Jesus' disciples had just caught some fish---153 large ones. Upon Jesus' request, they brought it to Him. He told them to come and eat with Him. This was the third time He appeared before His disciples after He was raised from the dead. (See John 21:10-14)
After they 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.” (See John 21:15 - emphasis mine)
Again 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.” (John 21:16, NIV - emphasis mine)
The third time He said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?”
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love Me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.” (John 21:17, NIV - emphasis mine)
In this specific passage, Jesus wanted to know if one of His disciples named Simon Peter really loved Him. Before Jesus was crucified on the cross for the sins of the whole world, this particular disciple had denied even knowing Jesus---not just once but three times. (See John 3:16; John 18:15-18, 25-27)
Years ago, Jesus spoke to my heart about feeding His sheep. I did not completely understand it at the time. However, it has become more clear since then.
If we really love Jesus, we will do what He wants us to do and go where He wants us to go.
What is He speaking to you about now? Whatever it is, know that He loves you. Ask Him to help you to go and do whatever He is asking of you.
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV)
Copyright 2015 by Dawn Freeman. All rights reserved.
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