5/7/11 John 21:20-23

²⁰ Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) ²¹ When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”
²² Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” ²³ Because of this, the rumor spread among the believers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”

(John the Evangelist- Greek icon 18th century)

Thoughts: "The disciple whom Jesus loved" is a title clothed in secrecy.  Yet it is a secret that everyone knows. It is a title humble, yet proud.  It is humble in that the writer is in a sense, anonymous.  Yet it is amazingly proud, yet true that John could be so assured of Christ's love.  In some ways, to make the claim that Christ loves us and we can actually know God- is an astounding and bold claim.  But it is a claim confirmed by faith combined with the knowledge of who Christ is.  To say that there is any meaning or hope in life is also a bold claim.  John was the last of the disciples, perhaps the last eyewitness to Christ's earthly ministry.  Jesus asks Peter not to compare, but to find contentment in God's will. 

Prayer: May I live assured of your love, content with your will for me.




John Calvin Abridged: In Peter, we have an example of the danger and harm of curiosity, when we forget to find peace in our own duty to God (Gal. 6:5).  This is a reproof to those who would look all around in curiosity.  We all face different trials and times of ease, but we should be concerned what God calls us to face.  Christ cuts him short by reminding he must face his own calling, and he has no right to inquire what other people will do.