John 21:22

"Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?”"

Key Reflection

Peter's question reflects his concern for the future of John, yet it also reveals a limited understanding of divine sovereignty. Through Peter's query, Jesus underscores the mystery and importance of faithfulness in the face of uncertainty, as he shifts focus to his own coming mission and the broader purpose beyond personal desires.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 22. That he tarry. That he live. The same word is used to express life in Php 1:24,25; 1 Co 15:6. Till I come. Some have supposed this to refer to the destruction of Jerusalem; others to the day of judgment; others to signify that he would not die a violent death; but the plain meaning is, "If I will that he should not die at all, it is nothing to thee." In this way the apostles evidently understood it, and hence raised a report that he would not die. It is remarkable that John was the last of the apostles; that he lived to nearly the close of the first century, and then died a peaceful death at Ephesus, being the only one, as is supposed, of the apostles who did not suffer martyrdom.

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