Why Jesus asked three Times : Do you Love me?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Third Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 21:1-19 or 21:1-14*

*First Reading :Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 30:2, 3, 5-6, 11-12, 13*

*Second Reading :Rev 5:11-14*

*Why Jesus asked three Times : Do you Love me?*

*1) Restoration After Denial*

Peter denied Jesus three times (Luke 22:54–62).

After the resurrection, Jesus gives Peter three chances to affirm his love.

This is not to shame Peter, but to restore him. Each *“yes”* heals the wound of a *“no.”* It shows that no failure is final with God.

*2) Deepening the Meaning of Love*

Jesus uses two different Greek words for love:

*Agapao* – unconditional, divine love

*Phileo* – brotherly, affectionate love

At first, Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love (agapao) me?” Peter responds with, “I love (phileo) you.” 

By the third question, Jesus comes down to Peter’s level and says, “Do you phileo me?” 

This shows Jesus’ gentle approach, meeting Peter where he is. 

It reminds us that God is patient as our love matures

*3) Commissioning Peter’s Mission*

After each response, Jesus commands Peter:

Feed my lambs

Tend my sheep

Feed my sheep

This links love for Christ with service to others, especially the Church. 

True love for Jesus isn’t just emotional—it shows itself in action, care, and leadership.

*4) Personal Relationship with Christ*

Jesus addresses Peter by name and speaks to him intimately. 

This isn't a public rebuke but a personal conversation of healing. 

It shows that Jesus wants a personal relationship with each of us, and our love for Him must be sincere and individual.

*5) A Model for Repentance and Grace*

Peter was broken by his betrayal, but Jesus doesn’t reject him. 

Instead, He entrusts Peter with the pastoral care of His flock.

This shows the power of forgiveness and how God can transform our worst failures into new beginnings.

*6) Peter's  Emotional Pain and Healing*

By the third time, Scripture says:

*“Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’”* – John 21:17

Peter feels deep sorrow—not because Jesus is doubting him, but because this third question stirs the memory of his three denials. 

Jesus is pressing into the wound—not to hurt, but to heal.

True love for Christ includes remorse over past sins, but also an openness to restoration. 

Jesus doesn’t avoid Peter’s pain; He helps Peter face it to redeem it.

*7) Appeal to Christ’s Omniscience*

Peter finally says, *“Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.”* (John 21:17)

This is a profound confession. 

Peter no longer argues or defends himself. He places everything—his heart, his past, his future—in the hands of Jesus. 

This is trusting love, not just emotional love.

*8) Peter’s responses reflect:*

Humility replacing pride

Grief turning to grace

Trust over self-reliance

Love that becomes service

His journey is a model for every disciple who has failed but still longs to say: *“Lord, you know I love you.”*

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*