An exegetical study of John 21:15-17 and its implications to the young pastors of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC)

Abstract

This research paper was inspired by a personal and experiential search for a biblical truth on the pastoral vocation. This study aimed to exegete John 21:15-17 and draw out its implications to the young pastors of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches today. The findings of this research paper speak about the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to love, love for Jesus, valuing Jesus’ flock, service, mission, denial and reinstatement, and leadership. This study also concluded that it was not John who wrote the last chapter but a redactor, editor, or a final writer. The most plausible reason for the writing of the epilogue was to emphasize the death of John and leadership role of Peter to the early church. The last chapter supports the prominence of Peter which was given by Jesus to lead and love his fellow disciples. The findings of this research brought implications to the vocation of the young pastors of CPBC in terms of the example of Peter. The threefold questions and commands of Jesus to Peter implies the same principle of ministry for today’s young pastors. Pastoral vocation draws its strength from the Holy Spirit and converts it into an action of love. It is impossible for the young pastors of CPBC today to be successful in the ministry today if they are not led by the Holy Spirit.