John 21:21

21 Therefore when Peter had seen this disciple, he saith to Jesus, Lord, but what this [Lord, what forsooth this]?

John 21:21 Meaning and Commentary

John 21:21

Peter seeing him, saith to Jesus
Peter took a great deal of notice of John, and very likely understood, that he meant by his rising up and following Christ, to signify his readiness for service and suffering in the cause of Christ: and therefore says,

Lord, and what shall this man do?
The phrase in the original is very short and concise, "Lord, and this what?" The Arabic version renders it, "and this, of what mind is he?" it looks as if he was of the same mind with me to follow thee; but it is better rendered by us, "what shall this man do?" in what work and service shall he be employed, who seems as willing as I am to serve thee? or it may be rendered thus, "and what shall this man suffer?" shall he suffer at all? and if he shall, what kind of death shall he undergo? what will become of him? what will be his end? how will it fare with him? this he said, partly out of curiosity, and partly out of concern for him, they two being associates and intimates, who had a strong affection for each other.

John 21:21 In-Context

19 He said this thing, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had said these things, he saith to him, Follow thou me.

20 Peter turned, and saw that disciple following, whom Jesus loved, which also rested in the supper on his breast, and said to him, Lord, who is it, that shall betray thee?

21 Therefore when Peter had seen this disciple, he saith to Jesus, Lord, but what this [Lord, what forsooth this]?

22 Jesus saith to him, So I will that he dwell till I come, what to thee? follow thou me.

23 Therefore this word went out among the brethren, that that disciple dieth not. And Jesus said not to him, that he dieth not, but, So I will that he dwell till I come, what to thee?