Starter:
In pairs describe an event over Easter that made you really happy.
Reading: John 21:1-19.
Read the passage aloud, then give time to re-read it alone along with the commentary.
Reflect on the personal questions individually before sharing your reflections in threes.
Commentary:
This passage with its emphasis on Peter should be read in the light of Peter's last major role (John 18) – his denial of Jesus. Here he is still as committed to Jesus, still as impulsive, as he jumps boat to run to his Lord.
Perhaps it is significant that Peter and the other disciples go back to fishing, though Jesus' original calling and commissioning included leaving their nets, following him and being made into fishers of people. Often we
rely on our own resources and resort to what we're most familiar with.
Sometimes we are concerned that we don't have all the answers. Jesus' only question to Peter is 'Do you love me?' This is enough. First we have a relationship with Jesus, then belief.
Note also the reflection of the thrice denial in Jesus' question asked three times. Jesus challenges Peter to affirm his discipleship. However, the call to Peter, ‘follow me', takes on a new aspect when spoken by the One who had gone through death and been raised to life!
Personal reflection:
1. What thoughts come to mind as you read these verses?
What might God be saying to you?
2. How does the thought that Jesus forgave Peter for his
betrayal and affirmed him as a person encourage you to
believe that you too are forgiven, affirmed and challenged
to be a disciple?
3. What does it mean for you when Jesus says ‘Do you love me?
How does your answer influence what people see of Jesus
in you?
4. How can you help affirm other people in their discipleship?
Now discuss these questions together:
Life Focus:
1. If feeling affirmed builds us up,
how can we continue to affirm one another in
this group in order to be more effective disciples?
2. Which 'sheep' are not being well cared for now?
What will we do about it in the next two weeks?
Prayer:
Spend some time praying for those who feel failures in society. Try to be positive and give thanks for something that would affirm and encourage them.
