Fisherman

Teaching from a new perspective

The scripture begins with, “on one occasion”. What does this tell you? It tells me that there were most likely other occasions. What sets this occasion apart from other occasions? Jesus does something unexpected, he gets into an empty boat (Simon’s) and he sets out a little from the shore. Jesus taught from the boat and we understand this because he needed some space to teach. But what he does after the teaching is what got Simon’s attention.

(NRSV)

4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” Jesus now puts His teaching to the point. When we write sermons we generally try to get to a point. But sometimes people do not get our point. Jesus was teaching, most likely with authority, but what got the attention of the fisherman was what happened when they were told to put their nets into the water.

(NRSV)

6 When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. Why do you suppose Jesus chose to teach with this example? Perhaps because it was something that these people respected. If Jesus were here today teaching perhaps He would use something you are familiar with, “what might that be?” Increased harvest of soybeans, seats filled in the church, ? whatever it is Jesus is wanting you to see that He is Lord. Peter saw this when Jesus asked him to throw out his nets. In our humanness we see the request as foolish. But when we follow through with the request, Jesus fills our nets.

Notice what Peter does next, (NRSV)

8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” We rarely get astonished by the gospel, we can even treat it as though it doesn’t exist or move us at all, but when it is our lives that Jesus touches; we can truly be moved.

What could Jesus do this morning, for you, that would move you to see him? Peter was able to stand in the presence of a Holy Lord Jesus until he realized that it really was God, and then he fell to his face.

(NRSV)

10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” Jesus wants you to realize that He is here, that He is present. Jesus wants disciples who want to serve and follow Him.

Will you follow Him? Will you fall on your face before the King of Kings?