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John 21 Summary

The Risen Jesus and Peter's Restoration

After his resurrection, Jesus appears to seven disciples fishing at the sea of Tiberias. When their night of fishing yields nothing, Jesus directs them to cast their net on the right side of the ship, and they catch a miraculous draught of one hundred fifty-three great fishes. Jesus prepares a meal of fish and bread for them on the shore. After they eat, Jesus thrice asks Peter if he loves him, and three times Peter affirms his love; each time Jesus commands him to feed his lambs and sheep, restoring Peter after his denials.

Key themes

Resurrection appearanceMiraculous catchRestoration of PeterShepherd callLove and obedience

Key verses

John 21:1

After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.

John 21:6

And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.

John 21:15-17

So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

John 21:18-19

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.

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