John 21 - Introduction

CHAPTER XXI.

This chapter is regarded by all modern critics as an appendix to John's Gospel, probably written at. later day than the body of the work. The reason for this view is not that its subject matter or style is not in harmony with the preceding Chapter s, but the closing verses of the preceding chapter seem to draw the whole to. fitting close. Westcott says: "It is impossible to suppose that it was the original design of the Evangelist to add the incidents of chapter 21 after the verses which form. solemn close of his record of the great history of the conflict of faith and unbelief in the life of Christ. And the general scope of the contents of this chapter is distinct from the development of the plan that is said to be completed in chapter 20. The manifestation of the Lord, which is given in detail in it, is not designed to create faith in the fact of his resurrection, but to illustrate his action in society; he guides, supports and assigns their parts to his disciples.

"On the other hand it is equally clear that the chapter was written by the author of the Gospel. The style and general character of the language alike lead to this conclusion; and there is no evidence to show that the Gospel was published before the appendix was added to it. The reason of the addition is probably to be found in the circulation of the saying of the Lord to John in verse 23. The clear exposition of this saying carried with it, naturally,. recital of the circumstances under which it was spoken." Alford takes the same view, saying: "In every part of it his (John's) hand is plain and unmistakable; in every part of it his character and spirit are manifested in. way which none but the most biased can fail to recognize.. believe it to have been added some years, probably, after the completion of the Gospel; partly, perhaps, to record the important miracle of the second draught of fishes, so full of spiritual instruction, and the interesting account of the Lord's sayings to Peter; but principally to meet the error that was becoming prevalent concerning himself," referring to the saying that he should not die. As these incidents, the Feeding of the Five Thousand, the Night Storm on Galilee, and the teaching and incidents of Capernaum recorded in Chapter s IV. and VI., all occurred upon the shores or waters of the same sea, it would help to consider. map of that celebrated body of water, so sacred as the center of the greater part of the Savior's earthly labors.