Biblical Reference:
The account of Jesus appearing to His disciples by the Sea of Tiberias is found in the Gospel of John, chapter 21, verses 1-14. This event is one of the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus, demonstrating His continued presence and guidance for His followers.

Context and Setting:
The Sea of Tiberias, also known as the Sea of Galilee, is the setting for this significant encounter. After Jesus' resurrection, the disciples returned to Galilee, as instructed by Jesus (Matthew 28:10). The Sea of Tiberias was a familiar place for many of the disciples, who were fishermen by trade.

Narrative Overview:
In John 21:1-14, the disciples, including Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples, were together. Simon Peter decided to go fishing, and the others joined him. Despite fishing all night, they caught nothing.

At dawn, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not recognize Him. Jesus 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." They obeyed, and the net was filled with a large number of fish, so much so that they were unable to haul it in.

Recognizing the miracle, the disciple whom Jesus loved (traditionally understood to be John) said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" Peter, in his characteristic zeal, wrapped his outer garment around him and jumped into the sea to reach Jesus. The other disciples followed in the boat, dragging the net full of fish.

Upon reaching the shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish laid on it and bread. Jesus invited them to bring some of the fish they had just caught. Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net ashore, which was full of large fish, 153 in total, yet the net was not torn.

Jesus then invited them to have breakfast, taking the bread and giving it to them, and doing the same with the fish. This was the third time Jesus appeared to His disciples after His resurrection.

Theological Significance:
This appearance of Jesus is rich with theological meaning. The miraculous catch of fish echoes a similar event at the beginning of Jesus' ministry (Luke 5:1-11), reinforcing His divine authority and the call to be "fishers of men." The number of fish, 153, has been the subject of much speculation, often seen as symbolizing the universality of the Gospel message.

The act of Jesus preparing a meal for His disciples signifies His role as provider and sustainer. The shared meal is reminiscent of the Last Supper and points to the fellowship and communion believers have with Christ.

Furthermore, this encounter emphasizes the transformation of the disciples' mission. Despite their initial lack of success, obedience to Jesus' command results in abundance, illustrating the fruitfulness of ministry when guided by the Lord.

Key Themes and Lessons:
1. Recognition of Jesus: The disciples' initial failure to recognize Jesus highlights the need for spiritual discernment. It is through His actions and words that they come to know Him.

2. Obedience and Abundance: The disciples' willingness to follow Jesus' instructions, despite their previous efforts, leads to a miraculous outcome. This underscores the importance of obedience to Christ's guidance.

3. Restoration and Fellowship: The meal shared on the shore symbolizes restoration and fellowship with the risen Lord. It serves as a reminder of Jesus' continual presence and care for His followers.

4. Commissioning for Mission: The event foreshadows the Great Commission, as the disciples are prepared to spread the Gospel to all nations, empowered by the presence and authority of the risen Christ.

This appearance by the Sea of Tiberias is a profound testament to the reality of the resurrection and the ongoing relationship between Jesus and His disciples, providing assurance and direction for the early Church and believers throughout the ages.