John 21
by Philip Layton
Jesus guides the disciples to a miraculous catch of fish and reinstates Peter
Discussion Questions
- Is there any reason for mentioning that 153 large fish were caught (v 11)?
- In verse 15 is Jesus referring to the other disciples or the fish?
- Verse 24 identifies the beloved disciple as the Gospel writer.
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Going Deeper from 'Words of Life'
While studying English literature at university, in my final year I was privileged to attend two lectures on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet given by a professor who was a world-renowned expert on that play. I arrived at the first lecture to find the lecture theatre close to full rather than the usual half-full status and was told by a friend, as we took our seats, that some former students and other tutors also chose to attend this professor’s lectures.
I discovered why – the lecture was brilliant! The professor provided us with some insightful comments on one of history’s greatest plays.
A week later, it was time for his second lecture. It was, I confess, the only lecture in three years of university for which I woke up early and excited, and I took my seat in the lecture theatre well before time. Amazingly, the lecture was even more stunning than the first and concluded with a standing ovation for the lecturer.
In the week leading up to his crucifixion, Jesus taught at the temple each day and the crowds went there early to – I imagine – get a good seat and not miss a word from this master teacher. Do you ever get excited about learning something new from Jesus? There are times when a familiar Scripture passage suddenly comes alive with new meaning for me and I gain a fresh insight into who Jesus is. It’s thrilling to learn from the Master!
Who did the crowds at the temple believe Jesus was? They believed he was a wise teacher, worthy of their attention. In the next few days, however, they would learn he was much, much more.
Today
Reflect for a moment on something you have learnt recently about Jesus, then reflect on something that God has revealed to you about yourself.
Beverly Ivany
Photos courtesy of freebibleimages.org