Simon was the original name of this apostle.  Cephas and Peter, which signify a rock, or stone, were names given him of Christ, expressive of that firmness of character, for which he was remarkable.  These though commonly used, after they were given him, were omitted on this occasion; probably as a tacit reproof of his denial of his Lord, a little before; which had been occasioned by the failure of his courage—­by the deficiency of his firmness.

The manner in which his divine master, here addressed this disciple, seemed to imply a doubt of his love; or of the supremacy of it.  CHRIST knew the heart.  Peter’s love was not hidden from him.  But while he dwelt with men, he treated people according to their apparent characters; thereby setting an example to his followers who can judge others only by appearances or that which is external.

Jesus did not immediately address himself to Peter, as soon as he had made himself known; but after he had been some time in the company of these friends and followers, and they had made a friendly meal together, he turned to this disciple, and in the presence of his brethren, who had witnessed his high professions of love, and determination never to forsake or deny him, and the part he had acted soon after, addressed him, as in the text; Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these?

What had happened a little before, rendered this question highly proper.  One of the twelve had fallen.  One, whom the others had not suspected.  Nothing had appeared, which marked out Judas for the traitor, during the time of his going out and in with the other disciples.  Christ, though he knew him, and gave frequent intimations that there was a traitor among them, had never designated him.  When they were told that one of them should betray their Lord, their eyes were not turned upon Judas, but each one appeared jealous of himself, “Lord is it I?” But his hypocrisy had now been made manifest and he had gone to his own place.  Such had he been found who was the steward in Christ’s family!  That with respect to him, the other disciples had been deceived, now appeared.  And Peter, who had been To forward and zealous, and professed such warm love to Christ, had lately denied him!  And though he had returned, professing himself a penitent, his sincerity is questioned, and he is called on, to clear up his character.

It was important that this matter should be determined, that the other disciples might know how to treat this late offender—­whether he was to be received as a brother, or to be considered as deposed from his office, and to be succeeded by another.  This was probably the reason of Christ’s addressing him, as here in the presence of his brethren. Lovest thou me more than these?

If he had the love of Christ dwelling in him, and that love was supreme, Christ would forgive the past and continue to employ him as a shepherd to feed his flock.  Therefore did he apply to this late offending pastor, and demand of him in the presence of his brethren, whether he really loved him, with such a love as was necessary to constitute him a disciple.