John 21:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 21:5
5 Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.
Chapter Context
John 21 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, prayer, redemption. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 21:5
5 Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.
Analysis
Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. Jesus addresses them as παιδία (paidia, children/little children), a term of endearment showing affection despite their regression to fishing. This same word appears in 1 John 2:14, 18 where the apostle tenderly addresses believers. Jesus doesn't rebuke but lovingly engages.
The question μή τι προσφάγιον ἔχετε (mē ti prosphagion echete, 'Have you any fish/food?') expects a negative answer (μή, mē). Jesus knows they've caught nothing but asks to surface their need and failure. This parallels His question to Philip before feeding the 5,000: 'Whence shall we buy bread?' (John 6:5)—He knew what He would do but tested Philip. Here Jesus establishes their utter dependence before demonstrating His provision.
Their simple response Οὔ (ou, 'No') admits failure. Professional fishermen on their home waters, working all night with expert technique—nothing. This stark confession prepares for the miracle. They must acknowledge emptiness before experiencing Christ's abundance. Ministry apart from Christ, however skillful or sincere, produces no fruit. 'Without me ye can do nothing' (John 15:5) is here dramatically illustrated.
Historical Context
The word προσφάγιον (prosphagion) specifically means 'fish' or 'relish eaten with bread'—something to accompany the staple food. A stranger asking fishermen if they'd caught anything was natural—fishing boats returning at dawn would be expected to have catches for sale. Jesus's question thus seemed ordinary, not immediately revealing His identity.
Night fishing expeditions that produced nothing represented economic disaster for professional fishermen. Nets needed repair, boats required maintenance, and families needed provision. The disciples' simple 'No' carries economic anxiety, physical exhaustion, and perhaps spiritual discouragement. They had left these nets to follow Jesus (Luke 5:11), but now He was... what? Risen, yes—but what came next?
Reflection
- What does Jesus's tender address 'children' reveal about His attitude toward disciples who had failed and regressed?
- Why does Jesus ask a question to which He already knows the answer, and how does this apply to His dealings with us?
- How does the disciples' fruitless night prepare them for the miracle and recommissioning that follows?
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Philippians 4:19
- Parallel theme: Psalms 37:3, 1 John 2:13