After the barbecue breakfast on the beach, Jesus turned to Peter.  Doubtless Peter was still ashamed of his triple denial of the Lord (Luke 22:54-62).  Perhaps he wondered how Jesus would treat him.  Speaking simply, Jesus addressed him by his formal name (Simon, son of John) and asked if he loved Jesus more than all the others did.  Peter had previously boasted that even if all the other disciples forsook Jesus, he never would (Mark 14:27-31).  But he did (Mark 14:66-72).

Now Jesus was going to challenge Peter and probe his love for Jesus.  The Saviour’s purpose was to recommission him so that he could strengthen the others (Luke 22:31-32).  There are a number of words in Greek which we translate as ‘to love’.  The word Jesus used for ‘love’ was ‘agapao’: this means a godlike and sacrificial love which is seen in self-giving whatever the cost.  However, Peter could not honestly say that he loved Jesus like that.  So, he responded with another word, “You know that I love (phileo) you.” ‘Phileo’ is a strong word, but it speaks of brotherly affection and mutual sharing; it is the fondness you see in any established relationship.  Twice Jesus asked the same question and twice Peter responded in the same way.

But the third time, Jesus changed the question asking if Peter was only fond of Him.  That question drove deep into Peter’s heart - he knew that the Lord had heard his unwillingness to declare his sacrificial love towards Him (as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8).  Peter admitted that there was too much self-interest in his way of loving, but also recognised that the Lord knew everything about him, and the disciple was content to be in His hands.  So, Jesus reaffirmed his calling to ministry by commanding him to feed the flock of God.
 
Most believers will admit that personal failure reflects a low level of sacrificial love for the Lord.  Our track record of spiritual failure often saps our confidence.  It reminds us of the times when we have only loved the Lord because of what He might do for us, rather than sacrificing ourselves in service and mission … because of what Jesus has already done for us on the cross.  Despite this, the Lord does not want His people, including us, as spectators, but as those who are fully involved and eager to work with Him so that His people might be strengthened.  Yet many relegate themselves to being ‘interested observers of God working through other people’ even though He has chosen to work specifically through you and me.  Let us not be disobedient to His call!