City Life Starter

Written by Blesson Selvanesan

The Word

¹⁵ 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.” ¹⁶ He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” ¹⁷ He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. (ESV)

Interpretation

Death was not the end of Jesus Christ. He conquered the death and rose again in a glorified body. People could see him and touch him. He even sat and had food with his disciples. However, he had a special connection with Peter and gave him a specific mandate. Before his death, Jesus had spoken about various things and what his disciples should do. His disciples had to tell the good news to all the world. Jesus had plans for all. He had to sit one on one with Peter.

Peter was the most flamboyant of all, he spoke more than any other disciples, he was at the front for everything. He was the most daring and charismatic of them all. However, he got scared and denied Jesus, and ran away after Jesus was arrested. He was bitter and crest fallen about that and wept, and asked for forgiveness.

Jesus knew the genuineness of Peter and wanted to talk to him personally. He sat with Peter and asked if he still loved Him. When Peter said He loved Jesus, Jesus told Peter to “Feed my sheep” and “Tend my sheep” to Peter. In essence, Jesus told Peter to do the same thing that he did while he was ministering. Just like as he told before, on this rock I will build my church, Jesus handed over his earthly ministry to His disciple. Peter was asked to do this not out of fear, but out of love.  

Application

Jesus always knew that he had to leave the earth one day. He was preparing a team to continue the ministry and His mission. This incident clearly shows how much Jesus cared for Peter. He did not want Peter to remain in his guilt. Peter was given his mandate and was promised the Holy Spirit, who will give power to him to achieve that mandate. We learn that Jesus cares for His people despite all of the weaknesses. He has a great plan for all and has empowered us through the Holy Spirit to achieve that plan. We do not just have the means, but also have the power to live according to His calling and fulfill His mission.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thanks for being our Lord. We cannot thank you enough that you care and give responsibilities to all of us. Help us to live for you just like Peter did, In Jesus Name, Amen.