Why did the disciples return to fishing after Jesus' resurrection?

First Sunday of Easter

Gospel John 21:1–14 Jesus appeared again to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias

Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples were there. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” The others said to him, “We will come with you.” They got into a boat and set out on the lake, but that night they caught nothing.

When morning came, Jesus stood on the shore, but his disciples did not recognize him. Jesus called out to them, “Men, do you have anything to eat?” “No,” they answered. Jesus said, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” So they cast the net, and they were not able to haul it in. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment and jumped into the water. The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, only about two hundred cubits.

When the disciples got ashore, they saw fish cooking on the coals and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to land. It was full of large fish, and although there were a lot of them—a hundred and fifty-three in all—the net was not torn.

Jesus said, “Come and eat.” None of the disciples dared to ask, “Who are you?” because they knew that it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and he gave the fish in the same way. This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead. (John 21:1–14, second edition)

Beginning

When we think about what happened after Jesus’ resurrection, many of us probably imagine joy and excitement. However, the disciples were not quite ready for the next step. Something significant happened on the shores of Galilee. Jesus had said he would meet them, but instead they went back to fishing. This decision speaks to their inner struggle and uncertainty. What made them return to their old lives, even though death had been defeated?

The Disciples’ Uncertainty

Jesus’ appearance to the disciples was like a moment of lapse. They had witnessed the ignominious death of their Master, and even though Jesus had risen from the dead, they still had questions. They had been involved in Jesus’ teachings and miracles for several years, but now the future seemed uncertain.

Doubts filled their minds: Was Jesus really involved in their lives? Could they continue his work without him? What was the real meaning of the resurrection? Their return to fishing symbolized fear and uncertainty – they were returning to a familiar and safe area, even though it represented their previous life. Fishing was work they understood, but it also reminded them that they had left something great behind.

Jesus’ Promises and the Disciples’ Doubts

Jesus’ promise to meet the disciples in Galilee carried great expectations. During the Sabbath and after the resurrection, they were to be proclaimers of the gospel, but it was not that simple. They found it difficult to see themselves as rulers, as Jesus had told them. They were still fishermen, and their reality did not change overnight.

When Jesus died and rose, he did it precisely for their benefit—but understanding that was overwhelming. This was because they felt weak and incapable of the great task before them. According to statistics, faith in Jesus can only be strengthened with the support of a community. When the disciples returned to fishing, they did not simply turn their backs on the task; they expressed the human need to reconnect with a lost hope.

The Conflict Between Love and Insecurity

The disciples’ decision to return to fishing was more profound than a mere practical choice. Their inability to grasp their place in the kingdom of God reflected deep love, but also great fear. They were afraid to speak of God and to heal the sick. Their leader and master had met with violence and death, and the dead could not be followed.

This was partly because they found it difficult to believe that they could be intermediaries in the kingdom of God when their own faith had been shaken and love seemed foggy and distant. Most of them may experience the same feeling of uncertainty when they are challenged to go their own way, and this connection could be strengthened by trusting in Jesus’ word.

Jesus’ Appearance on the Shore

Although the disciples had returned to fishing, Jesus did not forget them. He appeared to them on the shore, and this visit full of symbolism strengthened their faith. Why did Jesus choose this particular moment? This was a spark of light in the darkness, which gave them the assurance that Jesus had truly risen. The disciples did not recognize him at first—his resurrection body was special, and it affected their traditional beliefs.

When John realized that it was Jesus on the shore, his heart was set on fire. The catch of fish that Jesus had given them was a miracle that did not go unnoticed. This means that Jesus has control over everything, including nature. This moment was so powerful that it stirred in them confusion but also a spark of hope.

Peter’s reaction and rush to Jesus

Peter stood out from the other disciples. He did not dwell on his doubts, but he threw himself into the water and rushed to Jesus. This quick decision reflected a new attitude. Peter knew that he did not want to miss this opportunity. He was overcome by a longing for Jesus’ presence, and his actions were guided by emotion.

Peter’s reaction showed how much they all missed Jesus. He was ready to face their fears and uncertainties. This decision opened up a new possibility and a way to come to the truth.

Faith without seeing

Even if we do not experience the encounter with the risen Lord in the same way as the disciples, we can still believe. Faith in Jesus is based not only on a historical event, but also on an experience of the heart. The Gospel of John states: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). This is a timely truth even today.

Faith can calm the heart and move us forward, even though we cannot physically see Jesus. The disciples’ encounter with Jesus was enough to dispel their doubts. They received the certainty they needed to continue their lives differently than before.

Connection with the Risen One

The disciples’ encounter with Jesus on the shore was more than a repetition of distant history. It was a moment in which their inner questions met the reality of a miracle. Jesus’ appearance opened the door to their future. Our questions may remain, but the doubts of our hearts can be calmed by the presence of Jesus. He can bring peace in the midst of fears and the power of love that overcomes all challenges.

In conclusion

The disciples’ return to fishing after the resurrection reflects their inner uncertainty. They had many questions, but Jesus’ appearance on the shore changed everything. It strengthened their faith and opened up possibilities. Even though we cannot see Jesus physically, we can still believe in him and feel his presence in our hearts.

As the disciples turned their gaze back to Jesus, they received a message that lifted them up: “Jesus is alive!” This promise is valid for everyone. It ignites faith and hope in the midst of our lives. Even though we do not encounter Jesus in their way, we can experience his influence in our lives. The work of God’s kingdom continues, and the resurrection is a source of hope—we are never alone.