THE RISEN JESUS TALKS WITH HIS DISCIPLES

John 21:1-23

* COME AND HAVE BREAKFAST (1-14)

1. How many times had the Risen Jesus appeared in chapter 20? Who were the disciples who went fishing with Peter? What was the result of their fishing trip? Why might Peter, especially, have felt despair as fished that night?

2. How did Jesus begin to restore Peter's and the others' failure? Who recognized Jesus first? How can you explain Peter's jumping into the water with his clothes on?

3. What was Jesus doing when they hauled the fish ashore? Why did the Risen Jesus cook breakfast for them? What was Jesus' gracious invitation, and what did this mean to the disciples, especially to Peter?

* DO YOU LOVE ME? (15-17)

4. After breakfast, what question did Jesus ask Peter in verse 15? Why do you think he asked Peter this question three times? What has enabled Peter to answer, "You know that I love you"? Why had Peter failed to follow Jesus even though he loved him? (see 13:37; Mt.26:33) Why did Peter need to confess his love for Jesus? .

5. How did Jesus reinstate Peter as a shepherd of God's flock? Why is this the practical way to show that we love Jesus?

* GLORIOUS LIFE AND DEATH (18-23)

6. How would Peter's way of living change when he began to live like a shepherd instead of sheep? What does this mean to us? (18)

7. Why do you think Jesus talked to Peter about such a serious matter as his death? What is the alternative to living and dying for the glory of God?

8. What is the significance of Jesus' words, "Follow me"? How did Peter respond to Jesus' invitation to live and die for the glory of God? What did Jesus' answer in verse 22 mean? Why must commitment to Jesus and love for him be very personal for each person?