Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.
JOHN 21:3KJVWhat does John 21:3 mean?
John 21:3 describes Simon Peter telling the other disciples that he is going fishing, and the others deciding to join him. That night, despite their efforts, they do not catch any fish. The verse shows the disciples returning to their old work after Jesus’ resurrection, but finding no success on their own.
Simon Peter is speaking to several other disciples by the Sea of Galilee after Jesus’ resurrection. The group includes Thomas, Nathanael, the sons of Zebedee, and two others. The verse sets the scene for what follows: the disciples’ return to fishing, their lack of results, and the stage for Jesus’ next appearance to them.
The Greek behind John 21:3
- ἀλιεύειν (alieuein, "fishing"): This word means to catch fish, not just to go out on the water. It suggests the disciples were returning to their former occupation, not just passing time.
- ἐμβάντες (embantes, "entered"): This word often means to step into or board, emphasizing the deliberate action of getting into the boat together.
- ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ νυκτί (en ekeinē tē nykti, "that night"): The phrase highlights the timing, showing they worked all night, a typical fishing practice, but still caught nothing, which sets up the significance of what happens next.
Why John 21:3 matters
- John 21:3 shows the disciples’ uncertainty and return to familiar routines after Jesus’ resurrection, highlighting their need for direction.
- The verse sets up the miracle that follows, emphasizing that the disciples’ efforts without Jesus lead to emptiness, preparing for Jesus’ intervention.
- This moment connects to earlier Gospel stories where Jesus called fishermen to follow him, echoing themes of calling, provision, and dependence on Jesus.