The Power of Three: Resurrection, Renewal and Responsibility John 21:1-19
Sermon Resources
Sermon Summary
Title: The Power of Three: Resurrection, Renewal, and Responsibility
This sermon explores the significance of the number three in biblical and cultural contexts, focusing on Jesus' third resurrection appearance to his disciples. It emphasizes the themes of renewal, forgiveness, and the call to discipleship. The sermon draws parallels between Jesus' miraculous catch of fish, his restoration of Peter, and the broader implications for believers to "feed my sheep" in their own lives and ministries.
Key Points:
The significance of the number three in Jewish tradition and cultural references
Jesus' third appearance to the disciples after his resurrection
The miraculous catch of fish as a reminder of Jesus' earlier miracle and call to discipleship
Peter's threefold affirmation of love for Jesus, mirroring his earlier threefold denial
Jesus' charge to Peter (and all believers) to feed and care for his flock
The challenges and potential dangers of following Christ's call
The importance of being motivated by agape love in serving others
The role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to fulfill their calling
5-Day Personal Devotional
Day 1: The Power of God's Love Reading: John 21:15-19
Devotional: Jesus' conversation with Peter on the shore demonstrates the depth and persistence of God's love. Despite Peter's earlier denials, Jesus offers him forgiveness and a renewed purpose. Reflect on times when you've felt unworthy of God's love. How does Jesus' interaction with Peter reassure you of God's unfailing love and grace? Consider how you can extend this same love and forgiveness to others in your life who may have disappointed you.
Day 2: Recognizing the Risen Christ Reading: Luke 24:13-35
Devotional: The disciples on the road to Emmaus didn't immediately recognize Jesus, much like the disciples fishing on the Sea of Tiberias. Sometimes Christ appears in our lives in unexpected ways. Think about moments when you've experienced God's presence unexpectedly. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of Christ's presence in your daily life? Practice mindfulness today, looking for signs of God's work in the ordinary moments of your day.
Day 3: Answering the Call to Serve Reading: Matthew 4:18-22
Devotional: Jesus calls his disciples to become "fishers of people," echoing his later command to Peter to "feed my sheep." This call to serve extends to all believers. What unique gifts and talents has God given you? How might you use these to serve others and share God's love? Consider one concrete way you can reach out to someone in need this week, embodying Christ's love in action.
Day 4: Faith in the Face of Doubt Reading: John 20:24-29
Devotional: Thomas's doubt and subsequent belief remind us that faith often coexists with questions. Jesus meets Thomas in his uncertainty, offering the proof he needs. What doubts or questions do you struggle with in your faith journey? Bring these honestly before God in prayer. Remember that seeking understanding can deepen your faith. How can you support others who may be wrestling with doubt?
Day 5: Courage in Following Christ Reading: Acts 5:27-32
Devotional: The apostles faced persecution for their faith, yet they remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ. While we may not face the same dangers, following Jesus still requires courage in our daily lives. Reflect on areas where you find it challenging to live out your faith. Ask the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance to stand firm in your convictions. How can you encourage and support fellow believers in their walk with Christ?
Small Group Guide
Key Takeaways:
The number three in Jewish tradition represents wholeness and completeness.
Jesus' third appearance to the disciples after his resurrection occurred in a familiar setting, bringing the extraordinary into the ordinary.
Jesus reinstated Peter by asking him three times if he loved Him, countering Peter's three denials.
Jesus calls us to "feed His sheep," which requires strength, courage, and love.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill Jesus' call in our lives.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions several examples of "threes" in our culture and faith. Can you think of other significant "threes" in your life or in Scripture?
How do you relate to the disciples' experience of seeing Jesus in an ordinary setting after the extraordinary event of the resurrection? Have you ever experienced God's presence in unexpected, everyday moments?
Reflect on Peter's reinstatement. How does Jesus' forgiveness and recommissioning of Peter speak to you about God's grace and second chances?
The sermon distinguishes between different Greek words for love (agape, phileo). How do you understand the difference between these types of love, and how does it apply to your relationship with Jesus?
Jesus tells Peter to "feed my lambs," "take care of my sheep," and "feed my sheep." What do you think these instructions mean for us today? How can we apply them in our daily lives?
The sermon mentions that "tending Jesus' flock can be a dangerous gig." How do you balance the call to serve with the potential risks or challenges that may come with it?
How does the Holy Spirit empower you to follow Jesus' call in your life? Can you share an experience where you felt the Spirit's guidance or strength?
Practical Applications:
This week, intentionally look for ways to "feed Jesus' sheep" in your community. This could be through acts of service, encouragement, or sharing your faith.
Reflect on areas in your life where you may need "reinstatement" or forgiveness. Spend time in prayer, accepting God's grace and recommitment to His call.
Practice being attentive to God's presence in ordinary moments. Keep a journal of these encounters and share them with the group next time.
Consider how you can deepen your love for Jesus from "phileo" (affection) to "agape" (sacrificial love). What practical steps can you take?
Pray for the Holy Spirit's empowerment in areas where you feel weak or hesitant in following Jesus' call.
Closing Prayer:
End your session by praying for each other, asking God to help you apply the lessons learned and to empower you through the Holy Spirit to feed His sheep in your daily lives.
