Introduction:
The appearance of Jesus by the Sea of Tiberias is a significant post-resurrection event recorded in the Gospel of John. This encounter is rich with symbolism and meaning, highlighting the restoration and commissioning of the disciples, particularly Peter. The Sea of Tiberias, also known as the Sea of Galilee, serves as the backdrop for this miraculous event, which underscores Jesus' continued presence and guidance for His followers.

Biblical Account:
The account of Jesus appearing by the Sea of Tiberias is found in John 21:1-14. After His resurrection, Jesus manifested Himself to His disciples by the sea. The narrative begins with several disciples, including Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples, deciding to go fishing. Despite their efforts, they caught nothing throughout the night.

As dawn broke, Jesus stood on the shore, though the disciples did not recognize Him. He called out to them, "Children, do you have any fish?" When they answered no, He instructed them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." Following His command, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish (John 21:5-6).

Recognition and Response:
The disciple whom Jesus loved, traditionally understood to be John, recognized the Lord and exclaimed to Peter, "It is the Lord!" (John 21:7). In his characteristic zeal, Peter wrapped his outer garment around him and plunged into the sea to reach Jesus. The other disciples followed in the boat, dragging the net full of fish.

Upon reaching the shore, they found a charcoal fire with fish and bread prepared by Jesus. He invited them, "Come, have breakfast," and took the bread and fish, giving it to them (John 21:12-13). This act of sharing a meal further confirmed His physical resurrection and His continued fellowship with His disciples.

Symbolism and Significance:
The miraculous catch of fish is symbolic of the disciples' future mission. Just as they were successful in their catch by obeying Jesus' command, they would become "fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19) through His guidance and empowerment. The number of fish, 153, has been the subject of much interpretation, often seen as representing the universality of the Gospel message.

The setting by the Sea of Tiberias is also significant. It was here that Jesus first called some of His disciples, and now He reaffirms their calling. The shared meal echoes the Last Supper, reinforcing the continuity of Jesus' ministry and the establishment of the new covenant.

Peter's Restoration:
Following the meal, Jesus engages Peter in a poignant dialogue, asking him three times, "Do you love Me?" (John 21:15-17). This threefold question mirrors Peter's earlier threefold denial of Jesus, offering him a path to restoration and reaffirmation of his role as a leader among the disciples. Jesus' command to "Feed My sheep" signifies Peter's pastoral responsibility and the care for the early Christian community.

Conclusion:
The appearance of Jesus by the Sea of Tiberias is a profound testament to His resurrection and His enduring relationship with His disciples. It serves as a moment of restoration, commissioning, and a reminder of the disciples' mission to spread the Gospel to all nations. This event encapsulates the themes of obedience, recognition, and the transformative power of Christ's love and forgiveness.