Scripture: John 21:19b-25
Introduction:
In the final chapter of John’s Gospel, we witness a powerful moment between Jesus and Peter. After the resurrection, Jesus offers Peter a chance for restoration, asking him three times if he loves Him, and each time, commanding Peter to feed His sheep. This passage reveals more than a simple exchange between the two; it speaks of discipleship, commitment, and the calling we each receive to follow Christ with love and purpose.
1. The Call to Follow (John 21:19b)
“Follow me!” Jesus’ words are simple but profound. This is not just a call to physical movement, but to a life marked by deep commitment and devotion. In the previous chapters, Peter had failed—denying Jesus three times, but in this moment, Jesus restores him. Despite our failures, Jesus still calls us to follow. The call to follow Jesus is not based on our perfection, but on our willingness to surrender, trust, and respond to His love.
In our own lives, we are constantly faced with the question: Will we follow Jesus? Will we choose to walk in His ways, even when the path is difficult? The call is open to all who are willing to surrender to His love.
2. Love as the Foundation of Discipleship (John 21:15-17)
When Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” He isn’t questioning Peter’s affection, but rather the depth of his commitment. To love Jesus is to be willing to serve Him with all we are. Jesus does not ask for just intellectual belief, but for a love that leads to action—feeding His sheep, caring for others, and living in obedience to His will.
Our love for Christ is the driving force of our discipleship. How often do we forget that true love for Christ is shown not in words, but in actions? Are we feeding His sheep—serving others, reaching out to the lost, and caring for the needy?
3. Embracing Our Unique Purpose (John 21:18-19)
Jesus speaks to Peter about his future, about the way he will die, and yet, He calls him to follow Him. Jesus does not promise a smooth or easy journey, but a meaningful one. Discipleship is not about seeking comfort but embracing the purpose that God has for each of us, no matter the cost. Just as Peter was given a specific calling, so are we.
Are we willing to accept the unique purpose that God has for our lives? Each of us is called to a different path, but all of us are called to follow Jesus with love and purpose. God has a plan for each of us, and it is our privilege to walk in it.
4. The Promise of God’s Presence (John 21:22-23)
Jesus tells Peter to focus on following Him and not be concerned with the path of others. It’s a reminder that our journey of faith is personal and unique. Jesus assures us that He is with us every step of the way. Even when the road seems uncertain or challenging, His presence is constant.
When we follow Christ, we are never alone. His presence, power, and peace guide us. We must trust that God knows the way, even when we can’t see the next step.
Conclusion:
The call to follow Jesus is a call to live with love and purpose. Just as Peter was restored and called to lead, we too are called to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Our love for Jesus must be the foundation of everything we do, and this love leads us to serve others and fulfill the unique purpose God has set before us.
May we respond to His call with the same enthusiasm, commitment, and obedience that Peter did, knowing that we do not walk this journey alone, but with the love and presence of Christ guiding us each step of the way.
Let us follow Christ with love and purpose, for in doing so, we will find fulfillment in His service and glory in His name. Amen.
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