Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.

JOHN 21:10KJV
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John 21:10 (KJV)

What does John 21:10 mean?

John 21:10 shows Jesus telling his disciples to bring some of the fish they have just caught. He is speaking directly to them after their successful catch, inviting them to add their fish to what is already being prepared.

In this scene, Jesus is on the shore after his resurrection, and the disciples have just hauled in a large catch of fish at his instruction. Jesus addresses the group, asking them to contribute some of their freshly caught fish to the meal he is making. This moment highlights Jesus’ practical care for his followers and his involvement in their everyday needs.

The Greek behind John 21:10

  • "Bring" (φέρω, pherō): This word means to carry or bring along. Jesus is not just asking for fish in general, but specifically inviting the disciples to actively participate by bringing what they have caught.
  • "Fish" (ὀψάριον, opsarion): This word refers to small fish, often used for food. The use of this term emphasizes the simple, everyday nature of the meal.
  • "Now" (νῦν, nyn): This word means "now" or "at this moment," pointing to the immediacy of Jesus’ request and the fresh nature of the catch.

Why John 21:10 matters

  • John 21:10 shows Jesus involving his disciples in the meal, not just providing for them but also including what they have worked for, which underscores a partnership between Jesus and his followers.
  • This verse connects to the larger story of the miraculous catch, highlighting that while Jesus provides abundantly, he also values what the disciples bring.
  • The invitation to bring their fish sets up the shared meal that follows, which is a moment of fellowship and recognition between the risen Jesus and his disciples.

Where else these words appear

“fish” Greek G3795 · used in 5 verses

  • John 6:9 There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
  • John 6:11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.
  • John 21:9 As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.

“have” Greek G4084 · used in 12 verses

  • John 7:30 Then they sought to take him: but no man laid hands on him, because his hour was not yet come.
  • John 8:20 These words spake Jesus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple: and no man laid hands on him; for his hour was not yet come.
  • Acts 3:7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.

“Bring” Greek G5342 · used in 58 verses

  • Matthew 14:11 And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother.
  • Luke 24:1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.
  • Acts 14:13 Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.

“now” Greek G3568 · used in 133 verses

  • Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
  • Acts 2:33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: