By the Sea Once More

This chapter is based on John 21:1-22.

Jesus had made an appointment to meet His disciples in Galilee. Their absence from Jerusalem during Passover week would have been interpreted as dissent and heresy. But when this was over, they gladly turned homeward to meet the Savior as He had directed.HH 371.1

Seven of the disciples were together. They were poor in worldly goods, but rich in the knowledge of the truth. For three years the greatest Educator the world has ever known had been their Teacher. They had become intelligent and refined, agents who could lead others to a knowledge of the truth.HH 371.2

The disciples gathered in a place where they were not likely to be disturbed. Within sight was the beach where more than ten thousand people had been fed from a few small loaves and fishes. Not far away was Capernaum, the scene of many miracles.HH 371.3

Peter, who still had much of his old love for boats and fishing, proposed that they go out on the lake and throw their nets. They were in need of food and clothing, and the proceeds from a successful night’s fishing would supply these things. So they went out, but they worked all night without success. Through the long hours they talked of their absent Lord. They puzzled over their own future and grew sad at the prospect before them.HH 371.4

Finally the morning dawned. The boat was only a little way from shore, and the disciples saw a Stranger standing on the beach who greeted them with the question, “Children, have you any food?” When they answered, “No,” “He said to them, ‘Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.’ So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.”HH 371.5

John recognized the Stranger and exclaimed to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Peter was so glad that he threw himself into the water and was soon standing by the side of his Master. The other disciples came in their boat, dragging the net with the fish. “As soon as they had come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread.”HH 371.6

“Jesus said to them, ‘Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.’ “ Peter rushed for the net, which he had dropped, and helped drag it to shore. After the work was done, Jesus divided the food among them. All seven recognized Him and acknowledged who He was. But a mysterious awe was on them, and in silence they gazed at the risen Savior.HH 371.7

Vividly they recalled the scene beside the sea when Jesus had invited them to follow Him. He had called them to leave their fishing boats and had promised to make them fishers of men. To bring this scene to their minds and to deepen its impression, He had performed the miracle again as a renewal of the commission to the disciples. Their Master’s death had not reduced their obligation to do the work He had assigned them. Though they would not have support from their former employment, the risen Savior would provide for their needs. If they labored in connection with Him, they could not fail to succeed.HH 372.1