When Restored by the Lord

The sermon opens with the setting of the story on the shores of the Sea of Tiberias early one morning, where Jesus appeared to seven disciples, including Peter. Although Jesus appeared to all seven disciples, the main dialogue was between Jesus and Peter, because Peter had committed the most serious sin—not only fleeing but denying Jesus three times. The sermon notes that despite Peter's boast that he would never stumble even if others did, when circumstances changed and pressure mounted, Peter's true weakness was revealed, and he denied Jesus three times.

The second section develops the concept of genuine repentance. The pastor explains that repentance is not merely feeling regretful, but acknowledging that even if one has been treated unjustly, one must take responsibility for one's own words, actions, and wrong attitudes. Repentance requires stopping the practice of blaming circumstances, environment, family, or society. The pastor distinguishes two kinds of sorrow: sorrow according to God's will leads to repentance, regret, and change; worldly sorrow leads to death because it drives people away from God, from the church, and from Scripture. True sorrow is expressed through Peter when he felt shame for having grieved the One who had loved and redeemed him, rather than merely fearing punishment.

The third section highlights the difference between forgiveness and restoration. Forgiveness can be given without the offender asking for it, but restoration of relationship, family bonds, position, and responsibility can only occur when the offender comes to confess and ask for forgiveness. In the story, Jesus asks Peter three times: "Do you love me?" to remind him clearly of the sin he committed. This question emphasizes that Peter should not compare his love with that of the other disciples, but only honestly affirm that he loves Jesus. When Peter answers three times that "You know that I love you," he no longer compares himself with anyone, and Jesus restores him by entrusting him with the responsibility of tending His sheep.

The fourth section applies the message to the congregation's daily life by emphasizing that the new opportunity from God is an opportunity to reaffirm faith in God without comparing oneself with others, and requires faith to accept responsibility for service even when the outcome is uncertain. The pastor warns against comparing oneself with other believers, for Jesus told Peter: "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." God's love is the primary motivation driving us to obey His word, serve Him, and dedicate our lives. The sermon concludes by recalling the hymn "Do You Love Me?" by composer Tran Thuong Tri, serving as a tool for the congregation to make Jesus's question to Peter their own sincere prayer.