The Epilogue - 10: A Leader Restored
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 01 2024 | John 21:5-8
KEY VERSE:
That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" John 21:7a (ESV)
MESSAGE:
Today’s focus concludes our reflections on the key verse. Why did John’s exclamation, “It is the Lord,” go to Peter specifically and not someone else, not even his own brother? This becomes significant when we recall Peter’s recent failure in denying Christ (Luke 22:61). Yet, to the disciples, Peter remained their leader.
In John 20:2, when Mary Magdalene found the empty tomb, she ran to inform Peter and John. This suggests that Peter was still regarded as a leader despite his shortcomings. Furthermore, in John 21:1, the other disciples followed Peter when he decided to go fishing, further underscoring his leadership role.
More importantly, Jesus’ attitude toward Peter reveals something profound. In Luke 22:31-32, Jesus forewarned Peter of Satan’s plan to sift him but assured him of His intercession. When Peter denied Christ, Luke 22:61 recounts Jesus’ compassionate look—an expression of love, not condemnation.
Peter’s actions speak volumes too. His bitter weeping (Luke 22:62) reflects true repentance, while his immediate response to John’s declaration in John 21:7 indicates a heart eager to reconcile with his Saviour. The grace of reconciliation is always within reach for those who earnestly seek the Saviour.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Never underestimate the schemes of the enemy. Take God’s warnings about Satan seriously, resist him, and remain steadfast in prayer to seek deliverance from his traps. PRAYER:
Lord, grant me godly sorrow over my sins and the grace to return quickly to You. Keep me alert to the enemy’s schemes and help me to remain steadfast in Your truth. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: LOVED
The Greek word for loved in John 21:7a is ἀγαπάω (agapaō), derived from the root ἀγάπη (agapē), meaning selfless, unconditional love. This term is central in the New Testament to describe God’s love for humanity (e.g., John 3:16) and Christ’s love for His disciples (John 13:34). Unlike φιλέω (phileō), which implies affectionate love or friendship, agapaō conveys a deeper, sacrificial love rooted in divine commitment and purpose.
The term "loved" emphasizes the deep, sacrificial affection Jesus had for John, marking a relationship of profound intimacy and trust. This divine love heightened John's spiritual sensitivity, enabling him to recognize Jesus' presence. It reflects the transformative impact of Christ’s love, calling believers into a deeper connection with God and an enhanced ability to discern His movements in their lives.
Reflection:
The love of Christ is not a distant concept but a transformative force that sharpens our spiritual vision. As recipients of agapē, how can we live in ways that reflect this profound and unconditional love for others?
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