Do You Love Me? John 21:15-23

Introduction Common views Emphasis on the “threes” Peter’s unwillingness to fully commit Good question to consider

Introduction Two different Greek words Meant nothing at times Same context suggests significance What is the significance?

Usage of The Words First word: agapao Means to seek another’s well being and interest, and involves active good will Familiar passage (John 3:16) Most frequently used word for love

Usage of The Words Second word: phileo Means tender affection and the idea of cherishing Feelings versus action Used in compound words (Romans 12:10; 1 Timothy 6:10; Titus 3:4)

Usage of The Words Both used God’s love for Christ (John 3:35; 5:20) God’s love for man (John 14:21; 16:27) Christ’s love for His disciples (John 13:23; 20:2)

Usage of The Words “The context itself indicates that agapao in the first two questions suggests the love that values and esteems. It is an unselfish love, ready to serve. The use of phileo in Peter’s answers and the Lord’s third question conveys the thought of cherishing the object above all else, of manifesting an affection characterized by constancy, from the highest veneration.” (W.E. Vine)

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Walked on water (Matthew 14:22-31) Thought Jesus was a ghost Peter asked to be able to walk to Him Failed but at least he tried

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Bold assertion (John 6:66-69) Crowds left after eating Question to the apostles Peter’s answer

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life His confession (Matthew 16:13-19) Jesus’ question Peter’s answer

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Attempt to protect Jesus (Matthew 16:21-23) Announced His suffering and death Peter’s rebuke Satan’s use of others to discourage

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Peter’s commitment (John 13:3-11) Final meal Washed the disciples’ feet Peter’s objection Lord’s response Peter’s final word

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Denial foretold (Mark 14:27-31) Peter’s response: “I’ll die first” Meant what he said (John 18:10, 11) Lord prayed for him (Luke 22:31-34)

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Fight to save Jesus (John 18:10, 11) Tried to keep them from taking Him Jesus restored the servant’s ear

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Peter’s denials (Luke 22:54-62) Lord turned and looked at Peter Peter wept bitterly

Key to Understanding: Peter’s Life Returned to fishing (John 21:1-22) Jumped into the sea (v. 7) Trying to get to the Lord first?

Significance of The Question Peter’s attempt to convey his love Involved active good will More than that, he cherished the Lord Given his “marching orders” The proof: feeding the sheep Demonstrated his love

Conclusion Do you love the Lord more than anyone or anything else? Why not obey the Gospel?