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However, Jesus did not say that he would not die, but only, "If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you?"</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/john/21-23.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/13/43_Jhn_21_23.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="John 21:23 - Jesus and the Beloved Apostle" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. 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But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, &#8220If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?&#8221 <a href="/nlt/john/21.htm">New Living Translation</a> So the rumor spread among the community of believers that this disciple wouldn’t die. But that isn’t what Jesus said at all. He only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?” <a href="/esv/john/21.htm">English Standard Version</a> So the saying spread abroad among the brothers that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” <a href="/bsb/john/21.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. However, Jesus did not say that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you?” <a href="/blb/john/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore this saying went out among the brothers, that this disciple does not die. But Jesus had not said to him that he does not die, but, "If I desire him to remain until I come, what is it to you?" <a href="/kjv/john/21.htm">King James Bible</a> Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? <a href="/nkjv/john/21.htm">New King James Version</a> Then this saying went out among the brethren that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?” <a href="/nasb_/john/21.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Therefore this account went out among the brothers, that that disciple would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?” <a href="/nasb/john/21.htm">NASB 1995</a> Therefore this saying went out among the brethren that that disciple would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, &#8220If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/john/21.htm">NASB 1977 </a> This saying therefore went out among the brethren that that disciple would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?” <a href="/lsb/john/21.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Therefore this saying went out among the brothers that this disciple would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?” <a href="/amp/john/21.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So this word went out among the brothers that this disciple (John) was not going to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not going to die, but only, “If I want him to stay alive until I come [again], what is that to you?” <a href="/csb/john/21.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> So this rumor spread to the brothers and sisters that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not tell him that he would not die, but, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? ” <a href="/hcsb/john/21.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> So this report spread to the brothers that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not tell him that he would not die, but, &#8220If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?&#8221 <a href="/asv/john/21.htm">American Standard Version</a> This saying therefore went forth among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, that he should not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? <a href="/cev/john/21.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> So the rumor spread among the other disciples that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say he would not die. He simply said, "What is it to you, if I want him to live until I return?" <a href="/erv/john/21.htm">English Revised Version</a> This saying therefore went forth among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, that he should not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? <a href="/gwt/john/21.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> So a rumor that that disciple wouldn't die spread among Jesus' followers. But Jesus didn't say that he wouldn't die. What Jesus said was, "If I want him to live until I come again, how does that concern you?" <a href="/gnt/john/21.htm">Good News Translation</a> So a report spread among the followers of Jesus that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say he would not die; he said, "If I want him to live until I come, what is that to you?" <a href="/isv/john/21.htm">International Standard Version</a> So the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple wasn't going to die. Yet Jesus didn't say to Peter that he wasn't going to die, but, "If it's my will for him to remain until I come back, how does that concern you?" <a href="/msb/john/21.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. However, Jesus did not say that he would not die, but only, ?If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you?? <a href="/net/john/21.htm">NET Bible</a> So the saying circulated among the brothers and sisters that this disciple was not going to die. But Jesus did not say to him that he was not going to die, but rather, "If I want him to live until I come back, what concern is that of yours?" <a href="/nheb/john/21.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> This saying therefore went out among the brothers, that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, "If I desire that he stay until I come, what is that to you?" <a href="/wbt/john/21.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Then this saying went abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not to him, He shall not die; but, if I will that he shall tarry till I come, what is that to thee? <a href="/wey/john/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Hence the report spread among the brethren that that disciple would never die. Yet Jesus did not say, "He is not to die," but, "If I desire him to remain till I come, what concern is that of yours?" <a href="/web/john/21.htm">World English Bible</a> This saying therefore went out among the brothers that this disciple wouldn’t die. Yet Jesus didn’t say to him that he wouldn’t die, but, “If I desire that he stay until I come, what is that to you?” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/john/21.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> This word, therefore, went forth to the brothers that this disciple does not die, yet Jesus did not say to him that he does not die, but, “If I will him to remain until I come, what [is that] to you?” <a href="/blb/john/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Therefore this saying went out among the brothers, that this disciple does not die. But Jesus had not said to him that he does not die, but, "If I desire him to remain until I come, what is it to you?" <a href="/ylt/john/21.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> yet Jesus did not say to him, that he doth not die, but, 'If him I will to remain till I come, what -- to thee?' <a href="/slt/john/21.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Then went out the word to the brethren, That this disciple dies not: and Jesus said not to him, That he dies not; but, If I will him to remain till I come, what to thee?<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/john/21.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> This saying therefore went abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die. And Jesus did not say to him: He should not die; but, So I will have him to remain till I come, what is it to thee? <a href="/cpdv/john/21.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Therefore, the saying went out among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you?” <a href="/nabre/john/21.htm">New American Bible</a> So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die. But Jesus had not told him that he would not die, just “What if I want him to remain until I come? [What concern is it of yours?]” <a href="/nrsvce/john/21.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> So the rumor spread in the community that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/john/21.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> This word then went out among the brethren, that that disciple would not die. But what Jesus said was not that he would not die; but, If I wish that he should remain until I come back, what difference does that make to you? <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/john/21.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And this saying went forth among the brethren that this disciple would not die. But Yeshua had not said that he would not die, but, “If I want this one to remain until I come to you, what is it to you?”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/john/21.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Therefore, this saying went out among the brethren, that that disciple should not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?<CM> <a href="/godbey/john/21.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> Then that word went out to the brethren that that disciple does not die. And Jesus did not say to him, that he does not die; but, <FR>If I wish him to tarry until I come.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/john/21.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Then this speech went forth among the disciples, as though this disciple was not to die: yet Jesus had not said to him, That he shall not die; but, If I will that he abide till I come, what is that to thee?<CM> <a href="/mace/john/21.htm">Mace New Testament</a> which occasion'd a flying rumour among the brethren, that John should not die: tho' Jesus had not said, he shall not die: but, if I will have him stay till I come, what have you to do with that? <a href="/wey/john/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Hence the report spread among the brethren that that disciple would never die. Yet Jesus did not say, "He is not to die," but, "If I desire him to remain till I come, what concern is that of yours?" <a href="/worrell/john/21.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> This saying, therefore, went forth among the brethren, that that disciple should not die; yet Jesus did not say to him, that he should not die, but, <FR>"If I wish him to remain till I come, what is it to you?"<Fr> <a href="/worsley/john/21.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> This rumor therefore was spread among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: though Jesus did not say that he should not die, but---<FR>if I will that he stay till I come, what <Fr>is that<FR> to thee?<Fr> <a href="/parallel/john/21-23.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ixy2bchmXZ0?start=7556" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/john/21.htm">Jesus and the Beloved Apostle</a> …22Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you? You follow Me!” 23<a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly.">Because of</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: houtos (DPro-NMS) -- This; he, she, it. ">this,</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logos (N-NMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">rumor</a> <a href="/greek/1831.htm" title="1831: exēlthen (V-AIA-3S) -- To go out, come out. From ek and erchomai; to issue.">spread</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">among</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/80.htm" title="80: adelphous (N-AMP) -- A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.">brothers</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/1565.htm" title="1565: ekeinos (DPro-NMS) -- That, that one there, yonder. From ekei; that one (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed.">this</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3101.htm" title="3101: mathētēs (N-NMS) -- A learner, disciple, pupil. From manthano; a learner, i.e. Pupil.">disciple</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">would not</a> <a href="/greek/599.htm" title="599: apothnēskei (V-PIA-3S) -- To be dying, be about to die, wither, decay. From apo and thnesko; to die off.">die.</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">However,</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2424.htm" title="2424: Iēsous (N-NMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.">Jesus</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipen (V-AIA-3S) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">did not say</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autō (PPro-DM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/599.htm" title="599: apothnēskei (V-PIA-3S) -- To be dying, be about to die, wither, decay. From apo and thnesko; to die off.">he would not die,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but only,</a> <a href="/greek/1437.htm" title="1437: Ean (Conj) -- If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.">“If</a> <a href="/greek/2309.htm" title="2309: thelō (V-PSA-1S) -- To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. ">I want</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">him</a> <a href="/greek/3306.htm" title="3306: menein (V-PNA) -- To remain, abide, stay, wait; with acc: I wait for, await. A primary verb; to stay.">to remain</a> <a href="/greek/2193.htm" title="2193: heōs (Conj) -- A conjunction, preposition and adverb of continuance, until.">until</a> <a href="/greek/2064.htm" title="2064: erchomai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- To come, go. ">I return,</a> <a href="/greek/5101.htm" title="5101: ti (IPro-NNS) -- Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what.">what is that</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: se (PPro-A2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you?” </a> 24This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who has written them down. And we know that his testimony is true.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/16-28.htm">Matthew 16:28</a> Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” <a href="/matthew/24-34.htm">Matthew 24:34</a> Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened. <a href="/mark/9-1.htm">Mark 9:1</a> Then Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God arrive with power.” <a href="/luke/9-27.htm">Luke 9:27</a> But I tell you truly, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.” <a href="/john/14-3.htm">John 14:3</a> And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am. <a href="/john/14-19.htm">John 14:19</a> In a little while the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you also will live. <a href="/john/16-16.htm">John 16:16</a> In a little while you will see Me no more, and then after a little while you will see Me.” <a href="/john/16-22.htm">John 16:22</a> So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. <a href="/acts/1-11.htm">Acts 1:11</a> “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” <a href="/1_corinthians/15-51.htm">1 Corinthians 15:51</a> Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-15.htm">1 Thessalonians 4:15-17</a> By the word of the Lord, we declare to you that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who have fallen asleep. / For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise. / After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord. <a href="/2_peter/3-4.htm">2 Peter 3:4</a> “Where is the promise of His coming?” they will ask. “Ever since our fathers fell asleep, everything continues as it has from the beginning of creation.” <a href="/revelation/1-7.htm">Revelation 1:7</a> Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. <a href="/revelation/22-20.htm">Revelation 22:20</a> He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! <a href="/genesis/5-24.htm">Genesis 5:24</a> Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, because God had taken him away.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Then went this saying abroad among the brothers, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not to him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to you?what.<a href="/deuteronomy/29-29.htm">Deuteronomy 29:29</a> The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.<a href="/job/28-28.htm">Job 28:28</a> And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.<a href="/job/33-13.htm">Job 33:13</a> Why dost thou strive against him? for he giveth not account of any of his matters.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/john/11-52.htm">Abroad</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Alive</a> <a href="/john/21-19.htm">Death</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Die</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Disciple</a> <a href="/john/20-15.htm">Hence</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/john/12-38.htm">Report</a> <a href="/john/12-17.htm">Spread</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Tarry</a> <a href="/luke/24-46.htm">Undergo</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Want</a> <a href="/john/21-22.htm">Word</a> <a href="/john/19-31.htm">Wouldn't</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/acts/2-6.htm">Abroad</a> <a href="/acts/1-3.htm">Alive</a> <a href="/acts/2-23.htm">Death</a> <a href="/acts/7-46.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/acts/7-19.htm">Die</a> <a href="/john/21-24.htm">Disciple</a> <a href="/acts/1-5.htm">Hence</a> <a href="/john/21-25.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/acts/5-24.htm">Report</a> <a href="/acts/2-6.htm">Spread</a> <a href="/acts/10-48.htm">Tarry</a> <a href="/acts/2-27.htm">Undergo</a> <a href="/acts/4-34.htm">Want</a> <a href="/acts/1-4.htm">Word</a> <a href="/john/21-25.htm">Wouldn't</a><div class="vheading2">John 21</div>1. <a href="/john/21-1.htm">Jesus appearing again to his disciples is known of them by the great catch of fish.</a> 12. <a href="/john/21-12.htm">He dines with them;</a> 15. <a href="/john/21-15.htm">earnestly commands Peter to feed his lambs and sheep;</a> 18. <a href="/john/21-18.htm">foretells him of his death;</a> 22. <a href="/john/21-22.htm">rebukes his curiosity.</a> 24. <a href="/john/21-24.htm">The conclusion.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/21.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/john/21.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. This phrase highlights the early Christian community's tendency to misunderstand or misinterpret Jesus' words. The "brothers" refers to the early followers of Jesus, indicating a close-knit community. The rumor about the disciple not dying likely stemmed from a misunderstanding of Jesus' words, reflecting the human tendency to focus on sensational or miraculous aspects. This also underscores the importance of careful interpretation of Jesus' teachings. The disciple in question is traditionally understood to be John, the author of the Gospel, who lived to an old age, which may have fueled the rumor.However, Jesus did not say that he would not die, This clarifies the misunderstanding, emphasizing the need for accurate comprehension of Jesus' words. It serves as a reminder that Jesus' statements often had deeper spiritual meanings rather than literal interpretations. This correction is crucial for maintaining doctrinal accuracy within the early church. It also highlights the role of the Gospel writer in providing clarity and correcting misconceptions among believers.but only, “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you?” This phrase reflects Jesus' sovereignty and authority over life and death, as well as His divine prerogative to determine the fate of His followers. The conditional "If I want" suggests that Jesus' plans are not always revealed to His disciples, emphasizing trust in His divine will. The mention of "until I return" alludes to the Second Coming, a central eschatological hope in Christian theology. This statement also serves as a gentle rebuke to Peter, reminding him to focus on his own calling rather than being concerned with God's plans for others. This teaching aligns with other scriptural themes of individual responsibility and trust in God's overarching plan.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus_christ.htm">Jesus Christ</a> The central figure in this passage, who speaks to Peter about the future of the beloved disciple. 2. <a href="/topical/p/peter.htm">Peter (Simon Peter)</a> One of Jesus' closest disciples, who is concerned about the fate of another disciple. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_beloved_disciple.htm">The Beloved Disciple (John)</a> Traditionally understood to be John, the author of the Gospel, who is the subject of the rumor. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_brothers.htm">The Brothers</a> Refers to the early Christian community or the disciples who spread the rumor. 5. <a href="/topical/r/rumor.htm">Rumor</a> The misunderstanding among the disciples regarding Jesus' words about John's fate.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/f/focus_on_your_calling.htm">Focus on Your Calling</a> Jesus' response to Peter emphasizes the importance of focusing on one's own calling and mission rather than being preoccupied with others' destinies. <a href="/topical/a/avoiding_misunderstandings.htm">Avoiding Misunderstandings</a> The passage highlights how easily misunderstandings can spread within a community, urging believers to seek clarity and truth. <a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_sovereignty.htm">Trust in God's Sovereignty</a> Jesus' words remind us that God has a unique plan for each person, and we should trust in His sovereign will. <a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_rumors.htm">The Danger of Rumors</a> The spread of the rumor among the brothers serves as a caution against the dangers of gossip and assumptions within the church. <a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective.htm">Eternal Perspective</a> The passage encourages believers to maintain an eternal perspective, focusing on Christ's return and the fulfillment of His promises.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_john_21.htm">Top 10 Lessons from John 21</a> <a href="/q/how_did_apostle_john_die.htm">What was the cause of Apostle John's death?</a> <a href="/q/origin_of_belief__'beloved_disciple'_immortal.htm">John 21:20–23 – Where did the belief originate that the “disciple whom Jesus loved” would never die, and what does it imply about the credibility of the text? </a> <a href="/q/how_does_jesus_eat_post-resurrection.htm">John 21:12-14 - How is Jesus physically present and eating with his disciples post-resurrection, given standard biological and historical considerations?</a> <a href="/q/john_21_6_-_how_did_they_catch_so_many_fish.htm">John 21:6 - How could the disciples instantly catch such a huge number of fish after being unsuccessful all night, in a way that defies normal fishing practices?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/john/21.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(23) Then (better, therefore) went this saying abroad among the brethren.--For the word "brethren" comp. Notes on <a href="/matthew/23-8.htm" title="But be not you called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all you are brothers.">Matthew 23:8</a> and <a href="/acts/9-30.htm" title="Which when the brothers knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.">Acts 9:30</a>. As a general name for the disciples, it is not elsewhere found in the Gospels, but we have the key to it in our Lord's own words to Mary Magdalene (<a href="/john/20-17.htm" title="Jesus said to her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brothers, and say to them, I ascend to my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.">John 20:17</a>).Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If. . . .--The mistake of the brethren arose from their not attending to the force of the conditional particle. They took as a statement what had been said as a supposition, and understood it in the then current belief that the Second Advent would come in their own generation. (Comp. <a href="/context/1_corinthians/15-51.htm" title="Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,">1Corinthians 15:51-52</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-17.htm" title="Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.">1Thessalonians 4:17</a>.) . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/john/21.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 23. - We need not be surprised that the sublime meaning of these words, "Wait while I am ever coming to him," should have been misunderstood. Therefore this word went forth to the brethren. The designation, "brethren," only occurs in <a href="/john/20-17.htm">John 20:17</a> and <a href="/luke/22-32.htm">Luke 22:32</a>. The more familiar names of "disciples" and "children," "servants" and "apostles," are used in the Gospels. The Acts and Epistles introduce a new group of titles, e.g. "believers" as well as "brethren," "saints" as well as "disciples," "Christians," "slaves and soldiers of Christ," "sons of God," "priests and kings," and "little children;" but now, acting on the Divine hint of the Lord's own words, John speaks of his fellow-disciples who are called into the sacred fellowship as "brethren." The word went forth that that disciple dieth not (ἐκεῖνος, equivalent to "the disciple whom Jesus loved"). This was not an unnatural supposition, as his age advanced, and he was regarded as the "great light of Asia," the depositary of the latest traditions, as the link between the days of our Lord's ministry and two succeeding generations of believers, the seer of mighty visions, the enemy of all unrighteousness, and the apostle of love to the lost. In virtue of this very tradition, three hundred years later it was said that the holy apostle was still sleeping in his tomb at Ephesus, and that the dust moved lightly on his heaving breast (Augustine, 'Tr. on John,' 124:2). Here was the beginning of a genuine myth, which, having no real root in fact, failed to establish itself. "John the Baptist is risen from the dead," exclaimed Herod Antipas, "and therefore mighty powers energize in him." But there was no life and no truth in the story, and even among the disciples of St. John Baptist it did not take any place as a supposed fact. It is interesting to see that here a myth was started without positively bad faith, and based itself upon a recorded saying of the Lord; but it perished! The aged apostle strikes the folly dead with one stroke of his pen. The language is remarkable, as helping to prove that John wrote this chapter as well as the rest of the Gospel. Yet Jesus said not unto him, that he dieth not; but, If I will that he abide while I am ever coming, what is that to thee? Meyer, who always insists on the apostolic idea of the nearness of the παρουσία, thinks that John does not decide here whether the rumor was true or false, and simply says it must, when he wrote, have been left still uncertain and unsettled (so Luther). The tradition is not authoritatively condemned; but it is shown to be a mere inference, one inference out of many, from words partially understood. The Epistles of John show how deeply John pondered the idea, and how much he crowded into the words, "abide in him," until the coming, and before and during and after the various comings of the Lord to him. Mr. Browning, in 'A Death in the Desert,' makes St. John say in his last hours - "If I live yet, it is for good, more love Through me to men: be naught but ashes here That keep awhile my semblance, who was John - Still when they scatter, there is left on earth." No one alive who knew (consider this!) - Saw with his eyes and handled with his hands That which was from the first, the Word of life. How will it be when none more saith, 'I saw '? Such ever was love's way: to rise, it stoops. Since I, whom Christ's mouth taught, was bidden teach, I went, for many years, about the world, Saying, 'It was so; so I heard and saw,'? Speaking as the ease asked: and men believed. * * * "To me that story - ay, that Life and Death Of which I wrote 'it was' - to me it is; - Is, here and now: I apprehend naught else. Yea, and the Resurrection and Uprise To the right hand of the throne -... I saw the Power; I see the Love, once weak, Resume the Power; and in this word 'I see' Lo, there is recognized the Spirit of both That moving o'er the spirit of man, unblinds His eye and bids him look.... Then stand before that fact, that Life and Death, Stay there at gaze, till it dispart, dispread, As though a star should open out, all sides, Grow the world on you, as it is my world." In ver. 23 we find the significant close of the Fourth Gospel, and there is much to make it highly probable that the two remaining verses were added by the Ephesian elders, as their certificate of its authorship, and their identification of the beloved disciple with the author of the Gospel. It differs from the similar passage, <a href="/john/19-35.htm">John 19:35</a>, where the writer himself gives his own autoptic testimony to the great miracle of the spear-thrust; and where that testimony is declared by himself to be ἀληθινή, "veritable," i.e. answering to the very idea of testimony. Here the person and verb are plural. <a href="/commentaries/john/21-23.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Because of οὖν (oun) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3767.htm">Strong's 3767: </a> Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly. this, οὗτος (houtos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. the ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. rumor λόγος (logos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. spread ἐξῆλθεν (exēlthen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1831.htm">Strong's 1831: </a> To go out, come out. From ek and erchomai; to issue. among εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. the τοὺς (tous) Article - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. brothers ἀδελφοὺς (adelphous) Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_80.htm">Strong's 80: </a> A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. this ἐκεῖνος (ekeinos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1565.htm">Strong's 1565: </a> That, that one there, yonder. From ekei; that one (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed. disciple μαθητὴς (mathētēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3101.htm">Strong's 3101: </a> A learner, disciple, pupil. From manthano; a learner, i.e. Pupil. {would} not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. die. ἀποθνήσκει (apothnēskei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_599.htm">Strong's 599: </a> To be dying, be about to die, wither, decay. From apo and thnesko; to die off. However, δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. Jesus Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2424.htm">Strong's 2424: </a> Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. did not say εἶπεν (eipen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. he would not die, ἀποθνήσκει (apothnēskei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_599.htm">Strong's 599: </a> To be dying, be about to die, wither, decay. From apo and thnesko; to die off. but only, ἀλλ’ (all’) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. “If Ἐὰν (Ean) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1437.htm">Strong's 1437: </a> If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc. I want θέλω (thelō) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2309.htm">Strong's 2309: </a> To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. him αὐτὸν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. to remain μένειν (menein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_3306.htm">Strong's 3306: </a> To remain, abide, stay, wait; with acc: I wait for, await. A primary verb; to stay. until ἕως (heōs) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2193.htm">Strong's 2193: </a> A conjunction, preposition and adverb of continuance, until. I return, ἔρχομαι (erchomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2064.htm">Strong's 2064: </a> To come, go. what [is that] τί (ti) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5101.htm">Strong's 5101: </a> Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. you?? σέ (se) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/john/21-23.htm">John 21:23 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/john/21-23.htm">NT Gospels: John 21:23 This saying therefore went out among (Jhn Jo Jn) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/john/21-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="John 21:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="John 21:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/john/21-24.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="John 21:24"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="John 21:24" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>