JOHN 21:20–23
“WHAT ABOUT HIM?”: DISCIPLESHIP AND TRUST IN GOD’S PLAN
Text – John 21:20–23
20 Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved, the one who had also reclined at his chest during the supper and had said, “Lord, who is the one who will betray you?”
21 When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?”
22 Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me.”
23 So the word spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die, just, “What if I want him to remain until I come, what concern is it of yours?”
Historical and Jewish Context
In rabbinic discipleship, comparison among followers was common, especially regarding status, destiny, or authority. Early Christian communities speculated about the fate of key apostles, particularly as persecution increased. The beloved disciple held a unique place as eyewitness and theologian, leading to misunderstandings about his destiny. The Evangelist clarifies this to prevent false expectations regarding the Parousia.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage teaches personal vocation and trust in God’s plan. Catholic theology emphasizes that each disciple has a unique calling within the one Body of Christ. Comparison leads to distraction; fidelity requires focus on Christ alone. Jesus redirects Peter from curiosity about others to the essential call: “You follow me.” The passage also affirms that the Church’s hope rests not in speculation about end times but in faithful discipleship.
Parallels in Scripture
Numbers 11:28–29 – Different roles within God’s people.
Matthew 20:1–16 – God’s generosity beyond comparison.
Romans 12:4–8 – One body, many gifts.
1 Corinthians 12:4–7 – Diversity of vocations.
Hebrews 12:2 – Fixing our eyes on Jesus.
Key Terms
Beloved disciple – Faithful witness.
What about him? – Temptation to comparison.
You follow me – Personal call to discipleship.
Remain until I come – Misunderstood eschatology.
Concern of yours – Trust in God’s will.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is proclaimed in the Easter season. The Church invites believers to embrace their own vocation and to trust God’s unique plan for each life within the communion of saints.
Conclusion
John 21:20–23 teaches that discipleship is not about comparison but fidelity. Jesus calls each believer to follow Him personally, trusting that God’s plan for others unfolds according to divine wisdom, not human curiosity.
Reflection
Do I compare my journey of faith with others?
How do I respond to Christ’s personal call to follow Him?
Am I content to trust God’s plan for my life and others?
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, keep my heart fixed on You. Free me from comparison and curiosity that distract from faithfulness. Help me to follow You with trust, humility, and perseverance according to Your will. Amen.