“Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?” – John 21:20 (KJV)
“Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, ‘Lord, who is going to betray you?'” – John 21:20 (NLT)
“Peter turned and saw that the disciple Jesus loved was following them—the one who had been reclining against Jesus at the supper and had said, ‘Master, who is going to betray you?'” – John 21:20 (MSG)
What Does John 21:20 Mean?
John 21:20 plays an important role in illustrating Peter’s journey and the relationship dynamics among Jesus and His disciples. In this verse, we witness Peter looking back at the disciple, often understood to be John, who is closely following. This context provides us with a glimpse into the camaraderie among the disciples and highlights Peter’s inquisitive nature as he seeks understanding about the future of those around him. It indicates not just a physical act of turning, but a spiritual curiosity as well—an exploration of relationships, roles, and destinies within the circle of Jesus’ followers. It emphasizes human nature’s tendency to compare and question, as well as our desire to understand others’ paths in relation to our own.
John 21:20 Explanation and Commentary
This verse is found at the conclusion of the Gospel of John and serves a reflective purpose. The entire chapter is essentially the aftermath of Jesus’s resurrection. He appears to His disciples, offering them guidance and restoring Peter after his earlier denial. Peter’s inquisitiveness leads him to turn and see who is following them. This act of turning can symbolize a moment of introspection; it shows us that even in our journeys with Christ, we have moments of doubt and questions about others’ fates compared to our own. Sometimes, we might find ourselves wondering if someone else is favored more than we are or whether they have a different purpose. It brings to light the inner workings of our hearts, revealing insecurities and comparisons.
As we unpack this story, we are reminded that Peter’s questioning is something we can all relate to. The desire to grasp our standing in God’s plan is universal. We often find ourselves measuring our faith, our actions, and even our callings against those around us. Should we be more like another believer who seems to follow more closely, or more fervently? It’s an age-old struggle, yet it’s within this struggle that we grow. The acknowledgment of our weaknesses and the desire to question and learn from God brings us closer to Him. Peter’s curiosity is portrayed not as envy, but as a longing for clarity and direction. This speaks to us about the importance of clear communication and the active pursuit of understanding in our spiritual walk with Jesus.
Add to that, the encounter sets a significant precedent for how we interact with each other as believers. The presence of community in Christ is paramount and sometimes we might overlook the care and affection that Jesus encourages among His followers. With Peter’s glance toward John, he is reminded that even amid confusion, God’s plans are unique for all of us, and we may not always need to understand someone else’s path to be fulfilled in our own.
Context of John 21:20
To fully grasp John 21:20, it is crucial to look at the context in which it appears. After Jesus’ resurrection, He appears to His disciples, affirming their mission and restoring Peter following his denial. The entire chapter surrounds this encounter, indicating the deepening relationship between Jesus and His followers.
Earlier in John 21, Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him, and instructs him to feed His sheep. This conversation is deeply personal and is about Peter reclaiming his position among the disciples. After such a monumental moment, Peter’s turning to look at John signifies a moment of duality—his acceptance of Jesus’ words while also feeling human emotions about the closeness John shares with Jesus.
In this chapter, Jesus is redefining leadership and community among His followers. It underscores the idea that each disciple has a unique calling and relationship with Him. Jesus’ choice of words towards Peter about loving Him and tending to His flock indicates that there’s no hierarchy in the love and calling that believers receive. Understanding this context allows us to see that Peter’s inquiry about John was not an act of jealousy but rather a quest for reassurance that their paths are all valued equally in the sight of God.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of John 21:20
Let us break down the important parts of this verse. Firstly, the phrase “Peter turned” indicates an openness to explore and question his surroundings. This is something we can apply to our own lives; we, too, should be willing to turn and face the questions we have about ourselves and others in faith. Are we turning toward God with our fears or doubts? Are we reaching out to others for support? The act of turning does not have to be a physical action; it can signify readiness to reflect and seek understanding.
Moreover, when Peter sees the disciple whom Jesus loved, it is a reminder that there may be differences in how people relate to Jesus. John, often thought to be the beloved disciple, brings an understanding of the various relationships we can have in our journey with Christ. Just as in any community, we all have unique roles and gifts that God uses for His glory. The emphasis on the closeness John shares with Jesus strengthens our awareness that God’s love is personalized and relational.
Perhaps the most profound segment in this verse is Peter’s act of questioning about who would betray Jesus. This highlights Peter’s concern, showcasing not just his fear but his drive to understand what betrayal would mean in the context of their shared journey. Sometimes, as believers, we worry about the faithfulness of those around us or wonder how certain actions affect our sense of community. Here, we can find assurance that questioning does not mean lacking faith; instead, it is a pathway to deeper understanding and engagement with God’s purpose.
Lessons to Learn From John 21:20
This verse teaches us several lessons. One major takeaway is the importance of asking questions. As followers of Christ, we are urged to be curious and seek answers. Just as Peter turned to inquire about John, we should not be afraid to voice our concerns, insecurities, or aspirations to the Lord. Our questions can lead to growth and stronger faith.
Another lesson is about the uniqueness of our own paths. While we may look at others and judge their accomplishments, we should reflect on our personal journey with God. He has a specific plan for each of us. Embracing our paths can help us push aside comparisons and appreciate our grace-filled journey, just as Peter had his calling distinct from John, yet both were equally precious in God’s eyes.
Additionally, the essence of community among believers shines through in this verse. We often forget that support among friends and fellow Christians is vital. The relationship dynamics among Peter, John, and Jesus depict the kind of encouragement we should extend towards one another. Sharing in joy, worry, and inquiry encourages our growth collectively as the body of Christ.
Final Thoughts
In reflecting on John 21:20, we can gain deep insights into our walks with Jesus. This passage opens up dialogues about our relationships with others and God. If we are ever faced with uncertainty in our faith or in community, we remember the inquiry of Peter, and how it led not to division but a deeper connection with both Christ and the people around him.
When we gather in Christ’s love, we uplift each other through questions and shared experiences. Just as Peter and John walked together with Jesus, we can find joy in walking alongside each other in our spiritual journeys. No matter where we are today, let us focus on loving Him, feeding His sheep, and appreciating the distinct paths we’re all on. For further exploration, consider the importance of unity in faith, as discussed in John 7:2, or reflect on how this dynamic is carried out in leadership roles from the early church as seen in Numbers 13:21.