Elephant in the Room

4^TH and 1

The Elephant in the Room

2 Loose-ends are dealt with in the epilogue (chapter 21).

First, what are the disciples to do with their lives once literally following Jesus around is no longer an option? To this, 21:1-14 shows that they are to continue the mission of reaching all kinds of people for the Kingdom.

Second, what about Peter’s three denials (Matt 10:33)? Was his relationship with Jesus ever fully restored? Here (John 21:15-22), the 4^th Gospel deals with this issue.

During the Last Supper, Peter confidently stated his willingness to die for the Lord. In reply, Jesus predicted a triple denial on that very night (13:37-38). Indeed, Peter did deny the Lord 3 times while warming himself by a fire (18:17, 25, 27).

Jesus brings the issue of Peter’s denial to the ‘table’ by calling him Simon (21:15), asking how his love compared to that of the other disciples’ (Mark 14:29), and by repeating the question three times.

Peter’s response demonstrated that he was humbled and broken over his previous sins. Jesus not only restored him to vocational ministry, but prophesied that Peter would, indeed, die a martyr’s death. Peter could best serve the church by continuing to follow Jesus himself.

The ‘Beloved Disciple’ wrote the 4^th Gospel. He has been an ideal witness throughout the narrative. His contribution, however, covers just a small part of what could have been written about Jesus’ life and ministry.