Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 21:18

"Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not." — John 21:18 (ASV)

The introduction of v.18 by “I tell you the truth” makes the statement of Jesus solemn and important. The author goes on to add an explanation of Jesus’ enigmatic words. They predicted Peter’s career: a new responsibility, a new danger, and violent death. Jesus placed Peter in a category with himself—a life spent for God and ultimately sacrificed to glorify God (cf. 12:27–32; 13:31). The command “Follow me” literally means “Keep on following me.” Jesus showed Peter that if he were to fulfill his promise of loyalty, he would have to follow him to his own cross.