John 21:14
This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
JOHN 21:14
This is described as “the third time” Jesus showed himself to the disciples after his resurrection. The counting emphasizes continuity with prior appearances and the ongoing revelation of the risen Christ to his followers. The sequence culminates in a communal meal, a kneaded motif of companionship and mission. It marks a specific, intentional post-resurrection engagement that reinforces belief, hope, and vocation. The number three in biblical literature often signals completeness—a full disclosure of the risen Christ to the apostles that anchors their mission.
The third appearance confirms the continuity of Jesus’ ministry with the church’s mission. It testifies to the reality of the resurrection and the personal encounter with Jesus that followers need to sustain their faith and spread the gospel. The repetition reinforces the reliability of eyewitness testimony and the authenticity of Jesus’ risen life. The verse reinforces that Jesus continues to reveal himself to his disciples as they gather, eat, talk, and act as his representatives.
Let this verse anchor your own practice of faith: repeat engagement with Jesus in community and prayer; don’t rely on a single spiritual high but pursue ongoing encounters with the risen Christ. In your church, create regular opportunities for post-resurrection testimonies and prayer, emphasizing experiential faith—stories of transformation, answered prayers, and renewed callings. If you feel far from God, remember that Jesus meets you not once but again and again, inviting you to a deeper relationship and to participate in his mission anew.
Cross-References: Luke 24:13-35; John 20:19-29; Acts 1:3; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8; Revelation 1:12-18