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“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” (John 21:25)

As Peter is recommissioned for Christian service, we see two particular tools on show in John 21. The first is forgiveness, with Jesus asking Peter three times “do you love me?” having been denied three times before (John 18:17, 25-27). Forgiveness removes the barrier of sin, crucial for serving Christ and Peter discovered, like Paul in 1 Timothy 1:12-16, that no matter how desperate his failure, how deep-seated his shame, the Lord can and does forgive, renewing us for use in His kingdom service. The second is obedience, as Jesus prophesied that Peter follow Jesus to death; in verse 18, “you will stretch our your hands”. Somewhat flustered by this commission, Peter wants to know the commission for the his fellow disciple, John (in verses 20-21). Jesus essentially invites Peter to mind his own business and be obedient to the calling he has been given. This reminds us all to avoid the dangers of coveting and comparison. To be obedient to the call Jesus has given us and not another person. The final verse of this chapter is wonderful. We know so much about Jesus from this gospel and the whole word of God, but this is just a foretaste of His beauty and wonder. As one Bible Commentator puts it, “in eternity our exploration will go on in ways at present beyond our imagining as we discover more and yet more of ‘the unsearchable riches of Christ.” Amen!