Book of John - Chapter 21 - Verse 17

In this verse from the Bible, Jesus is asking Peter three times if he truly loves Him. Each time Peter responds affirmatively, but he is grieved that Jesus has to ask him repeatedly. The three-fold questioning mirrors Peter's earlier three denials of Jesus. By asking Peter three times if he loves Him, Jesus is giving Peter the opportunity to reaffirm his love and commitment to Him. After Peter responds, Jesus instructs him to "Feed my sheep," which can be interpreted as a command for Peter to nurture and care for the followers of Christ, guiding them in their faith and helping them grow spiritually. This verse highlights the importance of love and service in the Christian faith, emphasizing the relationship between love for Jesus and the responsibility to serve and care for others in His name.

In this verse, Jesus is having a significant conversation with Simon Peter after his resurrection. The repetition of the question, "Lovest thou me?" three times by Jesus to Peter has deep theological implications. Some scholars believe that the threefold questioning mirrors Peter's three denials of Christ before His crucifixion. By asking Peter if he loves Him three times, Jesus is giving Peter the opportunity to reaffirm his love and commitment to Him. It also symbolizes the restoration of Peter's relationship with Jesus. Peter's response, "Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee," shows his humility and recognition of Jesus' divine knowledge. Furthermore, Jesus instructs Peter to "Feed my sheep," underscoring Peter's role as a shepherd and leader in the early Christian church. This verse serves as a reminder of Jesus' forgiveness, restoration, and commissioning of Peter to continue His ministry on earth.