John 21:5

KJV

Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G3767} Jesus {G2424} saith {G3004} unto them {G846}, Children {G3813}, have ye {G2192} any {G3387} meat {G4371}? They answered {G611} him {G846}, No {G3756}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He said to them, “You don’t have any fish, do you?” “No,” they answered him.

Berean Standard Bible

So He called out to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” “No,” they answered.

American Standard Version

Jesus therefore saith unto them, Children, have ye aught to eat? They answered him, No.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 21:5 captures a tender and pivotal post-resurrection encounter between Jesus and His disciples on the Sea of Tiberias. After a night of fruitless fishing, the disciples, unaware of His identity, are addressed by Jesus from the shore with a question about their catch. This seemingly simple inquiry serves as a loving prelude to a miraculous provision, a restorative meal, and a profound recommissioning, underscoring Jesus' intimate care for His followers' physical needs and spiritual purpose.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated in the final chapter of John's Gospel, which serves as an epilogue following the main narrative of Jesus' ministry, death, and resurrection. Chapters 1-20 conclude with Jesus' initial post-resurrection appearances to His disciples and Thomas, confirming His victory over death. Chapter 21, however, focuses on a specific group of disciples returning to their former occupation of fishing, perhaps grappling with uncertainty or awaiting further instruction. The narrative immediately preceding John 21:5 describes the disciples' fruitless night of toil, setting the stage for Jesus' unexpected appearance and intervention, which mirrors His earlier call to Peter and others in [Luke 5:1-11](/luke/5-1-11 "Luke 5:1-11 - The Miraculous Catch and Call of Disciples"). The question posed in John 21:5 is the opening line of a dialogue that leads to a miraculous catch, a breakfast on the shore, and a deeply personal restoration of Peter, culminating in Jesus' final instructions regarding discipleship and ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the Sea of Tiberias, also known as the Sea of Galilee, a region central to Jesus' earthly ministry. Fishing was a primary industry and a common livelihood for many in this area, including several of Jesus' disciples before their call to follow Him. The practice of fishing at night was common, as was the use of nets. The disciples' failure to catch anything ("No") was a frustrating but not uncommon experience for fishermen, highlighting their complete dependence on external factors, including divine intervention. The act of sharing a meal, particularly one prepared by the host, carried significant cultural weight in ancient Jewish society, symbolizing fellowship, reconciliation, and hospitality. Jesus' appearance on the shore at dawn and His preparation of a meal (implied in the subsequent verses) would have been deeply significant, evoking both the familiarity of their past lives and the profound reality of His resurrected presence.
* **Key Themes:** John 21:5 contributes to several overarching themes in the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Provision**, contrasting human futility with God's abundant supply. The disciples' empty nets underscore their inability to achieve success through their own efforts, making Jesus' subsequent command and the resulting catch a clear demonstration of His sovereign power and care. Secondly, the verse highlights **Jesus' Shepherd Heart** and His tender care for His disciples. His address as "Children" (as explored in the exposition) reveals a deep affection and concern for their well-being, both physical and spiritual, echoing His role as the [Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd"). Thirdly, the initial lack of recognition of Jesus by the disciples reinforces the theme of **Spiritual Discernment**, where true recognition of the resurrected Christ often comes not through physical sight alone, but through His specific words or actions, as seen in the encounter with Mary Magdalene in [John 20:11-18](/john/20-11-18 "John 20:11-18 - Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene") or the Emmaus disciples in [Luke 24:13-35](/luke/24-13-35 "Luke 24:13-35 - The Road to Emmaus"). Finally, this interaction sets the stage for **Restoration and Recommissioning**, particularly for Peter, demonstrating Jesus' grace in calling His followers back to their purpose despite their failures, a central message of the post-resurrection appearances.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Children (Greek, _paidíon'_):** From G3813, this neuter diminutive of _país_ (child) refers to a "childling" or "infant," but by extension, a "half-grown boy or girl," and figuratively, an "immature Christian." In this context, it is a term of tender endearment and affection, conveying Jesus' loving concern for His disciples, much like a father addressing his beloved offspring. It emphasizes His gentle and caring nature towards those who had been through the trauma of His crucifixion and the uncertainty of His resurrection.
* **have ye (Greek, _échō'_):** From G2192, a primary verb meaning "to hold," used in various applications including possession, ability, relation, or condition. Here, it functions as an interrogative, asking about their possession of "meat" or fish. It's a direct inquiry into their current state of provision, highlighting their lack and setting the stage for Jesus' subsequent miraculous intervention.
* **meat (Greek, _prosphágion'_):** From G4371, this neuter noun is derived from a compound of _prós_ (to, in addition to) and _phágō_ (to eat). It specifically denotes "something eaten in addition to bread," commonly understood as a "relish," and in the context of Galilee, particularly "fish." The KJV translation "meat" is broader, but the Greek term points directly to the specific food item they would have been seeking as fishermen, indicating Jesus' precise awareness of their labor and their need.
* **No (Greek, _ou'_):** From G3756, this is the absolute negative adverb. It signifies a definitive and unequivocal "no" or "not." In response to Jesus' question, the disciples' simple "No" underscores their complete lack of success and their empty nets, setting up the contrast with the abundance that Jesus is about to provide.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Jesus saith unto them,"**: This introductory phrase establishes the speaker and the audience. "Then" (G3767, _oûn_) acts as a connective, linking this moment to the disciples' night of fruitless toil, indicating a logical progression in the narrative. Jesus initiates the conversation, demonstrating His active engagement with their situation.
* **"Children, have ye any meat?"**: This is Jesus' direct question. The address "Children" (G3813, _paidíon_) is a tender and affectionate term, revealing Jesus' deep care and compassion for His disciples, who are likely exhausted and disheartened. The question "have ye any meat?" (G2192, _échō_... G4371, _prosphágion_) is a direct inquiry about their catch, specifically fish, indicating His awareness of their profession and their current lack of provision after a long night. It's not a question born of ignorance, but one that invites their confession of need.
* **"They answered him, No."**: The disciples' succinct reply (G611, _apokrínomai_... G3756, _ou_) confirms their complete failure. Their "No" signifies empty nets and a night of wasted effort, highlighting their human limitations and setting the stage for the miraculous intervention and divine provision that Jesus is about to orchestrate. This simple answer underscores their vulnerability and dependence.

#### Literary Devices
John 21:5, though brief, employs several significant literary devices. The use of **Dialogue** immediately draws the reader into the scene, making the interaction personal and direct. Jesus' opening address, "Children," is a powerful example of **Pathos**, evoking a sense of tenderness, compassion, and intimate care, establishing a warm and familial tone despite the disciples' initial lack of recognition. The disciples' terse response, "No," functions as **Understatement**, conveying the full extent of their night's failure and exhaustion without needing elaborate description. This simple negative creates a stark **Contrast** with the miraculous abundance that is about to follow, highlighting the futility of human effort apart from divine intervention. Furthermore, the entire scene serves as a **Type** or **Echo** of the earlier miraculous catch in [Luke 5](/luke/5 "Luke 5 - The Miraculous Catch of Fish"), creating a literary parallel that reinforces themes of divine calling, provision, and the transformation from fishing for fish to fishing for men.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 21:5 powerfully illustrates the profound truth of God's intimate knowledge and compassionate care for His people, even in their moments of struggle and apparent failure. Jesus' question, "Children, have ye any meat?", is not an inquiry born of ignorance, but a tender invitation for His disciples to acknowledge their need and experience His sovereign provision. This moment underscores the theological principle that human effort, however diligent, is ultimately insufficient without divine blessing. It reminds believers that Christ is present in our "empty nets" moments, ready to intervene with grace and abundance, not only for our physical needs but also to restore our purpose and recommission us for His service. This divine provision extends beyond mere sustenance, pointing to the spiritual nourishment and guidance that only Christ can provide.

* [Matthew 6:31-33](/matthew/6-31-33 "Matthew 6:31-33 - Seek First the Kingdom")
* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")
* [Psalm 37:25](/psalms/37-25 "Psalm 37:25 - The Righteous Never Forsaken")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 21:5 offers a profound mirror for our own lives. How often do we toil through our days, our work, our relationships, or our spiritual disciplines, only to find our "nets" empty? This verse reminds us that even after significant spiritual experiences (like the resurrection), we can still revert to old routines and face disappointment. Jesus' gentle question, "Children, have ye any meat?", cuts through our exhaustion and self-reliance, inviting us to be honest about our lack. It's a call to humility, to confess our limitations and acknowledge our need for His supernatural intervention. The Lord cares not only about our grand spiritual missions but also about our daily sustenance, our physical well-being, and our emotional state. This passage encourages us to pause, listen for His voice in the mundane, and be ready to obey His seemingly simple instructions, for it is often in our obedience to His word that we experience His miraculous provision and renewed purpose. When our own strength fails, His grace abounds, leading us to a harvest far beyond what we could achieve on our own.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel like you are toiling with "empty nets," despite your best efforts?**
* **How does Jesus' tender address as "Children" speak to your own sense of worth and belonging in Christ?**
* **What "simple" instructions might Jesus be giving you today that, if obeyed, could lead to unexpected provision or breakthrough?**
* **How does acknowledging your need for Christ's provision strengthen your faith and dependence on Him?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus call His adult disciples "Children"?**

Answer: Jesus' use of the term "Children" (Greek: _paidíon_) is a tender and affectionate diminutive. It conveys a deep sense of loving concern, endearment, and paternal care, rather than implying immaturity or subordination. It's akin to a father speaking to his beloved offspring. This choice of address highlights Jesus' compassion and the intimate relationship He shares with His disciples, especially after the traumatic events of His crucifixion and resurrection. It underscores His role as their loving Shepherd and teacher, seeking to comfort and reassure them.

**What is the significance of the disciples having caught "No" fish?**

Answer: The disciples' complete failure to catch any fish after an entire night of labor is highly significant. It emphasizes human limitation and the futility of effort without divine blessing. This barrenness sets a stark contrast with the miraculous abundance that Jesus is about to provide, making His intervention all the more striking. It serves as a reminder that even experienced individuals can fail, and that true success and provision ultimately come from God. This echoes the earlier miraculous catch in [Luke 5:4-7](/luke/5-4-7 "Luke 5:4-7 - The First Miraculous Catch"), where Jesus also commanded them to cast their nets after a fruitless night, leading to an overwhelming catch.

**Why did the disciples not recognize Jesus initially?**

Answer: The Gospel accounts of post-resurrection appearances frequently describe instances where Jesus is not immediately recognized, as seen with Mary Magdalene in [John 20:14](/john/20-14 "John 20:14 - Mary Magdalene Does Not Recognize Jesus") or the disciples on the road to Emmaus in [Luke 24:16](/luke/24-16 "Luke 24:16 - Disciples' Eyes Kept from Recognizing Jesus"). Several factors could contribute: it might have been dim light at dawn, their minds were perhaps preoccupied with their failure and exhaustion, or Jesus' resurrected body might have had a different appearance. Theologically, this lack of immediate recognition often serves to highlight that true spiritual discernment comes not just from physical sight, but from Jesus' specific words or actions, as their eyes were opened when He commanded them to cast the net or when He broke bread with them.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 21:5, with its depiction of Jesus' tender inquiry and the disciples' empty nets, profoundly foreshadows and illuminates the ongoing work of Christ in the lives of His followers. The scene on the shore, where the resurrected Lord meets His struggling disciples, is a vivid picture of the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd") caring for His flock, not merely providing for their physical needs but preparing them for their ultimate spiritual commission. Just as the disciples found their efforts fruitless without Christ's direction, so too are believers called to recognize their dependence on Him for true spiritual fruitfulness, as Jesus Himself declared, "[Apart from me you can do nothing](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in the Vine")." This encounter anticipates the complete provision found in Christ, who not only supplies our daily bread but is Himself the "[Bread of Life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")" who satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. His gentle question about "meat" ultimately points to His desire to feed us with His very self, culminating in the ultimate feast of the [Lamb's Supper](/revelation/19-9 "Revelation 19:9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb"). The restoration of the disciples, particularly Peter, after their failure, beautifully illustrates Christ's unending grace and His power to recommission those who have stumbled, transforming them into "[fishers of men](/matthew/4-19 "Matthew 4:19 - Jesus Calls Fishers of Men")" through the power of the Holy Spirit, as promised in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Be Witnesses"). Thus, John 21:5 is not merely a historical anecdote but a living testament to Christ's enduring compassion, His sovereign provision, and His unwavering commitment to equip and empower His church for its mission until His glorious return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 4:19

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:11

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Luke 24:41

And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?

Luke 24:43

And he took [it], and did eat before them.

Psalms 37:3

Trust in the LORD, and do good; [so] shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.

Hebrews 13:5

[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.