John 21:15–17 — “Feed” and “Tend”

In this passage, Yahusha (Jesus) restores Kepha (Peter) after his three denials and commissions him into shepherd-leadership over Messiah’s people.

“Feed” (Greek: boskō) — nourish / provide spiritual food

• Meaning: to feed/graze; to nourish the flock.
• Practical sense: teach and supply spiritual nourishment (Scripture, sound doctrine, reminders of Messiah’s words, encouragement, correction toward truth).

“Tend” (Greek: poimainō) — shepherd / guide / guard / oversee

• Meaning: to shepherd (not only teaching, but whole-life care).
• Practical sense:
  • guide and lead
  • protect from harm and false teaching
  • oversee and organize care
  • correct gently and restore the wandering or wounded

Why both?

Together they describe the full shepherd calling:

• Feed → what you give (truth and instruction)
• Tend/Shepherd → how you care (guidance, protection, oversight)

Yahusha’s repeated “My lambs / My sheep” emphasizes that the flock belongs to Messiah; the shepherd is a steward.