Do You Really Love Jesus? Understanding True Discipleship
In John 21:14-19, we find a powerful interaction between Jesus and Peter that challenges us to examine what it truly means to love and follow Christ. This encounter reveals important truths about authentic discipleship and the responsibilities that come with claiming to love Jesus.
What Does It Mean When Jesus Asks “Do You Love Me?”
After His resurrection, Jesus appears to His disciples and asks Peter three times if he loves Him. Each time Peter affirms his love, Jesus responds with a command:
“Feed my lambs”
“Tend my flock”
“Feed my sheep”
This exchange shows that loving Jesus means more than just verbal proclamation – it requires action and service to others.
Why Does Loving Jesus Require Action?
True love for Christ cannot be separated from obedience to His commands. When we say we love Jesus but make excuses for not serving others or sharing His message, we’re not fully living out that love. Jesus makes it clear that authentic love for Him means:
Taking care of His people
Serving even when it’s difficult
Putting aside our own comfort
Following Him regardless of the cost
What Are the Challenges of Following Jesus?
Jesus never promised an easy path. In fact, He was direct about the difficulties His followers would face:
Persecution
Trials
Opposition
Personal sacrifice
Yet He calls us to follow Him anyway, providing everything we need to fulfill our calling despite the challenges.
Life Application
This week, examine your own relationship with Christ by asking yourself:
Am I making excuses for not serving others in Jesus’ name?
Do my actions match my proclamation of love for Christ?
What specific ways can I “feed His sheep” in my daily life?
Challenge: Choose one concrete way to serve others this week, even if it requires personal sacrifice. Remember that true love for Jesus is demonstrated through obedient action, not just words.
Remember Jesus’ final words to Peter: “Follow me.” Despite knowing the difficulties ahead, we are called to follow Christ faithfully, serving His people and sharing His love with the world.