From Empty Nets to Grace Abounding - July 28th, 2024

Introduction

Luke 5:1–4 AV 1873

1 And it came to pass that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. 4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

Illustration: A Fisherman

During the first and second centuries, the symbol of Christianity was the fish. A present-day Christian decided that a fishhook would be the proper emblem for a soul-winner to use for winning people to Christ, so he had a little golden fishhook made to be worn on the lapel of his coat. When people asked him what it meant, he told them that he was a fisher of men. A little newsboy from whom he bought a paper one day said to him, “Mister, do you belong to a fishing club?” “Yes, I do,” said the Christian, “and I think fishing is pretty nice, don’t you?” “Oh yes,” the little fellow replied, “Do you ever catch any big ones?” “I have caught 250 pounders,” replied the man. “Go on!” said the lad incredulously. “Yes,” said the Christian, “I have caught a 250-pound fish.” “Those sure are big,” marveled the boy. Then leaning over, the Christian said, “Sonny, to tell you the truth, I would rather catch small fish than big ones.” He exclaimed. “No!” “Yes, about your size.” The little boy looked down at himself as if he were thinking, “I am not so small.” Then the Christian told him that he was a fisher of men, seeking to win souls, and that if he would believe on the Lord Jesus Christ he would be saved. The newsboy took him at his word and came to Christ. Here was a fisherman for Christ who used a gold fishhook on his lapel to catch souls with. You may have some other kind of hook. It makes no difference as long as you catch fish.

[AMG Bible Illustrations, Bible Illustrations Series (Chattanooga: AMG Publishers, 2000).]

Luke gives us an account that captures the miraculous power and divine calling of our Lord Jesus Christ, found in his Gospel, chapter 5, verses 1 through 11. This narrative is not just a historical account; it is part of Luke’s larger biographical sermon to Theophilus that paints him, and us today, a vivid illustration of how Jesus takes everyday lives, and transforms the ordinary into extraordinary missions.

Picture the scene: the serene waters of the Lake of Gennesaret, known to many of us as the Sea of Galilee, stretch out before us. The early morning mist begins to lift, revealing two fishing boats anchored by the shore, their owners engaged in the routine task of washing their nets after a long and fruitless night at sea. These men, seasoned fishermen like Simon Peter, James, and John, knew these waters well, yet their expertise had yielded nothing this night.

In this tranquil yet bustling scene, Jesus appears. He is surrounded by a crowd, eager to hear the word of God, pressing upon Him, hungry to hear from God. Jesus, seeing the two boats, steps into Simon's boat and asks him to push out a little from the land. From this makeshift pulpit on the water, Jesus teaches the people. His words are like the gentle waves, reaching every ear, filling every heart.

After He finishes speaking, Jesus turns to Simon with a command that defies the seasoned fisherman's logic: "Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught." Simon, weary from a night of unproductive labor, expresses his doubts but chooses to obey, saying, "Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net."

What follows is a scene of astonishment. Peter’s net, once empty, now overflows with fish, so abundant that it begins to break. He calls for his partners in the other boat, and both boats are soon filled to the point of sinking. In this miraculous moment, Simon Peter falls to his knees, overwhelmed by the power and presence of Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of Adam, which was the Son of God, filled with the Holy Spirit, standing before him. Peter cannot but help fall at the knees of the Christ, the Son of David, confessing his own sinfulness and unworthiness.

Yet, Jesus responds not with rebuke, but with a call to a higher purpose: "Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men." Simon Peter, along with James and John, forsakes all to follow Jesus, embarking on a journey that would change the course of their lives and the world.

What lessons from this passage are there for you and me today? Will we see and acknowledge the authority of Jesus? Will we ignore the call to discipleship? Would we miss out on the transformative power of obedience in faith to His word? If our hearts are prepared to be moved, challenged, and inspired by the divine encounter that awaits us in Luke 5:1-11, then these words will not fall on fallow, shallow, thorny, ground, but on good, tender, and fertile heart soil, and we will know the joy of the Lord, just as He would have us to know.

Page One: Trouble in the Biblical Text

I. A Painful Awareness - Shortfall (Luke 5:1-8)

A. Human Effort & Insufficiency (v. 5)

Nothing shows us the point of human limitation more, the insufficiency of human effort in the presence of the omnipotent, than here, where Luke shows to us these seasoned fishermen, Simon Peter, James, and John, returning from a night of fruitless labor. These men were experts in their trade, familiar with the best fishing spots and techniques. Yet, despite their expertise and hard work, they caught nothing.

The trouble here is multifaceted. First, there is the physical exhaustion and disappointment of the fishermen who toiled all night without any results. This frustration is palpable as they wash their nets, likely preparing for another attempt later or simply ending a disappointing work session. Their empty nets symbolize not just a failed night of fishing but also the limitations of human effort and understanding.

Second, the trouble is spiritual and emotional. Simon Peter’s response to Jesus’ command to "launch out into the deep" and let down the nets for a catch is tinged with skepticism and weariness. "Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net" (Luke 5:5, KJV).

Luke 5:5 AV 1873

5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

Peter’s initial hesitation reflects a deeper struggle of faith and trust. He acknowledges Jesus as "Master," recognizing His authority, yet his words reveal a tension between his experience and Jesus’ instruction. This tension highlights the human tendency to rely on personal experience and expertise, often overshadowing faith in divine guidance.

John 21:3 AV 1873

3 Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.

B. Overwhelming Divine Provision (vv. 6-7)

Luke 5:6–7 AV 1873

6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. 7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

The miracle of the great catch of fish that follows exposes another layer of trouble. When the net began to break under the weight of the miraculous catch, and the boats start to sink, the abundance becomes overwhelming. This sudden shift from nothing to too much demonstrates how human resources and preparations can be utterly inadequate when God intervenes. How grossly inadequate are all our best human plans and efforts without God’s blessing and direction.

Malachi 3:10 AV 1873

10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be meat in mine house, And prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, If I will not open you the windows of heaven, And pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

C. Recognition of Sinfulness and Unworthiness (v. 8).

Simon Peter’s reaction to the miraculous catch further underscores the spiritual trouble in the text. Falling to his knees, he cries out, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord" (Luke 5:8, KJV).

Luke 5:8 AV 1873

8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

This moment of self-awareness and confession is something we should not miss, or read over lightly. Peter recognizes his unworthiness and sinfulness in the presence of Jesus’ holiness and power. The miracle not only provides an abundance of fish but also a revelation of Peter’s spiritual state. His plea for Jesus to depart reflects a deep sense of inadequacy and fear, common responses when confronted with the divine.

Isaiah 6:5 AV 1873

5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.

Our shortfall becomes magnified in the overwhelming nature of God’s presence and provision, and this recognition of our own personal sinfulness—sets the stage for transformation by the power of Jesus’ call, undergirded by the unction of the Holy Spirit. It exposes, painfully, the gap between human ability and divine capability, a gap that can only be bridged by faith and obedience to Jesus’ Word.

D. The Tension Between Experience and Faith (v. 4)

Luke 5:4 AV 1873

4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

How do Peter’s troubles here resonate in our own lives? How often do we rely on our expertise and experience, only to find ourselves exhausted and empty-handed? How do we react when faced with the overwhelming nature of God’s blessings and the realization of our own unworthiness?

Proverbs 3:5–6 AV 1873

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.

This is the way we must move forward, seeking the grace and strength to respond to Jesus’ call with faith and humility.

Page Two: Trouble in Our World

II. A Persistant Problem - Sin

Simon Peter and his partners here in Luke 5:1-11 knew very well the challenges we face today. The insufficiency of human effort, the overwhelming nature of divine provision that should humble us, and like Peter, bring us to the knees of Jesus, in recognition of our own personal sinfulness are pressure points that remain just as relevant now as they were then.

A. Human Effort and Modern Challenges: Human effort alone is often insufficient to guarantee success.

Contemporary Example: Professional setbacks despite hard work.

First, consider the insufficiency of human effort. In our modern world, we often pride ourselves on our expertise, knowledge, and hard work. We invest time, energy, and resources into our careers, relationships, and personal goals, believing that our efforts will yield the desired results. Yet, how many times do we find ourselves in Peter’s position, toiling all night and catching nothing? Despite our best efforts, we encounter failure, disappointment, and frustration. This can happen in various aspects of life—our professional endeavors, where promotions and successes elude us; our personal relationships, where despite our efforts, we face misunderstandings and conflicts; and even in our spiritual journeys, where we strive to grow closer to God but feel distant and dry.

Illustration: A professional who works tirelessly but faces layoffs or business failures.

Ecclesiastes 1:14 AV 1873

14 I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit.

B. Societal Pressure and Fear of Failure: leads to a deep sense of inadequacy and worthlessness.

Contemporary Example: Cultural obsession with success and fear of failure.

This trouble is exacerbated by the societal pressure to succeed and the stigma associated with failure. We live in a culture that celebrates success and often overlooks or even condemns failure. This can lead to a deep sense of inadequacy and worthlessness when our efforts do not bear fruit. Like the fishermen washing their empty nets, we too might feel like giving up, questioning our worth and abilities.

Illustration: Social media highlighting successes, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

Psalm 127:1 AV 1873

1 Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: Except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.

C. Overwhelming Blessings and New Challenges: God's blessings can be overwhelming and require wise stewardship.

Contemporary Example: Sudden success or wealth bringing unforeseen complications.

Second, the overwhelming nature of divine provision can also be troubling. When God’s blessings come in abundance, they can be more than we are prepared to handle. The miraculous catch of fish that broke the nets and nearly sank the boats symbolizes moments in our lives when God’s provision surpasses our expectations and capacities. While we might pray for God’s blessings, when they arrive, they can bring their own set of challenges. This can be seen in the sudden success of a business that outgrows its infrastructure, a ministry that expands rapidly without enough leaders to manage it, or a financial windfall that brings unexpected complications. These blessings, while good, can create stress and require us to stretch beyond our comfort zones.

Illustration: A startup company experiencing rapid growth without infrastructure to support it.

Proverbs 10:22 AV 1873

22 The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, And he addeth no sorrow with it.

D. Recognition of Sinfulness and Guilt: Acknowledging our sinfulness is essential for spiritual growth.

Contemporary Example: Awareness of personal failings in light of God’s holiness.

Lastly, the recognition of personal sinfulness and unworthiness is a profound trouble that many of us face. In the presence of God’s holiness, like Peter, we become acutely aware of our shortcomings and sins. This can manifest as feelings of guilt, shame, and fear of inadequacy. When we encounter God’s power and grace, it often highlights our own failures and moral weaknesses. In a world that often promotes self-sufficiency and self-righteousness, acknowledging our sinfulness can be a humbling and uncomfortable experience.

Illustration: Personal moments of spiritual awakening leading to repentance.

Romans 3:23 AV 1873

23 for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

E. The Tension Between Faith and Experience: Faith often requires stepping beyond our comfort zones and trusting in God’s higher ways.

These troubles—human insufficiency, overwhelming blessings, and personal sinfulness—are pervasive in our lives. They challenge our faith, test our resilience, and reveal our need for divine intervention. Yet, these very troubles also prepare us for transformation and divine calling. They remind us of our dependency on God and the need to trust in His guidance and provision.

Contemporary Example: Trusting God’s guidance over personal logic and experience.

As we grapple with these troubles, let us remember that they are not the end of the story.

Illustration: Freedom Restricted Becomes Power

No horse gets anyone anywhere until he’s harnessed, no steam or gas drives anything until it is confined, no Niagara ever turns anything into light or power until it is tunneled, no life ever does great things it is until focused, dedicated, and disciplined.

[AMG Bible Illustrations, Bible Illustrations Series (Chattanooga: AMG Publishers, 2000).]

Just as Jesus transformed the situation for the fishermen, He can transform our troubles into opportunities for growth, faith, and mission. Our insufficiency becomes the stage for His sufficiency, our overwhelming blessings become opportunities for greater service, and our recognition of sinfulness becomes the pathway to grace and redemption.

Illustration: Making life decisions based on faith rather than solely on personal or professional advice.

Isaiah 55:8–9 AV 1873

8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are my ways higher than your ways, And my thoughts than your thoughts.

Let us now prepare our hearts to see how Jesus addresses these troubles with His grace and call, leading us from fear to faith, from inadequacy to abundance, and from sinfulness to service in His kingdom.

Page Three: Grace in the Biblical Text

III. A Persuaded Change of Heart (Luke 5:5-11)

In the midst of the troubles outlined in Luke 5:1-11—human insufficiency, overwhelming divine provision, and the recognition of personal sinfulness—we witness the transformative grace of Jesus Christ. This grace is not just a remedy to the troubles but a powerful force that redefines the lives of those who encounter it.

A. Obedience Despite Skepticism (v. 5)

Luke 5:5 AV 1873

5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

The narrative begins with the fishermen’s fruitless toil, a symbol of human limitation and effort. Jesus steps into this scene with a command that challenges the fishermen’s experience and expertise: “Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught” (Luke 5:4, KJV). Despite his skepticism, Simon Peter obeys, illustrating a key aspect of grace: obedience to God’s word even when it contradicts human understanding. This act of faith, albeit hesitant, sets the stage for the miraculous.

John 2:5 AV 1873

5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

Illustration: SHOEMAKER’S CALLING

Topics: Calling; Discipline; Evangelism; Goals; Missions; Passion; Self-discipline

References: Psalm 37:4; 1 Corinthians 1:26–31

He was just a shoemaker, after all, and an average one at that. But in the evenings, after work, he studied Greek, Hebrew, and a variety of modern languages. He devoured Captain Cook’s Voyages to expand his horizons, which, because of his poverty, kept him bound to a small, forgotten English village. Some people said his time would have been better spent getting a second job to support his growing family.

But the young man’s passion wasn’t a curious, self-satisfying hobby. Early in life he had become concerned about the millions of unbelievers outside of Europe, and he was trying to figure out what could be done to bring them the gospel.

With God’s help, he slowly figured it out. He ended up going to India to serve as the first Protestant missionary in the modern era. His passion inspired a generation of men and women, such as Adoniram Judson, Hudson Taylor, and David Livingstone, to take up the cause of missions.

Because one impoverished shoemaker named William Carey followed his God-given passion, large parts of the world that had little or no access to the gospel have large populations of people today who confess Christ as Lord.

—Ruth Tucker, From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya (Zondervan, 1983)

[Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof, 1001 Illustrations That Connect (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 2008), 275.]

B. Miraculous Provision (vv. 6-7)

Luke 5:6–7 AV 1873

6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. 7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

The miracle of the great catch of fish is a profound display of Jesus’ grace. It is a provision that surpasses all expectations, transforming an empty night of labor into an overwhelming abundance. This miracle underscores that God’s blessings are not limited by human constraints or efforts. When the net begins to break and the boats start to sink, the fishermen experience a divine provision that is both abundant and overwhelming. This overwhelming catch symbolizes the superabundance of God’s grace, which exceeds all that we can ask or think.

Ephesians 3:20 AV 1873

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

In this moment of miraculous provision, Peter is confronted with his own unworthiness. He falls at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord” (Luke 5:8, KJV).

Luke 5:8 AV 1873

8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

C. Reassurance and Calling (v. 10)

Here, the grace of Jesus shines brightly. Instead of departing, Jesus responds with reassurance and a call: “Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men” (Luke 5:10, KJV).

Luke 5:10 AV 1873

10 and so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

Jesus’ response to Peter’s confession of sin is not rejection but acceptance and transformation. This is the essence of grace—God’s unmerited favor that not only forgives but also calls us to a higher purpose.

Jesus’ words to Peter, “Fear not,” are a powerful assurance that grace overcomes fear. Peter’s fear of inadequacy and sinfulness is met with the comforting and empowering presence of Jesus. This reassurance is crucial, for it is only through grace that Peter can transition from a place of fear to a place of mission. The call to “catch men” signifies a new identity and purpose. It is a transformative call that redefines Peter’s life and mission. No longer is he merely a fisherman; he is now a fisher of men, tasked with a divine mission that will have eternal significance.

Isaiah 6:7–8 AV 1873

7 and he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged. 8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then I said, Here am I; send me.

D. Total Commitment to Follow Jesus (v. 11)

Luke 5:11 AV 1873

11 And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

The disciples’ response to this grace is immediate and total. They forsake all and follow Jesus. This radical commitment is a testament to the transformative power of grace. It is grace that enables them to leave behind their old lives and embrace a new, divinely-appointed mission. Their willingness to forsake all underscores the totality of the transformation that grace brings.

QUOTE - CHALLENGE

“Where are the apostolic men who convert nations? Where are the heroes and martyr spirits of the better days? Have we not fallen upon an age of little men, who little dare and little do?” 1952.151 ~ Spurgeon

[Charles Haddon Spurgeon, Exploring the Mind and Heart of the Prince of Preachers: Five-Thousand Illustrations Selected from the Works of Charles Haddon Spurgeon (Oswego, IL: Fox River Press, 2005), 508.]

Matthew 4:19–20 AV 1873

19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. 20 And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.

E. Transformative Grace (v. 8)

Luke 5:8 AV 1873

8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

In summary, the grace of Jesus on those who trust and obey His Word is a grace that challenges our finite human understanding, but as we trust Him, we find that He provides abundantly, we gain reassurance from His voice amidst fear, we find that He forgives our sin, and once we have been cleansed, He then calls us to a higher purpose. This is the grace that transforms ordinary fishermen into apostles who will carry the message of the Kingdom to the ends of the earth. It is a grace that redefines identity and mission, turning human insufficiency into divine sufficiency, and fear into faith.

Romans 5:20–21 AV 1873

20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

As we reflect on this passage, let us recognize the same grace at work in our lives. It is a grace that meets us in our insufficiency, overwhelms us with divine provision, reassures us in our fears, forgives our sins, and calls us to a higher purpose. This is the transformative power of Jesus’ grace, a grace that is available to each of us today.

Page Four: Grace in Our World

IV. The Purpose of Providence - A Higher Calling

As we bring our exploration of Luke 5:1-11 to a close, let us reflect on how the grace we have seen in the biblical text manifests in our world today. The same transformative power that turned weary fishermen into bold apostles is at work in our lives, calling us to a higher purpose and equipping us for divine missions.

A. His Grace Meets Our Insufficiency (2 Cor. 12:9)

Firstly, the grace that meets our insufficiency is a powerful reminder that our efforts, no matter how diligent, are limited without God’s intervention. In our personal and professional lives, we often face moments of fruitlessness despite our best efforts. This is especially true in times of economic uncertainty, personal challenges, and spiritual dryness. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that God’s grace intervenes. Just as Jesus provided an overwhelming catch of fish, He provides abundantly for our needs. His provision may come in the form of unexpected opportunities, new relationships, or spiritual renewal. When we obey His word, even when it seems counterintuitive, we open ourselves to experiencing His miraculous provision.

2 Corinthians 12:9 AV 1873

9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

B. Abundant Provision Requires Stewardship (1 Pet. 4:10)

Secondly, the grace that overwhelms us with divine provision reminds us to be prepared for God’s blessings, which often exceed our expectations. These blessings, while abundant, can bring their own challenges. Just as the fishermen had to call for help to manage their catch, we too must be ready to share God’s blessings and work together within our communities. This can mean offering support to those in need, sharing our resources, and working collaboratively to advance God’s kingdom. It also involves being stewards of God’s blessings, using them wisely and for His glory.

1 Peter 4:10 AV 1873

10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

C. Reassurance Amidst Fear (Phil. 4:6-7)

The grace that reassures us amidst fear is a profound comfort. In our world, fear and anxiety are prevalent—fear of failure, fear of the unknown, and fear of inadequacy. Jesus’ words to Peter, “Fear not,” resonate with us today. God’s grace provides the courage to face our fears, knowing that we are not alone. His presence and assurance empower us to move forward in faith, trusting that He will equip us for the tasks He calls us to. This reassurance is vital for our spiritual and emotional well-being, enabling us to live boldly and confidently in our faith.

Philippians 4:6–7 AV 1873

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

D. Forgiveness and Transformation (Eph. 2:8-10)

The grace that forgives our sins is central to our Christian faith. Like Peter, we are all acutely aware of our shortcomings and unworthiness in the presence of a holy God. Yet, Jesus’ response to Peter’s confession was not rejection but acceptance and commissioning. This grace invites us to come as we are, confess our sins, and receive forgiveness. It is a grace that transforms guilt into gratitude and sinfulness into service. It reminds us that our past does not define us; rather, our identity and mission are found in Christ.

Ephesians 2:8–10 AV 1873

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

E. Calling and Mission (Matt. 28:19-20)

Finally, the grace that calls us to a higher purpose is a call to mission and discipleship. Jesus transformed the fishermen’s vocation into a spiritual mission to “catch men.” Today, He calls each of us to participate in His redemptive work, spreading the Gospel and making disciples. This call to mission can take many forms—evangelism, teaching, serving the needy, and living out our faith in our daily interactions. It challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones, to forsake all that hinders us, and to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.

Matthew 28:19–20 AV 1873

19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Illustration: Children and Evangelism

Some would gather money

Along the path of life;

Some would gather roses

And rest from worldly strife.

But I would gather children

From among the thorns of sin;

I would seek a golden curl

And a freckled, toothless grin.

For money cannot enter

In that land of endless day,

And the roses that are gathered

Soon will wilt along the way.

But, oh, the laughing children,

As I cross the Sunset Sea;

As the gates swing wide to Heaven,

I can take them in with me!

~Billie Crawford117

[Michael P. Green, 1500 Illustrations for Biblical Preaching (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2000), 44–45.]

Conclusion

As we conclude, let us be encouraged by the grace we have received. It is a grace that meets us in our insufficiency, overwhelms us with divine provision, reassures us in our fears, forgives our sins, and calls us to a higher purpose. This grace transforms us, empowering us to live out our faith with boldness and joy.

Let us pray for the strength to respond to Jesus’ call with the same willingness and commitment as the first disciples. May we forsake all that holds us back and follow Him, trusting in His grace to guide and sustain us. And may we, like Peter, James, and John, become fishers of men, allowing the Holy Spirit to use us while drawing others into the abundant and transformative grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Footsteps of Jesus (Hymnary.org)

1 Sweetly, Lord, have we heard Thee calling, "Come, follow Me!" And we see where Thy footprints falling, lead us to Thee.

Refrain: Footprints of Jesus that make the pathway glow; we will follow the steps of Jesus where’er they go.

2 Though they lead o’er the cold dark mountains, seeking His sheep, or along by Siloam’s fountains, helping the weak. [Refrain]

3 If they lead through the temple holy, preaching the Word, or in homes of the poor and lowly, serving the Lord. [Refrain]

4 Then at last, when on high He sees us, our journey done, we will rest where the steps of Jesus end at His throne. [Refrain]