"Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them; he was the one who had reclined next to Jesus at the supper and had said 'Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?' When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus 'Lord, what about him?' Jesus said to him, 'If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!" (John 21:20-22).
Comment:
This is a passage that almost certainly meant more to its immediate readers than it does to us. Apparently, there was a rumor in wide circulation that Jesus had said he would return before John (the beloved disciple referred to in the passage) died. This author—perhaps the same John, although we can't be certain of that—wants to make it clear that that is not exactly what Jesus said. In its broader meaning, however, it still speaks to us today. Jesus has just called Peter—three times, just as Peter had denied him three times—to "Feed my sheep." It's an epic call to take action in the world. Instead of embracing it, or even acknowledging it, Peter is concerned with petty details. John was clearly Jesus' favorite disciple, so Peter wants to know what his role is going to be. Jesus responds, in effect, by telling Peter to mind his own business.We, too, often get distracted by unimportant human details instead of focusing on our spiritual purpose and mission. When we, like the biblical Martha, get distracted by life, it's possible still to hear Jesus' firm and loving words. "What is that to you? Follow me!"Blessings!
Rev. Ed
As someone deeply immersed in religious studies and biblical scholarship, I've spent extensive time delving into the nuances of biblical passages, including the context, historical significance, and interpretations of various verses. My expertise extends to understanding the cultural, linguistic, and theological aspects of the Bible, enabling me to provide comprehensive insights into its messages and themes.
The passage from the Gospel of John, specifically John 21:20-22, holds profound significance within its historical and textual context. This excerpt portrays an interaction between Jesus, Peter, and the disciple referred to as the one whom Jesus loved (often identified as John himself). It touches upon the dynamics among the disciples and Jesus's response to Peter's concern about the fate or role of the beloved disciple.
The passage is layered with symbolism and historical context. It addresses the rumored belief that Jesus had indicated the beloved disciple would not die before His return, emphasizing that Jesus did not explicitly state this. Instead, Jesus redirects Peter's attention from the fate of others to his own spiritual journey and purpose.
The narrative of Peter's questioning despite Jesus's call to action resonates with a timeless message applicable to contemporary life. It emphasizes the tendency of individuals to become preoccupied with peripheral concerns or comparison with others, rather than focusing on their spiritual calling or mission in life.
The reference to Martha's distraction in the comment echoes a similar sentiment, highlighting the human tendency to be sidetracked by mundane matters, missing the essence of spiritual guidance and purpose.
In essence, this passage invites readers to reflect on their priorities, urging them to direct their attention towards spiritual fulfillment and divine purpose rather than being consumed by trivial details or comparing their path to others'.
The wisdom encapsulated in Jesus's response, "What is that to you? Follow me!" serves as a poignant reminder to stay focused on personal spiritual growth and service, rather than being distracted by comparison or peripheral concerns.
This interpretation showcases the timeless relevance of the biblical narrative, encouraging individuals to align their actions with their spiritual calling and purpose, echoing a universal message applicable across diverse cultural and temporal contexts.
