There’s nothing like a good epilogue.
I enjoy watching the end of the episode of a long saga where apparently all the loose ends have been tied up. Only to see afterwards a mini-episode with something else for us to consider. Something that helps us consider the fact that the story is not yet over.
The gospel according to John very much seems to end by the time we reach the final part of chapter 20. All the boxes have been ticked – the introduction of the Messiah, the key signs that He has given indicating who He is, contention with people over who He claims to be, tragic betrayal and crucifixion, miraculous resurrection and to the joy of His followers His fulfilment of all that scripture predicted about the Son of God.
So what’s the point of this epilogue?
There is so much to consider in this chapter, but one of the highlights is at the very end of the chapter. Having called Simon Peter to look after His sheep, Jesus helps Peter with a key part of what it is to be a true disciple.
If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me. (John 21:22)
It makes me chuckle to note how people got this statement the wrong way and thought it was Jesus saying that John would live until He returned. It makes me chuckle because it’s the very same issue that Peter had which Jesus corrected – it missed the point.
The point of the gospel of John is not to speculate about what happens to other people. The point of the gospel is not to marvel and applaud the good things Jesus does. The point of the gospel of John is for us to become followers of Christ. Those who believe will follow and those who follow must believe, one is not happening unless the other is in place.
For the sake of the King of the earth, the Saviour of the world, the Son of Man and the Son of God – we must follow Him.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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