Question

Think about a time when you put faith in a stranger. How did it turn out? In the following passage, some of Jesus’ disciples put faith in what they are told to do by someone they do not recognize as Jesus. They heed the words of a stranger and it pays off with a net-load of fish. Read the passage John 21:1-14; use the following commentaries if you need some guidance: Commentaries on John 21. The passage describes a meal between Jesus and his disciples. Describe the context of this passage. What do you think the disciples were thinking throughout their experience with Jesus? Why do you think Jesus met them? What does this passage mean to you?

Answer 1

I never dared to trust a stranger fearing the impact it could bring in my life. From reading the passage John 21 versus 1 to 14 I am given to understand that Jesus appears to His disciples after His resurrection. Jesus reveals Himself to His disciples the third time in this passage after His resurrection.The Disciples had given up ministering unto the Lord because of fearing the Jewish people. They went back to their normal life seeking their livelihood.In the sea of Tiberius they were toiling all night to catch some fish, but it left them to disappointment. And it almost dawned and then they see a stranger directing them by talking to them. The stranger (Jesus) asks them if they could get some fish and the disciples reply no. Then he directs them to cast their net on the right side of the river. This shows that God is interested in our daily life, chores of life. When we work according to His direction we will never go empty. The disciples net was full with 153 Fishes.And then John identifyies Jesus. Peter jumps into the water to reach to the shore to meet Jesus.

Probably they could not identify Jesus at the beginning as they should have been disappointment with getting no fishes after toiling the whole night. And they were so weary that they were ready to listen to strangers' advice of casting net. Then Jesus on the shore calls them to have breakfast with them. It shows how Jesus was humble to have fellowship with the disciples who had left Him. He appears before them to quicken the faith in Him to carry on with the mission and to accomplish the very purpose of their lives.

Throughout these experience the disciples chose to be quiet by not asking questions to Him, for they knew it was Him. Probably they were feeling sorry for what they were doing. And obvyshould have enjoyed fellowship with Jesus. This passage tells me to trust Jesus, listen to His direction in life, which would keep me on track. Whoever believes in Him will never put to shame or go hungry or empty handed but would be rewarded.