Joh 21:1

Background: the apostles had been told to go to Galilee to wait for Jesus (Mat 28:10).

SEA OF TIBERIAS: This name used only in Gospel of John. City of Tiberias was of no consequence until after AD 70. Thus this mention fixes date at after AD 70 (LB 398).

Joh 21:2

Seven disciples listed; where are the others?

Joh 21:3

THEY CAUGHT NOTHING: The 7 apostles attempt to sustain themselves by old livelihood. But they are totally unsuccessful: they catch nothing all night. Were they doing the wrong kind of fishing? (ct Joh 17:18; 20:21). Cp Psa 127:1.

Joh 21:4

Vv 4-6: Cp with Luk 5:4-7. Both incidents have: (1) sea of Galilee, (2) toiled all night, (3) no success at all, (4) at command of Jesus, they let down nets again; and (5) miraculously, a great catch of fish.

Contrasts with Luk 5: