John 21:1, commentary and pictures

After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples after His resurrection at the Sea of Tiberias, also called the Sea of Galilee. The meeting was by His appointment in Galilee, and they went there after the Passover week as directed, having stayed in Jerusalem through the feast so their absence would not be taken as disaffection or heresy. The place was secluded where they were not likely to be disturbed, in the region where much of His ministry had been spent, and it surrounded them with reminders of His words, deeds, and mighty works. There He had walked on the waves to rescue them in a fierce storm and hushed the tempest by His word, within sight was the beach where He had fed above ten thousand from a few small loaves and fishes, and not far distant was Capernaum, the scene of many miracles. Seven disciples were gathered there, poor fishermen in humble clothing and poor in worldly goods but rich in the knowledge and practice of the truth. Though not students in the schools of the prophets, they had for three years been taught by the greatest educator the world has known and under Him had become elevated, intelligent, and refined, fitted as agents to lead men to a knowledge of the truth.

Being poor and in need of food and clothing, they returned to fishing at Peter's proposal, and they worked through the night without catching anything while talking about Jesus and wondering sadly what their future would be. The miraculous catch and shared meal that follow show that the risen Jesus still cares for His disciples and will provide for them as they do His work, recalling the miracle at the beginning of His ministry to teach that His power joined to their effort will make their labor successful even when He is no longer with them in person. The miraculous catch renewed their commission to continue the work He had assigned, showing that His death had not ended their obligation and duty. Before returning to apostolic work, Peter had to address his failure and denial during the betrayal by openly showing his repentance to the other disciples and regaining their confidence.

His restoration came when Jesus asked him three times whether he loved Him and charged him to care for His flock and people. Peter's humbled answers showed a changed spirit and sincere repentance and prepared him to serve again, and his later steadfast witness shows that transforming grace had taken hold of him. Jesus' patient and forgiving treatment of Peter taught the disciples to care tenderly for those entrusted to them.