John 21:1-14
Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee.[a] It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus[b]), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”
“No,” they answered.
6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.[c] 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.
Personal Reflection and Discussion
- They went fishing and caught nothing. If they were to reminisce during this struggle, what would come to mind? What might be some of their thoughts thinking back to memorable catches?
- Compare John 21:1-14 with Luke 5:1-10—another miraculous catch of fish. How are the two stories different and how are they similar?
- How have you received an abundance in your life because of Christ?
- Look at the Greek meaning of the words “revealed,” “knew,” and “raised.” Does knowing the greek meaning of these words add any new meaning to these verses?
- What is so special about sharing a meal with someone, and why do you suppose Jesus extended this invitation?
Prayer
Jesus, You continually met with your disciples even after you died and rose again. Thank you for continually meeting with me. Guide me to continually meet with you, not only because of the blessings, but because a relationship with you, my Lord and my God!
Greek Words of the Day
English Word: revealed | Transliterated Word: phaneroo
To render apparent: appear, make clear, clearly see, disclose, display, be known, manifest, to manifest oneself
English Word: knew | Transliterated Word: eido
Be sure, tell, understand
English Word: raise | Transliterated Word: egeiro
Approach, at hand, come, come up,
Family Engagement Activity
Plan to make breakfast for someone this week.
Going Activities To Consider
Plan to enjoy a meal with someone today. Consider giving them a meal to give to someone else.