John 21:9
What does John 21:9 mean?
A plain-English look at John 21:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 21:9 means
Upon reaching the shore, the disciples found a prepared meal waiting for them: a fire with fish already cooking on it, and bread. This detail is significant because Jesus had already provided for them even before they arrived with their own catch. It demonstrates His thoughtful and complete provision, not only for their spiritual needs but also for their physical ones. This pre-prepared meal speaks to Jesus' divine care and foresight.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000So when they got out upon the land, they see a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.
KJV
King James Version · 1611As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901So when they got out upon the land, they see a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949When they got to land, they saw a fire of coals there, with fish cooking on it, and bread.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862when, therefore, they came to the land, they behold a fire of coals lying, and a fish lying on it, and bread.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752As soon then as they came to land they saw hot coals lying, and a fish laid thereon, and bread.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890When therefore they went out on the land, they see a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread.
Context
As the disciples come ashore, this verse reveals Jesus' preparedness, having a meal already waiting for them. This detail highlights Jesus' initiative and provision, not just in the miraculous catch of fish, but in personal care. This sets a comforting and intimate tone for the meal that is about to take place, emphasizing Jesus' role as the benevolent host.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Kings 19:5
And he lay down and slept under a juniper-tree; and, behold, an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.
- John 18:18
Now the servants and the officers were standing there, having made a fire of coals; for it was cold; and they were warming themselves: and Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.
- John 21:10
Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now taken.
- John 21:13
Jesus cometh, and taketh the bread, and giveth them, and the fish likewise.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore John 21
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on John 21.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Abiding in Christ
Key scriptures reveal what it means to abide in Christ, emphasizing our continuous connection and dependence on Him for spiritual life and fruitfulness.
Topic
Bible Verses About Authority
Authority in the Bible refers to the divinely instituted right to command and influence, often reflecting God's sovereign rule and delegation to human leaders.
Topic
Bible Verses About Bible Reading
The Bible encourages us to read, study, and meditate on God’s Word to grow in faith and wisdom.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Losing a Loved One
When you can't stop imagining the worst — verses to put your loved one back in God's hands.
Verses for
Bible Verses for the Fear of Death
When you're afraid to die — what scripture promises about the last enemy.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Grief After Losing Someone You Love
When the room is empty — verses that grieve with you, not around you.