Jesus as God
The Risen Jesus Entrusts His Sheep to Peter
Jesus delegates pastoral responsibility to Peter while retaining ownership of the flock.
How this passage contributes to the case:
The labels below identify the kinds of evidence for Jesus' divinity found in this passage.
Select a label for an explanation.
Divine Identity
Divine Authority
Old Testament YHWH Identification
Exercises Divine Authority
Fulfills YHWH Passage
Strength of evidence: Strong.
This passage provides substantial evidence relevant to Jesus' divine identity when read in its literary and historical context.
James Tissot — Life of Christ
Scripture
What Was Said or Done
The risen Jesus repeatedly commands Peter to feed and tend 'my' lambs and sheep.
Historical and Cultural Context
Ezekiel 34 says YHWH himself will shepherd his sheep and also promises a Davidic shepherd over them.
Old Testament Background
Ezekiel 34:11-24; Psalm 23:1 are the principal backgrounds.
Exposition
The flock Jesus called his own in John 10 remains his own after the resurrection; Peter serves as an under-shepherd commissioned by Jesus.
Why This Points to His Divinity
The scene reinforces Jesus' fulfillment of the divine-shepherd role and his continuing authority over his people.
Response of the Hearers
Peter finally says, 'Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.'