John 21 - Africa Study Bible

No Plan B • John 21:1-6

Three years of adventure with the God-man were over for the disciples. What was next? Did they have a backup plan, what people in business call a Plan B?

Many people keep a Plan B just in case things do not go the way they want. For example, a pastor who cannot pay the school fees for his children might abandon the pastorate for business. This may not be wrong, but he needs to be certain that his plans are part of God’s Plan A. God’s will must be at the centre.

Others may find that Jesus does not make them rich or take away all their trouble or give them constant happiness. So they decide to turn away and go back to the life they had before. This is not God’s way. It is outside Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

These seven disciples returned home to familiar territory and a familiar task—fishing. They were obeying Jesus’ command to wait for him in Galilee (Matthew 28:10). So was the adventure with Jesus over? No! Jesus came to them on the beach to tell them his plan. Through a miraculous catch of fish, Jesus confirmed his ongoing call on their lives.

When we follow Jesus, we should not keep a Plan B that is different from his overall plan. We must follow him without looking back. Yes, the adventure is ahead!

When something is important, the Igbos of Nigeria have the tendency to repeat instructions. Sometimes they call for someone’s attention three times. Each time they hold their ears, signifying the seriousness of the issue. The Igbos are asking listeners to think deeply about their response or what their actions mean. Often the listener has done or is about to do something inappropriate and foolish.

Love and loving are central themes in the Gospel of John. Peter did not show this love when he denied Jesus three times. Now, with Jesus asking three times, Peter is reminded of the importance to remain focussed. Jesus’ instructions to Peter are about selfless love as demonstrated by Jesus himself. Jesus is saying to Peter as he is saying to you: “Peter, Peter, Peter, do not abandon me. Show me your love by taking care of my people.”

Feed My Sheep • John 21:15-19

Christian ministries often have mission statements that spell out their convictions, vision, and purpose. Many pursue their calling with the correct motivation. However, for others there is little difference between them and unbelieving businessmen. Power, fame, money, and position continue to be a leading motivation for service. What would Jesus say about that?

Jesus demonstrated his love for us, his “lambs” and “sheep,” by laying down his life for us. When we are told to feed his sheep, we are being entrusted with his most valued possession. Jesus identifies the proper motivation for Christian ministry. He asks the one great question that must be reflected upon and answered by each person in ministry: “Do you love me?”

As with Peter’s response, our answer to this question cannot be superficial. Jesus already knows our hearts. It is an important question because the answer qualifies us (or disqualifies us) from ministry. True and effective ministry to God’s people must flow out of our love for Christ. Our love for Jesus will be reflected in our love for his sheep. This love is our calling.