Question 1

What does John 21:14 mean?

Accepted Answer

John 21:14 states that this was the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after rising from the dead. The verse highlights the repeated and clear nature of Jesus’ appearances to his closest followers following his resurrection. John, the writer, is speaking to readers about the events after Jesus’ resurrection. The disciples had already seen Jesus twice before, and this third appearance happens by the Sea of Tiberias, where Jesus meets them after a night of fishing. This note helps readers keep track of the sequence of resurrection appearances and underlines their reality and importance.

Question 2

The Greek behind John 21:14

Accepted Answer

ἐφανέρωσεν (ephanerōsen, “shewed himself”): This Greek word means “to reveal” or “to make visible.” It emphasizes that Jesus was not just seen by chance but intentionally made himself known to his disciples. ἠγέρθη (ēgerthē, “risen”): This word carries the sense of being raised up, often used for resurrection. It underlines that Jesus’ appearances happened after he had truly been raised from the dead, not just revived or resuscitated. νεκρῶν (nekrōn, “dead”): This word refers to those who have died. Its use here stresses the reality of Jesus’ death and the miracle of his return to life.

Question 3

Why John 21:14 matters

Accepted Answer

John 21:14 clarifies that Jesus’ resurrection appearances were not isolated or imagined events but happened multiple times, witnessed by his closest followers. The verse helps readers see the careful record-keeping in John’s account, showing that these appearances were significant and memorable for the early Christian community. By specifying “the third time,” the verse connects this event to earlier appearances, helping readers understand the timeline and the growing certainty among the disciples that Jesus was truly alive.

John 21:14 (KJV)