Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.

JOHN 21:13KJV
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John 21:13 (KJV)

What does John 21:13 mean?

John 21:13 describes Jesus coming to his disciples after his resurrection, taking bread, and giving it to them, along with fish. This verse shows Jesus serving his followers a meal, demonstrating his presence and care for them in a familiar, tangible way.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples by the Sea of Galilee after they have been fishing. The disciples had just recognized Jesus on the shore, and he invites them to eat breakfast with him. The verse highlights Jesus’ personal involvement—he is not distant, but actively serves bread and fish, echoing earlier moments in his ministry when he fed the crowds.

The Greek behind John 21:13

  • The word for "bread" is ἄρτος (artos), which simply means bread, a basic food staple. Its use here connects to earlier stories where Jesus broke bread with his disciples, suggesting familiarity and provision.
  • The word for "fish" is ὀψάριον (opsarion), which refers to a small fish or cooked fish, indicating a simple, everyday meal rather than a ceremonial one. This detail grounds the scene in daily life and emphasizes the reality of Jesus’ resurrection body.
  • The verb δίδωμι (didōmi), translated "giveth," means to give or hand over. The Greek here shows Jesus as the active giver, not just present but personally serving his disciples.

Why John 21:13 matters

  • John 21:13 clears up any idea that Jesus’ resurrection was only spiritual or symbolic; the physical act of sharing food shows he was truly present in body.
  • This verse connects to earlier moments in the Gospels where Jesus provides food, reminding readers of his ongoing care and the continuity of his relationship with the disciples.
  • The scene emphasizes Jesus’ humility and servant leadership, as he continues to serve his followers even after his resurrection, reinforcing his character and mission.

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.

“likewise” Greek G3668 · used in 30 verses

  • Matthew 22:26 Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh.
  • Luke 10:32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.

“bread” Greek G740 · used in 91 verses

  • Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
  • Mark 7:5 Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?
  • John 6:13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.