John 21:15-19

"When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?'

'Yes, Lord,' he said, 'you know that I love you.'

Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.'

Again Jesus said, 'Simon son of John, do you turely love me?'

He answered, 'Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.'

Jesus said, 'Take care of my sheep.'

The thrid 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. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out you hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, 'Follow me!"

Several Points to Ponder

Peter had disowned Jesus 3 times, now Jesus asked Peter if he loved him 3 times. It is one thing to say you love Jesus, but the real test is willingness to serve him. Each time Peter had to face his true feelings and motives when Jesus confronted him. How would you respond if Jesus asked you, "Do you truly love me? Do you really love me? Are you even my friend?"

Also Jesus predicts Peter's death by crucifixion. Peter was crucified for his faith, he did not feel worthy of dying as his Lord died, and therefore was hung upside down on a cross. Despite what Peter's future held, Jesus told him to follow him. We too may be uncertain and fearful about our future, but we can trust that God is in control, we can confidently follow Jesus.