the teamwork and effort of the disciples as they work together to bring in their catch. The mention of the distance from land emphasizes their proximity to safety and the shore, symbolizing a return to their familiar life after the events of Jesus' resurrection. The act of dragging the net also signifies the abundance of blessings they received, as they had caught a large number of fish. This scene serves as a reminder of the importance of community and collaboration in achieving goals, as well as the rewards that come from hard work and faithfulness in their mission.
How to apply John 21:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to work together with others in our endeavors, recognizing that collaboration can lead to greater success. It also reminds us to appreciate the blessings we receive in our lives, especially when we put in the effort and remain faithful to our tasks and responsibilities.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Breakfast by the Sea (John 21:1–14)
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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.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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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 21:8 mean?
John 21:8 describes the disciples returning to shore in a small boat, pulling a net full of fish. This scene illustrates their teamwork and the blessings they received after a night of fishing, emphasizing their close proximity to safety and a return to their familiar lives.
What is the significance of the net full of fish in John 21:8?
The net full of fish in John 21:8 symbolizes the abundance of blessings that come from hard work and faithfulness. It highlights the disciples' successful efforts and serves as a reminder of the rewards that can follow dedication in their mission.
What does 'two hundred cubits' mean in John 21:8?
In John 21:8, 'two hundred cubits' refers to a distance of approximately one hundred yards. This detail emphasizes the disciples' closeness to land and safety as they return from their fishing trip.
What themes are present in John 21:8?
John 21:8 presents themes of teamwork, abundance, faithfulness, and the return to normalcy after the resurrection of Jesus. It highlights the importance of collaboration and the rewards that come from diligent efforts.
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