요한복음 21:1-11의 내러티브 읽기 - 베드로의 인물성격과 역할을 중심으로 -

A Narrative Reading of John 21:1-11 - Centering on the characterization and role of Peter -

This article is a critical narrative analysis of John 21:1-11 by focusing on the characterization and role of Peter. The article assumes that John 21 is a natural narrative continuation of the previous chapters (1-20) and it tries to explore a narrative analysis of the fishing expedition and the miraculous catch of 153 fishes. The article is divided into four main scenes (vv. 1-3; vv. 4-6; vv. 7-8; and vv. 9-11) and investigates the critical narrative meaning of the engagement and interaction of main characters, Peter, the beloved disciple, and the risen Jesus. The emphasis is put on the characterization of Peter who engages in four different scenes in John 21:1-11. Peter lead the other six disciples on a fishing expedition(vv. 2-4), but they did not catch any fish that night. When the risen Jesus commanded them to cast the net on the right side of the boat, they caught a large number of fish. The beloved disciple recognized the miraculous catch of fish as a discerning sign pointing to Jesus on the beach, and delivers the confessional cry (“It is the Lord”) to Peter alone(21:7). Peter quickly wraps himself with his undergarment and jumps into the sea. The characterization of Peter (a bold leap-passion and action) and that of the beloved disciple (a confessional cry-perceptual faith) are not contrasting but cooperative toward the recognition and approach to the risen Jesus. Thus both disciples represent the ideal discipleship in Johannine community. The article emphasizes the role of Peter as a skillful missionary equipped with great power and care. Peter is the only disciple who obeys Jesus’ command (“bring some of the fish”) and draw the net, full of large fishes, 153, ashore without any damage on the net or losing any of the fishes by demonstrating his powerful missionary skill. The specific number ‘153’ also prophetically anticipates Peter’s missionary capability and accomplishment in a symbolic and historical representation for “catching men.” Peter’s powerful action in 21:11 implies his special role as a responsible leader for the Johannine community to bring people to Christ. For the mission and leadership of the community that exceeds the concerns and interests in John 1-20, the risen Jesus appears again to challenge his disciples (Peter) to draw the people and take care of them for the kingdom of God.