What the Bible says
“As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.”
John 21:9 (KJV)
“Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine.”
John 21:12 (KJV)
“Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these?”
John 21:15 (KJV)
Back to the boats
After the crucifixion and even after seeing the risen Jesus, Peter went back to fishing, and the others went with him. They fished all night and caught nothing. From the shore a stranger told them where to cast, and the net filled. John recognised him first: It is the Lord.
A fire of coals
When they reached the shore, breakfast was already cooking. The words 'fire of coals' appear only twice in the New Testament: here, and in the high priest's courtyard where Peter warmed himself and denied Jesus three times (John 18:18). Jesus brought Peter back to the same kind of fire — not to shame him, but to heal him.
Three questions for three denials
After they had eaten, Jesus asked Peter three times, Lovest thou me? Each answer was followed by a calling: feed my sheep. The God who conquered death began with breakfast. He still meets people in their failure with food, warmth and a new task.
Common questions
Where did Jesus cook breakfast after the resurrection?
On the shore of the Sea of Tiberias (the Sea of Galilee), John 21:1–14.
Why did Jesus ask Peter three times if he loved him?
To restore him after his three denials. Each answer was met with a commission to feed his sheep (John 21:15–17).