This chapter aims at defining the role of Peter in the early Church as both chief witness to the resurrection and shepherd of Christ’s sheep. The story as told here shows a definite relationship to the call of the disciples in Lk 5:1-11, but is placed after the resurrection in John so the details become symbolic of the ongoing role of Peter and the other disciples in the Church. Although Peter is clearly given authority, it is equally obvious that he does not fulfill this work alone. "The disciple Jesus loved," (presumably John) is the one who identifies Jesus in v 7, and the other disciples actually haul in the load of fish in vv 8-9. The catch of fish represents the saving work of the Church, which by human effort alone accomplishes nothing (v 3), but at the word and power of Jesus brings overwhelming results (v 6). The nourishment that Jesus gives for their task (vv 9-13) is his own gift rather than the fruit of their labors. And in this meal, which recalls the eucharist in a way similar to the Emmaus meal (see Lk 24:30-31), they grow in their recognition of him (v 12).

The triple question, response, and commission could perhaps be seen as a counterbalance to Peter’s triple denial (18:15-18, 25-27), but more probably is a ritual indication of the solemnity of this investiture to the office of shepherd. Repetition emphasizes the importance of the moment. Peter’s shepherding and witness would be to the point of suffering the violent death of a martyr, the ultimate act of following Jesus in his cross.

Read this passage in conjunction with the first trial (4:5-22) and the whole second trial (5:17-42). The emphasis here is upon witness, and it focuses on Peter. He is fulfilling the commission given to him the Gospel reading. While he affirms that they must obey God rather than the human authority that contradicts God’s sovereignty, he is careful to give legal basis to his witness, calling upon two sources of testimony, his own and the Holy Spirit’s (v 32, see Dt 19:15). This appeal to the Holy Spirit undoubtedly refers to the evidence of the works they performed (vv 12-16). The advice of Gamaliel (vv 34-39) is good advice for the present as well, when we must live with many apparently contradictory trends in the Church and in the world. Finally, the irrational punishment of the apostles indicates the strength and effectiveness of their witness, and was therefore cause for rejoicing (vv 40-41). What is weak and ineffective does not provoke violent antagonism.

This prayer of thanksgiving for recovery from a serious illness echoes the confident thanks of the disciples after experiencing God’s power in their witness. Response: "I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me."

Chapters 4 and 5 depict a majestic heavenly liturgy, patterned after early forms of Jewish and Christian ritual, but elevated to the splendor of the heavenly court. As the eucharist culminates in the communion with Christ in his sacrificial death and resurrection, so this apocalyptic liturgy comes to a climax in Christ as the Lamb slain but triumphant.

1. How does, or should, the Pope today as successor of Peter, exercise the power given him by Christ? What does reflection on the Gospel reading tell you about his responsibility?

2. How can pain, opposition, rejection, or apparent disregard be a sign of the effectiveness of God’s power in witnessing to the death and resurrection of Christ, and therefore be a cause for rejoicing?