John 21:17

"He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I have affection for you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.”"

Key Reflection

In John 21:17, Jesus asks Peter a third and final time about his love, pressing the point with a more direct command: "Feed my sheep." This repeated questioning, occurring after two previous affirmations of Peter's love, underscores the gravity of Peter’s role as a leader. The command to shepherd is significant, as it shifts from personal affirmation to a directive that Peter must now embody leadership and care for the flock, reflecting Jesus’ own mission on behalf of his disciples. This moment encapsulates both Peter's affirmation of loyalty and the weighty responsibility he will bear in Jesus' absence.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 17. The third time. It is probable that Jesus proposed this question three times because Peter had thrice denied him. Thus he tenderly admonished him of his fault and reminded him of his sin, while he solemnly charged him to be faithful and vigilant in the discharge of the duties of the pastoral office. The reason why the Saviour addressed Peter in this manner was doubtless because he had just denied him--had given a most melancholy instance of the instability and weakness of his faith, and of his liability to fall. As he had thus been prominent in forsaking him, he took this occasion to give to him a special charge, and to secure his future obedience.

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