The event where Jesus questions Peter's love is a significant moment recorded in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 21:15-17. This encounter takes place after Jesus' resurrection, during one of His appearances to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. The narrative unfolds as Jesus seeks to restore and reaffirm Peter's role among the apostles following Peter's earlier denial of Jesus.

Context and Setting

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples multiple times, providing them with proof of His victory over death and preparing them for their mission. In John 21, the disciples, led by Peter, had returned to fishing, a familiar occupation, perhaps reflecting uncertainty about their future roles. Jesus appears on the shore, and after a miraculous catch of fish, He shares a meal with them. It is in this intimate setting that Jesus addresses Peter directly.

The Threefold Questioning

In John 21:15-17, Jesus asks Peter three times, "Do you love Me?" Each question corresponds to Peter's earlier threefold denial of Jesus (John 18:15-27), offering Peter a path to redemption and restoration. The Berean Standard Bible records the dialogue as follows:

1. First Question: "Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?" (John 21:15). Jesus uses the Greek word "agapao," indicating a deep, selfless love. Peter responds, "Yes, Lord, You know that I love You," using "phileo," a term for brotherly affection. Jesus instructs him, "Feed My lambs."

2. Second Question: "Simon son of John, do you love Me?" (John 21:16). Jesus again uses "agapao." Peter affirms his love with "phileo," and Jesus tells him, "Tend My sheep."

3. Third Question: "Simon son of John, do you love Me?" (John 21:17). This time, Jesus uses "phileo," meeting Peter at his level of expressed affection. Peter, grieved by the repetition, insists, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus commands, "Feed My sheep."

Theological Significance

This exchange is rich with theological implications. Jesus' questioning serves as a means of restoration for Peter, who had denied knowing Jesus during His trial. By asking Peter to affirm his love three times, Jesus provides Peter with the opportunity to publicly reaffirm his commitment and loyalty. This act of grace underscores the themes of forgiveness and restoration central to the Christian faith.

Furthermore, Jesus' commands to "feed" and "tend" His sheep signify the pastoral role Peter is to assume. This commissioning highlights the responsibility of church leaders to nurture and care for the spiritual well-being of believers. It also reflects the trust Jesus places in Peter, despite his previous failures, emphasizing the transformative power of grace and redemption.

Peter's Role and Legacy

Following this encounter, Peter emerges as a prominent leader in the early church, as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles. His bold preaching and leadership are instrumental in the spread of the Gospel. The restoration by Jesus empowers Peter to fulfill his calling, demonstrating that past failures do not disqualify one from future service in God's kingdom.

In summary, Jesus' questioning of Peter's love is a profound moment of reconciliation and commissioning. It illustrates the depth of Christ's forgiveness and the importance of love and devotion in the life of a disciple. Through this interaction, Jesus reaffirms Peter's role and sets the stage for his pivotal contributions to the early Christian community.