Fellowship by the Sea
January 24, 2020
Commentary
Jesus already had his own fish and bread cooking over a charcoal fire (v. 9). John specifically told us that Peter denied Jesus thrice standing next to a similar charcoal fire (John 18:18). Jesus was preparing Peter’s heart for the lesson He was about to teach him. The presence of bread and fish also reminds us of the feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:9). Jesus has the power to provide for those who trust Him.
Jesus requested that they bring some of the fish they had just caught (v. 10). Jesus brought the fish so the disciples could catch them. In the same way, Jesus is the one who brings people to salvation. We are commanded to boldly go and bear witness, but it’s ultimately Jesus who saves the lost. John tells us that 153 fish were caught that day. This adds a level of relatability and credibility. After all, what fisherman wouldn’t be able to tell you exactly how many fish they had caught on a given day?
Jesus arranged for a time of much needed fellowship with Peter and the other disciples (vv. 12-13). This fellowship is precious, both to Jesus and to those who love him (1 John 1:3). There’s no doubt that God is more concerned with our Spiritual condition than with our Physical needs. However, God in his wisdom knows to tend to our physical needs as a way of preparing us for spiritual growth and healing. Sometimes the best way to get to get through to someone’s heart is through their stomach. This was the third time that Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead (v. 14).
Application
God does not settle for casual acquaintance with his followers. He longs for fellowship with his children. Am I denying Him? How can I increase my time with God today? Is there something in my life that prevents me from seeking deeper fellowship with God?
John 21:9– 14 (NET)
9 When they got out on the beach, they saw a charcoal fire ready with a fish placed on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said, “Bring some of the fish you have just now caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and pulled the net to shore. It was full of large fish, 153, but although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 “Come, have breakfast,” Jesus said. But none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
Illustration: Little boy said Jesus wasn’t there
I once heard the story of a little boy who was taken to a new Sunday School class by his parents. His mother told him, “They will play some games, sing songs and then you will be introduced to Jesus.” When he came home his father asked him how he got along in Sunday School. His son said, “We played games and sang songs but Jesus wasn’t there. I’m afraid this is true in many Churches today. We need to be very careful that we are not just playing Church but truly spending time with the Lord in our private devotions and public worship. (Lou Nicholes – Missionary/Author).