Life of Jesus: calling of Simon Peter
Speaker: Colin Boyd
Notes
Basic (only!) Scripture: Luke 5 v 1-11, the calling of Simon Peter. Main
theme: Jesus takes you on as you are and opens up the possibilities of what
you could become.
v 1: people came to Jesus with different motives, and we must expect the
same. Be prepared for all sorts of person.
v 2-3: Jesus took his opportunity and preached from a boat. We need to
discern when we are being invited to tell people about Jesus and not force
ourselves and our opinions on them artificially.
v 4-5: Jesus made his offer to Simon Peter "where he was" - as
a professional fisherman. Peter responded with respect and obedience and
trust, accepting that he did not know everything, even about fishing. Jesus
took on Simon with his strong points and his weak points. In his time with
Jesus Simon had to lose some weaknesses, build on some strengths and even have
former weaknesses turned into assets. (e.g. His tendency to speak up instantly
was at times embarrassing, but by the time of Pentecost it became a major
weapon of the new church.)
vs 6,7,8: Simon got a surprise at the results of his obedience. It is a
'fair bet' that we will get more than we bargained for when we trust Jesus to
take us on. Simon was overawed and blurted out a confession of his own
unworthiness, but it did not stop Jesus from accepting him. This has often
been the case with us as we falter around the idea of 'Why me?'
Finally Simon's friends joined him and they all followed Jesus. For us we
often have wondered 'What will my friends think?' but that is their business
and we cannot predict it. Like Simon's friends, they may even join you. They
were all reassured not to be afraid.
The moment of decision must be based on trust, but you don't know what
the adventure will bring.
Application
Can you recall any different motives for people who approached you about
wanting to know about Jesus? What were their reservations? Do you find that
many people believe that their own good works should lead to salvation? Is the
idea of "sin" a stumbling block?
Did you get any surprises when you started to follow Jesus?
Did any of your friends and family decide eventually to come with you?
How long did that take?
James and John went along with Simon Peter. The children on Sunday named
some "fish" they would like to see hauled into the Christian boat. Can you
pray for two friends who you would like to see put their trust in Jesus?
Posted: 18 July 2010
