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Jesus Reinstates Peter 15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” 16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. --- John 21:15-17 In this beach scene, Jesus led Peter through an experience that would remove the cloud of his denial. Peter had denied Jesus three times. Three times Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. When Peter answered yes, Jesus told him to feed his sheep. It is one thing to say you love Jesus, but the real test is willingness to serve him. Peter had repented, and here Jesus was asking him to commit his life. Peter’s life changed when he finally realized who Jesus was. His occupation changed from fisherman to evangelist; his identity changed from impetuous to “rock”; and his relationship to Jesus changed---he was forgiven, and he finally understood the significance of Jesus; words about his death and resurrection. Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved him. The first time Jesus said, “Do you love (Greek agape: volitional. Self-sacrificial love) me more than these?” The second time, Jesus focused on Peter alone and still used the word translated into Greek, agape. The third time, Jesus used the word translated into Greek, phileo (signifying affection, affinity, or brotherly love) and asked, in effect, “Are you even my friend?" Each time Peter responded with the word translated into Greek as phileo. Jesus doesn’t settle for quick, superficial answers, He has a way of getting to the heart of the matter. Peter had to face his true feelings and motives when Jesus confronted him. How would you respond if Jesus asked you, “Do you love me? Do you really love me? Are you even my friend?” Dear Lord, You are full of mercy and grace. I repent for the times of being unfaithful. I acknowledge my failures and pray for Your forgiveness. Help me not despair in shame and humility. Restore me and renew me to healing. Make my brokenness to be whole. Help me find confidence in You and may I not fail when You ask. I will answer with full of joy and without any reservation. I love You, Lord. I love You, Lord. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen