What does John 21:22 mean?

Explanation

John 21:22 is a part of the conversation between Jesus Christ and Peter after Jesus' resurrection.

Here, Jesus is responding to Peter's curiosity about the fate of another disciple, traditionally understood to be John.

When Peter sees John following them, he asks Jesus what will happen to him.

Jesus emphasizes that Peter should not be concerned with what God's will is for someone else.

The focus should be on his own following of Jesus, regardless of the destiny that awaits others.

This verse speaks to the personal nature of discipleship and cautions against comparison and concern over God's plan for other individuals.

Historical Context

The Gospel of John was the last of the four canonical gospels to be written, around the end of the first century.

This passage is part of the final chapter in John's Gospel, which contains several post-resurrection appearances of Jesus.

He appears to the disciples, reinstates Peter after his threefold denial, and hints at the future that awaits both Peter and John.

At the time, there were likely rumors and speculation within the early Christian community about the roles and fates of the apostles, as well as questions of authority and leadership as the eyewitness generation aged and faced death.

Theological Insights

Interpretations of this verse vary among Christian traditions.

From a theological perspective, this passage highlights the notion of God's individual call to each person. It reflects the understanding that each disciple has a unique path and underscores the importance of personal obedience to Jesus' call rather than preoccupation with others' destinies.

Furthermore, this verse has been cited in discussions about the end times and the return of Jesus, with some traditions suggesting that the beloved disciple would live until the Second Coming.

However, this is more widely interpreted as a rhetorical device used by Jesus to stress that the timing of His plans is not Peter's concern.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can be applied to discouraging comparisons among believers.

Instead of being preoccupied with others, individuals are encouraged to focus on their own spiritual journey and relationship with God.

It also serves as a lesson in trusting God's unique plan for each person and avoiding judgments or assumptions based on appearances.

Cross-References

• Matthew 16:24 - Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
• Matthew 8:22 - But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.
• 1 Corinthians 7:17 - But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk.

And so ordain I in all churches.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase "If I will" (εἰ θέλω) indicates Jesus' sovereignty and authority over His decisions.

The term "tarry" (μένειν) can mean to "remain," "stay," or "abide," and may carry the sense of enduring until a certain time.

The phrase "till I come" (ἕως ἔρχομαι) is understood by some to refer to the Second Coming of Christ.

Finally, "follow thou me" (ἀκολούθει μοι) is a direct command emphasizing personal discipleship and obedience.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religious systems, there often existed a preoccupation with the destiny of religious leaders and the intertwining of their fates with cosmic events.

For instance, in some Greco-Roman myths, the lives of demi-gods or heroes were closely connected with the fate of the world.

In contrast, Jesus’ statement pushes against the idea of the disciples or followers having cosmically intertwined destinies, focusing instead on personal commitment and discipleship.

Scientific Perspectives

While the content of John 21:22 is primarily theological and spiritual in nature, modern scientific understandings of individual psychology can offer insights into the human tendency towards comparison.

Psychological studies show that social comparison can lead to negative emotions like envy and reduced self-esteem.

From this perspective, the teaching of Jesus in this verse could be seen to align with principles that contribute to psychological well-being by encouraging a focus on personal goals and actions instead of comparison with others.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentators have offered perspectives on this verse.

For instance, Matthew Henry views it as a rebuke to Peter's potentially impertinent curiosity about John's fate, emphasizing personal responsibility.

William Barclay notes that Christians are not to be concerned with God's will for others but to follow their own path as directed by Christ.

Meanwhile, the Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges suggests that the "coming" referred to may not necessarily be the Second Coming but could be the coming of Christ in death or in the Spirit.

This variety of interpretations showcases the depths of discussion and thought that have revolved around this seemingly simple exchange between Jesus and Peter.