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Book of John - Chapter 21 - Verse 12

21:12
Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.

Meaning

When Jesus said to his disciples, "Come and dine," it was a moment of great significance in the Gospel of John. This invitation was not just about sharing a meal together; it symbolized a deeper spiritual truth. By using the term "dine," Jesus was not only inviting his disciples to partake in physical nourishment but also in the spiritual nourishment that he offers. The act of eating together was a common practice in Jewish culture that symbolized intimacy and fellowship. By inviting his disciples to dine with him, Jesus was showing them that he wanted to have a close and personal relationship with each of them. The fact that none of the disciples dared to ask Jesus who he was further emphasizes their recognition of him as the Lord. They already knew in their hearts that it was the risen Christ standing before them, and their reverence and awe prevented them from questioning his identity. This verse serves as a reminder to all believers that Jesus is constantly inviting us to come and dine with him, to partake in his presence, his love, and his grace.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Gospel of John, Jesus invites his disciples to come and dine with him. The act of dining together holds significant theological implications in the Bible, symbolizing fellowship, communion, and intimacy. By sharing a meal with his disciples, Jesus is not only nourishing their physical bodies but also strengthening their spiritual bond and reaffirming his presence among them. The disciples recognized Jesus as their Lord without needing to ask, highlighting their deep knowledge and understanding of his divine nature. This verse emphasizes the disciples' trust and faith in Jesus, as well as their willingness to follow his teachings and guidance. The word "Lord" in this context carries a sense of reverence and acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. Through this simple invitation to dine, Jesus demonstrates his care and compassion for his followers, as well as his desire to foster a deeper connection with them.

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