Verses 1-14
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Notice that Peter was content to go fishing—a familiar activity and one he was skilled in, even as he waited in Galilee.
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Know that it is ok to enjoy activities as followers of Jesus. Peter was not abandoning Jesus to go fishing. He was still a faithful disciple. You too can still be a faithful disciple and enjoy a recreational activity or venture for financial gain.
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Notice that Jesus appeared to them here in an environment that was very ordinary—fishing, a campfire, breakfast, etc. It even seems that Jesus ate with them.
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This establishes an often neglected fact, Jesus rose in a glorified but physical body. He could even eat with them. Jesus was no phantom or mere spirit when He rose. As it is written, “For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have” (Luke 24:39).
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Verses 15-17
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Just as Peter denied Jesus three times, Jesus asked him the same question three times, and three times gave him nearly the same answer. Peter needed to hear what Jesus said three times, likely because of how important it was, and as a means of restoring him after he had denied Jesus three times.
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In order for Peter to love Jesus, he needed to show it by his service to the church, feeding the flock of God.
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Understand that you show your love to Jesus by loving and caring for others, and especially other believers. If you love Jesus more than you love anyone else, and if you will love Him more than anyone else loves Him, it's all about how much you love and serve others. Remember this!
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Verses 18-23
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Now Jesus tells Peter that he would died for Him. Persecution would result in his death. But he was reassured that his death would glorify God. And he was to follow Jesus still, even though he would be following Him to his death.
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Remember that dying for one's faith glorifies God. Do not be afraid of persecution. Even in the face of pain or death, follow Him still.
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Now we turn to John. After Peter heard what would become of him, he wanted to hear about John, as a way of comparing himself to him.
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Don't look at what God is giving to another believer, thinking that you have it harder than they do, and so compare yourself, envy, or scoff. Focus on your own walk, and follow Jesus for yourself.
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Remember that God's will for your tasks is different than His will for those of others, and His will is what's best. Be content with His will for your life!
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Jesus reply to Peter is convicting, saying essentially, “I said you're going to die for Me, but what will become of John is not your concern. Even if I told you that John will not die, what difference does it make? Mind your own business.”
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If we focus so much on someone else's calling or purpose, whether it be in pride, judgment, envy, comparison, or amazement, we will neglect our own obedience. Avoid this attitude, and focus on your own obedience!
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Verses 24-25
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The information about Jesus that we have from John and from the other three gospels is 100% truth!
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And even though there is much more about Jesus that we do not know, what we have is enough for what we need today. Know this and focus on the Word!

