Expository Thoughts On John - JOHN 21:18-25
J.C. Ryle expounds on John 21:18-25 to reveal the call to faithful discipleship, the certainty of Christ's sovereign plans, and the importance of following Jesus without distraction.
In this expository sermon on John 21:18-25, J.C. Ryle explores Jesus' final instructions to Peter, emphasizing the call to faithful discipleship and the sovereignty of God's plans for each believer. Ryle highlights the importance of focusing on one's own walk with Christ rather than comparing to others, and affirms the truthfulness of the gospel testimony. This sermon encourages believers to trust in Christ's work and to follow Him wholeheartedly.
Text
"I tell you the solemn truth, when you were young, you tied your clothes around you and went wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will tie you up and bring you where you do not want to go." (Now Jesus said this to indicate clearly by what kind of death Peter was going to glorify God.) After he said this, Jesus told Peter, "Follow me."
Peter turned around and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them. (This was the disciple who had leaned back against Jesus’ chest at the meal and asked, "Lord, who is the one who is going to betray you?") So when Peter saw him, he asked Jesus, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus replied, "If I want him to live until I come back, what concern is that of yours? You follow me!" So the saying circulated among the brothers and sisters that this disciple was not going to die. But Jesus did not say to him that he was not going to die, but rather, "If I want him to live until I come back, what concern is that of yours?"
This is the disciple who testifies about these things and has written these things, and we know that his testimony is true.
There are many other things that Jesus did. If every one of them were written down, I suppose the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
These verses form the conclusion of John\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Prediction of Peter's Death
- Jesus foretells the manner of Peter's death
- The significance of glorifying God through suffering
- The call to follow Jesus despite hardship
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II. The Question About the Beloved Disciple
- Peter's inquiry about John's fate
- Jesus' response emphasizing individual calling
- The lesson on focusing on one's own discipleship
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III. The Truthfulness of the Beloved Disciple's Testimony
- John's eyewitness account affirmed
- The importance of reliable testimony in faith
- The enduring witness of the gospel message
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IV. The Unwritten Works of Jesus
- Acknowledgement of Jesus' many deeds
- The vastness of Christ's ministry beyond scripture
- Encouragement to trust in the fullness of Christ's work
Key Quotes
“I tell you the solemn truth, when you were young, you tied your clothes around you and went wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will tie you up and bring you where you do not want to go.” — J.C. Ryle
“If I want him to live until I come back, what concern is that of yours? You follow me!” — J.C. Ryle
“If every one of them were written down, I suppose the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Trust God's sovereign plan for your life even when it involves suffering or uncertainty.
- Focus on your personal calling to follow Jesus without comparing yourself to others.
- Value and uphold the truthfulness of Scripture as the foundation of your faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Jesus mean by predicting Peter's death?
Jesus foretells that Peter will glorify God through a martyr's death, indicating the cost and honor of faithful discipleship.
Why does Jesus tell Peter not to worry about John's fate?
Jesus emphasizes that each believer has a unique calling and should focus on following Him rather than comparing their path to others.
Is the beloved disciple really going to live until Jesus returns?
Jesus does not promise John immortality but indicates that his fate is under God's sovereign will, which is not for others to question.
Why does the sermon mention the many other things Jesus did?
It highlights the vastness of Jesus' ministry and encourages believers to trust in the completeness of His work beyond what is recorded.
What is the main call to action in this passage?
The primary call is to follow Jesus faithfully, regardless of circumstances or distractions.