Comparison Kills

Text: John 21:20-25 (NLT)

Peter turned around and saw behind them the disciple Jesus loved—the one who had leaned over to Jesus during supper and asked, "Lord, who will betray you?" Peter asked Jesus, "What about him, Lord?" Jesus replied, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me." So the rumor spread among the community of believers that this disciple wouldn’t die. But that isn’t what Jesus said at all. He only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?" This disciple is the one who testifies to these events and has recorded them here. And we know that his account of these things is accurate. Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.

Introduction

Many of us have fallen into the comparison trap at some point in life. Whether in our careers, relationships, or even our spiritual walk, we measure ourselves against others, wondering, "Why do they seem more successful? Why do they have it easier?" Maybe you're not an eagles fan and think, why are the Eagles so much better than my team? LOL Peter finds himself in this exact mindset in John 21. Jesus has just restored him after his denial (John 21:15-19), yet instead of rejoicing in his calling, he turns and asks, "What about him?" referring to John. Jesus reminds Peter (and us) that His plans for others shouldn’t distract from our personal call to follow Him. Jesus doesn’t measure us by someone else’s journey; He calls us to be faithful where we are.

1. The Comparison Trap (vv. 20-22)

Peter, still processing his reinstatement, sees John following and asks, "What about him?" Jesus answers, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me."

Herman Ridderbos notes:

"John does not merely record history but interprets it in light of the redemptive work of Christ. This passage is not simply a moment of curiosity from Peter but a theological lesson on personal discipleship."

Jesus' response to Peter is one we all need to hear: "As for you, follow me."

Application: Avoid the Distraction of Comparison

It’s easy to compare our journey with others, but comparison is one of the most dangerous traps we can fall into. It steals our joy, fuels jealousy, and shifts our focus away from what God has uniquely called us to do. When we compare, we either feel inadequate or prideful—neither of which leads to spiritual growth. Instead of being grateful for our blessings, we become fixated on what we lack. Instead of celebrating the victories of others, we secretly wish we had what they do. But Jesus reminds us that faithfulness, not comparison, is the true measure of our walk with Him.

"Why do they seem more blessed?"

"How come things seem to be working out better for them than for me?"

"Why did they get the promotion and not me?"

But Jesus reminds us that our call is personal. Our faithfulness is not measured against others but by our obedience to Christ. When we focus too much on someone else's journey, we can miss what God is doing in our own lives. Comparison leads to resentment, distraction, and discouragement. But obedience leads to peace, purpose, and fulfillment. We aren’t called to someone else’s path; we are called to walk faithfully in the one God has designed for us.

Illustration:  "The moment you look at the runner next to you, you slow down." In our spiritual race, the same is true—comparison distracts us from Jesus.

GOD WILL BE AS CLOSE TO YOU AS YOU WANT HIM TO BE. >>> It’s not God’s fault!

Ridderbos' Insight

Ridderbos emphasizes that John's Gospel teaches that "the focus of discipleship is not on human competition but on the sovereign will of Christ over each person's life."

2. The Misunderstanding  (vv. 23-24)

The disciples misinterpret Jesus’ words, thinking John will never die. John clarifies that Jesus didn’t promise that, but simply stated, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"

Application: Trust God's Plan for Your Life

We may not understand why God allows certain things to happen. Some people seem to experience success effortlessly, while others face constant struggles. Some live long, full lives, while others are taken from us too soon. Some ministries thrive with growth and influence, while others labor in obscurity. This can be difficult to accept, especially when we feel like we are doing everything right and still facing challenges. But God’s plan is perfect, even when we can’t see the full picture. Our role is to trust and follow, knowing that His timing, His will, and His purposes are always greater than our understanding. When we surrender our need for control and embrace His direction, we find peace in the midst of uncertainty.

Illustration: Corrie ten Boom, who survived the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp, later said:

"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."

BLESSING BLOCKER >>> GOVERNOR STORY

Jesus calls us to faithfulness, not certainty. Right now, our church is in a season of change—new faces, new challenges, and new opportunities. It can be unsettling when things don't feel familiar, but God isn’t calling us to have every detail figured out. He’s calling us to trust Him, even when the path forward isn’t completely clear. When we anchor ourselves in His faithfulness rather than our need for control, we can step forward with confidence, knowing He is leading the way.

3. The Testimony  (vv. 24-25)

John ends his Gospel by affirming the truth of his testimony, ensuring that future generations can trust in the accuracy of his witness. He recognizes that what he recorded is only a glimpse of all that Jesus did. If every miracle, every act of kindness, every word of wisdom, and every life changed by Christ were written down, the sheer volume would be immeasurable. This reminds us that Jesus' impact cannot be contained within the pages of a book—it extends throughout history and into our lives today. His work is still unfolding, and we are called to be part of that ongoing testimony.

Application: The Gospel Is Unstoppable

John’s testimony has endured for over 2,000 years, standing as a powerful witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The impact of His ministry is not confined to ancient times; it continues to shape lives today. Throughout history, countless individuals have encountered Christ, experienced transformation, and shared their stories of faith. Your story matters just as much. The same Jesus who called Peter and John calls you to follow Him today, no matter where you are in your journey. He invites you to be part of His ongoing work, to trust Him in times of uncertainty, and to walk boldly in the purpose He has set before you.

Talk about the eternal connection with John and the end of the BOOK

Illustration: Think about a river that has flowed for thousands of years. It doesn’t stop moving just because a boulder lands in its path or a tree falls into the water. Instead, it finds a way around, over, or through, shaping the landscape as it goes. The Gospel works the same way—it has endured persecution, skepticism, and cultural change, yet it keeps moving forward, transforming hearts and lives. Just as the river carves new paths and creates fresh landscapes, Jesus continues His work in new ways, touching lives today just as He did in the past. The same Jesus who walked with Peter and John is still reaching and restoring people today, no matter what obstacles appear in their lives.

Gospel Invitation

John’s Gospel was written so that we might believe (John 20:31). For those of you who haven’t surrendered to Jesus, today is the day.

The Gospel in Four Truths

God loves you – “For God so loved the world…” (John 3:16)

Sin separates us from God – “The wages of sin is death…” (Rom. 6:23)

Jesus paid the price – “Christ died for our sins…” (1 Cor. 15:3)

Salvation is a gift – “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Rom. 10:13)

Church Family, let's lead someone to Jesus together today.... 

Sinner’s Prayer: "Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again. Today, I repent and trust in You alone for my salvation. Come into my life and help me follow You. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Closing Challenge

Jesus' final words to Peter were simple: "Follow me." This is His call to us today. Stop comparing, trust His plan, and testify of His goodness.

May we be faithful to follow Him—no matter the cost.

Amen.