John 21:20

Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

فَالتَفَتَ بُطرُسُ وَرَأى التِّلمِيذَ الَّذِي يُحِبُّهُ يَسُوعُ يَتْبَعُهُمَا. وَهُوَ التِّلمِيذُ الَّذِي كَانَ قَدْ مَالَ عَلَى صَدرِ يَسُوعَ أثْنَاءَ عَشَاءِ الفِصْحِ وَسَألَهُ: «مَنِ الَّذِي سَيَخُونُكَ يَا سَيِّدُ؟»

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from John's Gospel, Peter turns around and sees the disciple Jesus loved following them. This disciple is mentioned in other parts of the Gospel as someone close to Jesus who even leaned on his chest during a meal. The verse also recalls an earlier question about betrayal.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing hide-and-seek with your friends, and one friend always seems to be the closest to the person hiding. That's kind of what this story is about - Peter sees someone Jesus really likes following behind them, just like a best friend would do in a game.

Historical Background

The Gospel of John was written by John, one of Jesus' disciples, around 90-100 AD. It was intended for early Christian communities to understand the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The cultural setting is that of first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman world.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us about loyalty in friendship. Like Peter noticing his friend following him closely, we should appreciate those who stand by our side through thick and thin.

Topics

• friendship
• discipleship
• betrayal
• love
• loyalty
• Jesus' inner circle

Related Verses

• John 13:23
• Mark 14:17-21
• Luke 22:8
• Matthew 26:20-25
• Acts 4:13

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the disciple Jesus loved?

This disciple, often believed to be John himself, was someone close to Jesus who showed deep loyalty and faith. He appears in several key moments of Jesus' ministry.

Why does Peter turn around?

Peter's action might stem from curiosity or concern about the identity of this disciple following them closely after Jesus had been crucified and resurrected.

What is significant about leaning on Jesus' breast?

Leaning on someone’s chest was a sign of closeness, indicating that this disciple shared an intimate relationship with Jesus during the Last Supper.

How does betrayal factor into this verse?

The mention of betrayal connects to earlier parts where one of Jesus' disciples would betray him. This adds depth to understanding the loyalty shown by those who remained close to Jesus.