Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: John 21:1-14

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of John 21:1-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read John 21:1-14 as a profound demonstration of Christ's sovereign grace and his ongoing commitment to his covenant people. In this passage, the risen Christ appears to his disciples, providing a miraculous catch of fish, which signifies his provision and his authority over creation. This event recalls the calling of the first disciples and emphasizes the continuity of Christ's mission through them. The passage is deeply covenantal, illustrating the faithfulness of the risen Christ to his promises and his ongoing work of redemption through the church. This narrative, set in the context of Christ's resurrection, underscores the transition from the old covenant to the new, where Christ himself is the fulfillment of all that the covenants anticipated.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the phrase 'children, do you have any fish?' (παιδία, μή τι προσφάγιον ἔχετε;) highlights Christ's intimate care and authority over his disciples, reminiscent of a shepherd with his sheep. The term 'children' signifies a familial relationship, pointing to the covenant family of God. The miraculous catch underscores Christ's sovereignty, as the word 'large' (μέγας) in reference to the fish indicates abundance, symbolizing the spiritual abundance in Christ's kingdom. The tradition emphasizes the received text's portrayal of Christ's sovereign provision.

Where Traditions Diverge

The Reformed tradition diverges from Arminian interpretations that might focus on the disciples' response as a free-will decision. Instead, we emphasize Christ's sovereign initiative in this encounter. Additionally, where some traditions might see this passage as primarily instructional or moralistic, we understand it as revealing the redemptive-historical work of Christ, fulfilling the covenant promises and establishing the church's mission in the power of his resurrection.

Pastoral Application

As Reformed pastors, we should emphasize Christ's sovereign provision and faithfulness to his covenant promises, reassuring our congregation of the security they have in him. This passage calls us to trust in Christ's authority and provision in our lives as we labor in his name. The miraculous catch reminds us that, apart from Christ, we can do nothing, but in him, our labor is not in vain. Our preaching should encourage believers to rest in the assurance of God's sovereign grace, knowing that he who began a good work in them will bring it to completion.

Cross-References: Luke 5:1-11; John 15:5; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 53:11; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22

Doctrinal Connections: sovereign grace; covenant faithfulness; effectual calling; resurrection; Christ's authority over creation