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