Book of John - Chapter 21 - Verse 14

After Jesus was crucified and rose from the dead, he appeared to his disciples on multiple occasions. The verse "This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead" highlights the significance of Jesus' appearances in confirming his resurrection and reinforcing his teachings to his followers. Each time Jesus appeared to his disciples, it served as a powerful demonstration of his victory over death and the fulfillment of his promise to return to them. These appearances also provided encouragement and reassurance to the disciples, strengthening their faith and preparing them for their future mission of spreading the gospel. The repetition of Jesus' appearances underscored the importance of these encounters in solidifying the disciples' belief in his divinity and the reality of his resurrection.

In this particular verse, the theological interpretation focuses on the significance of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances to his disciples. The mention of this being the third time Jesus appeared to them serves to emphasize the reality of his resurrection. It highlights the fact that Jesus was indeed alive and not simply a spirit or a figment of their imagination. The repeated appearances also underscore the importance of Jesus' ongoing presence with his followers even after his physical death. This verse resonates with the core Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus and his victory over death. Word studies on phrases such as "shewed himself" and "disciples" can further enhance our understanding of the depth of Jesus' interactions with his followers during this crucial period. Overall, this verse points to the continuity of Jesus' ministry and his continued care for his disciples, even in the midst of their doubts and confusion.