After the resurrection of Christ, during His third appearance to the disciples He spoke with Peter about tending to those who would become Christians.

Therefore, when they had eaten, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon of Jonah, do you love Me more than these? – John 21:15

Peter, along with some of the other disciples, went back to their fishing business after Christ’s death. However, Christ did not stay in the grave, for He was righteous and therefore God raised Him three days later, just as the Scripture stated. As they come to this realization, Jesus visits them multiple times, showing undeniable proof that He was raised. However, it was not time for the Kingdom to come in, now was the time of Grace. When the disciples realize the reality of what happened they begin to spread the word of the resurrected Christ. Peter, who had denied Christ because Satan persuaded him to be a coward, of which Peter was not, needed to be restored, so Jesus specifically speaks to him about caring for other saints.

In response to Jesus asking Peter if he loved Him more than fish, Peter replies, “he said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord, you intuitively know that I am fond of you.’” Jesus then instructed him to feed His lambs. This word used for lamb is actually one specifically used of those who are prepared for slaughter. As, unknown to the disciples at this time, persecution was going to come upon the Church because they were speaking the truth.

Jesus then asks Peter again if he loves him.

He said to him again a second time, “Simon of Jonah, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord you intuitively know that I […]