After Jesus resurrected, He appeared several times to His disciples. On one occasion, He cooked them a meal. After the meal, He asked Peter if he loved Him. The word “love” that He used was “Agape.” This is the kind of love that we Christians should have for one another as described in 1 Corinthians 13.
Peter responded by saying that Jesus knew that he loved Him. The word Peter used for “love” was “Phileo.” This word means “brotherly love” like we love our good friends and brothers! Peter was saying that he loved Jesus like a brother. He was very fond and affectionate toward him. Jesus was asking for “Agape” love—a love which transcends affection and fondness! “Agape” is a love that loves regardless of “feelings” for an individual.
Jesus asked Peter a second time, “Do you Agape me?” Peter said, “You know that I Phileo you!” Jesus then asked him the third time, but this time He used the word “Phileo.” Peter became “grieved” and said I “Phileo” you! Jesus knew that Peter was His friend and acknowledged that fact, but he wanted Peter to see that his love must be deeper!
After each question Jesus asked Peter to feed his lambs and sheep. Jesus wanted Peter to watch over the believers and teach them to love. However, in order to lead, one must remain faithful himself! Jesus informed Peter that he would be persecuted for his love for Christ. There would be times that Peter would not “feel” love. If he were to remain faithful, he would have to develop Agape love!
[Editor’s Note: Of course, then, we likewise need to develop the highest form of love for each other and for our fellow man—saint and sinner. ~ Louis Rushmore, Editor]
