Article September 25, 1989 Issue

"Lovest thou me?"

As we love Christ we can't help loving our fellowman better.

Celia Barton

"SIMON, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?" ^{See John 21:15-17.} After his resurrection Christ Jesus asked this question three times of the disciple Peter. Three times, the Bible tells us, Jesus required Peter to affirm his love and to follow a special command to feed his lambs and sheep. The third time Peter protested, exclaiming that Jesus must know of his devoted love for him.

What did the question, so persistently pressed, mean? It certainly gave Peter joyful redemption for the recognition and allegiance he had thrice denied to Jesus at the time of the crucifixion. The question also expresses Jesus' unconditional, sustaining love for his disciples—as well as his recognition of Peter's need. Peter needed to be healed of any debilitating remorse at having denied his beloved Master. He needed to be valued, directed, and cherished for the mission ahead of him.

Christ Jesus' questioning secured Peter in his mission, which he upheld faithfully, loyally, and with deep spiritual insight. There can be no doubt that Peter's life continued to bear witness to his affirmation that he did love Jesus. He lived and proved his love for Christ, the eternal message of God's healing and saving power, in his selfless service to God and man. Peter healed the sick, raised the dead, and learned to behold Jew and Gentile alike (a viewpoint entirely at odds with the Judaic teachings of the time). He walked free from prison chains. He shared with Paul in the teaching and healing work undertaken by the early Christians after the resurrection. His steadfast trust, courage, and example inspire Christians today.

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