Scripture in Action

Aneel Aranha is an author, preacher, and evangelist who has spoken to hundreds of thousands of people around the world. You can find a huge selection of his reflections, articles, sermons, songs and other resources on his app.

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Scripture in Action

John 21:20-23 - What About Him?

July 16, 2024 • Aneel Aranha • Season 2 • Episode 192

0:00 | 4:21

In John 21:20-23, Jesus responds to Peter's question about John, teaching us to focus on our own path of discipleship rather than comparing ourselves to others.

John 21:20-23 - What About Him? — Aneel Aranha

Hello and welcome to the Bite-Sized Gospel. Today, we will reflect on John 21:20-23. Listen.

Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?") When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." Because of this, the rumor spread among the believers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"

In this passage, we see a very human moment from Peter. Having just been told about his own future martyrdom, he turns and asks about John's fate. It's a natural response - we often want to know how our lot in life compares to others, especially those close to us.

Jesus' response is both sharp and profound: "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." In essence, Jesus is telling Peter to focus on his own path of discipleship rather than comparing his journey with others.

This exchange teaches us several important lessons about discipleship and our relationship with Christ. First, it highlights the danger of comparison. When we compare our calling or circumstances with others, we can easily become distracted from our own path of discipleship. Jesus' sharp response to Peter reminds us that our focus should be on our own journey, not on how it measures up to others.

Moreover, this passage underscores the uniqueness of each person's calling. God's plan for each of us is individual and personal. What he has in store for one person may be entirely different from his plan for another, and that's okay. This understanding should free us from the burden of trying to emulate someone else's spiritual journey.

Jesus' repeated command to Peter, "You must follow me," emphasizes the importance of focusing on our own relationship with Christ. Our primary concern should be how we are responding to Jesus' call in our own lives, not how others are faring in their walk with him.

Lastly, the disciples' misinterpretation of Jesus' words about John serves as a cautionary tale. It reminds us to be careful about drawing conclusions from speculation or hearsay. In matters of faith, it's crucial to rely on what Scripture clearly states rather than on rumors or misunderstandings that can easily spread.

Jesus' words challenge us to resist the temptation to compare our spiritual journey with others. Our call is to follow him, regardless of what he may have planned for someone else.

As we reflect on this passage, let's ask ourselves: Do I find myself comparing my spiritual journey with others? Am I focused on following Jesus, or am I distracted by what he might be doing in someone else's life? How can I better concentrate on my own path of discipleship?

May we have the wisdom to focus on our own relationship with Christ. May we trust in his unique plan for each of us. And may we always keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, following him wholeheartedly wherever he leads.

God bless you.