John 21:14
This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The 'third time' refers to group appearances recorded in John's Gospel, not the totality of appearances mentioned across all Gospels and 1 Corinthians 15:3-8. John selects seven signs in Jesus' ministry and carefully numbers post-resurrection appearances, demonstrating literary intentionality. The movement from Jerusalem (first two) to Galilee (third) fulfills the angel's instructions (Mark 16:7) and Jesus' promise (Matthew 26:32) to meet disciples in Galilee. This geographic shift symbolizes mission expansion—from Judea to Galilee to the ends of the earth.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the pattern of three manifestations establish the certainty of resurrection for wavering disciples and for us?
- What does Jesus' sovereign timing of appearances—'manifesting himself' when and where He chose—teach about His continued lordship over the church?
- How do the three appearances progress in purpose (peace/commission, proof/belief, provision/restoration), and what does this progression reveal about Jesus' patient discipling of failures?
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Analysis & Commentary
This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead (τοῦτο ἤδη τρίτον ἐφανερώθη Ἰησοῦς τοῖς μαθηταῖς/touto ēdē triton ephanerōthē Iēsous tois mathētais)—John marks this as the third post-resurrection appearance to the disciples collectively (not counting individual appearances to Mary Magdalene or the two on the Emmaus road). The first was in the upper room without Thomas (John 20:19-23), the second with Thomas present (John 20:26-29), now this third by the Sea of Galilee.
The verb ἐφανερώθη (ephanerōthē) means 'was manifested' or 'revealed himself'—emphasizing that resurrection appearances were sovereign disclosures, not chance encounters. Jesus revealed Himself according to His purpose and timing. The pattern of three witnesses or testimonies establishes certainty (Deuteronomy 19:15, 2 Corinthians 13:1). Three times Jesus manifested His resurrection, moving disciples from doubt to certainty, from fear to mission. This third appearance, combining miraculous provision, intimate fellowship, and commissioning (verses 15-17), prepares them for Pentecost and worldwide witness.