Peter’s Three-Fold Confession and Apostolic Obedience

In John 21:1–19, we witness a poignant moment of restoration and commissioning as Peter, who once denied Jesus three times, is gently led by the risen Christ through a three-fold confession of love. “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Jesus asks—not to shame Peter, but to heal him. With each affirmation, Jesus entrusts Peter with the care of His flock: “Feed my lambs… tend my sheep… Feed my sheep.” This moment is not only personal reconciliation; it is the re-establishment of Peter’s apostolic mission rooted in love and humility. As disciples, the question asked of Peter is also asked of us. Do we really love Jesus?

Later, in Acts 5:29, Peter boldly declares before the Sanhedrin, “We must obey God rather than men.” Here, the once-fearful disciple speaks with fearless conviction, now fully shaped by the experience of mercy and mission. Obedience to God becomes the defining mark of his leadership—an obedience not rooted in institutional power, but in profound love and surrender to Christ.

As the cardinal electors prepare to enter conclave to choose the next pope, Peter’s journey reminds the Church that leadership begins not in authority, but in love—tested, forgiven, and renewed. The next Successor of Peter must be one who, like the apostle, has been humbled by grace and emboldened by obedience to God above all. In this sacred task, may the Spirit guide the electors to discern not a figure of worldly influence, but a shepherd who listens first to Christ’s question: Do you love me? —and answers it with his life. we are all in it together and must accompany them to the conclave with our prayers.

Fr. Erasmus