Lesson 456: John 21:15
John 21:15
The Blueprint — The Verse
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
Memorization Practice
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Scripture quotations marked NIV are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
The Context — The History
After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to disciples by the Sea of Galilee. Peter had denied Jesus three times and likely wondered whether he still had a place among the apostles.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Jesus provided a miraculous catch of fish and shared breakfast with disciples. He restored Peter with three questions about love, commissioning him to feed His lambs and sheep after each confession.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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John 21:14
14This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (John 21:14) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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John 21:16
16Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (John 21:16) to continue the passage.
Discussion
- How does Jesus restore leaders who have failed?
- What does feeding His lambs look like in your context?
- Why does Jesus tie service to love rather than guilt?