Jesus came to his disciples in their moment of perplexity. He had already revealed himself on 2 previous occasions and then retreated. The disciples were perplexed and probably downcast. Peter typifies their mood when he said “I am going fishing.” He had had enough. The one he had trusted and followed was no longer with them. Peter was going back to what he was doing before he met Jesus. The others followed suit saying “We are going with you.”

It was while the perplexed disciples were fishing that Jesus revealed himself a third time. Jesus came to them in their hour of perplexity. We should be grateful to our Lord Jesus that he comes to us in our times of perplexity. Next Tuesday is Anzac Day when we remember those who have died in war. We rightly recall the sacrifices made for our freedom. But some people may be perplexed about the whole issue of war. Why does a God of love allow war? Is this what perplexes you? War is a consequence of sin and so long as sin remains in the world so war shall remain also. Jesus comes to us in his word and in our perplexity gives us understanding. He did so with his disciples when they were perplexed. He does so today if we but prayerfully study his word.

Jesus came to his disciples in a way that they realised their incapabilities. They had toiled all night and caught no fish. Jesus then called out to them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. They did so and caught a great multitude of fish. These men were professional fishermen but their expertise meant nothing on this occasion. They caught nothing. But when Jesus gave them directions they caught lots of fish. When Jesus revealed himself he exposed the inadequacies of the disciples and manifested his own power.

We know God best when we know our incapability and his power. This is at the heart of Reformed theology. The Protestant Reformers recovered the dual truth that people are spiritually incapable but God is sovereign and almighty. How we should rejoice in this knowledge of the Lord’s power. It humbles us and exalts him. The disciples were incapable. They caught nothing. Jesus was omnipotent. He gave them what they sought and they were humbled, recognising his power.

Jesus came to his disciples in a way that they were familiar with. Jesus had miraculously provided fish before (Luke 5:1-11). He does so again. Being familiar with the work of fishing the disciples recognised only Jesus could have wrought these two miracles. He dealt with his disciples in a way they understood.

We come to know who Jesus is because he deals with us in ways that connect. We are all different. Our hearts and minds have special areas of interest. When people are converted they connect with the gospel message. Jesus deals with people in the area of their interest and concerns. He draws us in familiar ways. I have always had an interest in history and when I was converted the Lord showed me the connection between history and Biblical prophecy. For the first time in my life I realised that God rules over all events. It was through my interest in history that Jesus drew me to himself.

Jesus came to his disciples in a way that they recognised him. It was John who first identified the Lord. After the great haul of fish he said to Peter “It is the Lord.” Later, when the disciples were gathered with Jesus on the sea shore we are told “none of the disciples dared ask him ‘Who are you?’ ” They knew it was Jesus. There were no doubts; no mistaken identity.

When people come to faith in Jesus they are certain who Jesus is. He is the Lord and Saviour. This certainty is because the Holy Spirit does an eternal work in our souls. He puts into us the knowledge of Jesus and nothing can separate us from this knowledge. This is why believers will die for their faith. It is because Jesus is recognised and our minds are settled forever about him. How precious to be taught by the Spirit of God. What a privilege to be brought to a knowledge of Jesus.

Jesus came to his disciples in a progressive way. This was now the third time Jesus showed himself to his disciples after he was raised from the dead (v.14). The Lord works progressively. His resurrection appearances were spread out over 40 days. In the Bible the Lord worked progressively. In the Old Testament he revealed himself to the Jews. Then, through the Jews, in the New Testament he revealed himself to humankind. God progressively revealed Jesus to humankind.

The disciples progressively came to understand that Jesus was the Messiah, the eternal Son of God who came to save sinners. The Lord chose to reveal himself progressively to his followers. We should be grateful for this for who among us could handle the full revelation of God. Our minds are limited and can grasp only so much at a time. Thanks be to God he knows us and deals with us very graciously.

Finally, there is no reason why you cannot be clear this morning about who Jesus is. He has revealed himself through his word and with that revelation you can believe in him. You can be clear about who he is. Believe on him today. Like the disciples you will not be mistaken that he is your Lord and Saviour.

(Summary of sermon delivered by Pastor David Yan)