The Epilogue - 16: Loyalty in Response to His Love
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 7 2024 | John 21:15-17
KEY VERSE:
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, "Feed my lambs.”. John 21:15 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
John 21:15-17 is a much-discussed passage, at times, with hair-splitting theological points or arguments. Our focus will not allow us to get into that arena. It's instructive to note that Jesus's encounter with Peter comes after breakfast. True to His nature, Jesus satisfies the disciples' physical hunger before addressing deeper spiritual matters.
This reflects the character of our Sovereign God, who establishes a foundation for loyalty before demanding it. For instance, in Exodus 20, God called for Israel's unalloyed loyalty based on His deliverance of them from Egypt. Similarly, in Romans 12:1-2, we are urged to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, which is reasonable and acceptable because of our salvation.
In contrast, institutions disconnected from their members often demand loyalty without fostering meaningful relationships, resulting in indifference. However, where bonds are strong, loyalty knows no bounds. Consider the loyalty of David's men who risked their lives to fetch water for him (1 Chronicles 11:15-19). Why such devotion? As seen in 2 Samuel 22:1-2, David had given them a sense of purpose and relevance. When we experience true relevance and grace, our loyalty naturally flows as a heartfelt response. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Christ deserves our complete devotion for granting us salvation and purpose. Similarly, our denominations deserve loyalty for the identity they provide us.
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to give my best to You and to serve faithfully where You have placed me. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
DAILY word study: MORE THAN THESE The phrase “more than these” derives from the Greek words pleion touton (πλείον τούτων), with pleion indicating "more, greater, or superior," and touton referring to "these things." The phrase invites comparison and prioritization. Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me more than these?" (John 21:15). Scholars have interpreted “these” to refer to Peter’s fishing livelihood, the other disciples, or his former attachments. Jesus challenges Peter to reaffirm his love and commitment, emphasizing discipleship over earthly ties or past comforts. This question reflects Christ's demand for total devotion. It is a call for absolute loyalty to Him. We are to evaluate our priorities, ensuring Christ reigns supreme over possessions, relationships, and ambitions Reflections: Jesus’ question challenges us to prioritise Him above all. Does your love for Christ surpass everything else in your life?
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