The Calling of the First Disciples

In one of the Bible readings happening at New Life right now, we are reading through the Gospel of Luke. Luke is one of the 4 Gospels where we read about the life of Christ from 4 different vantage points. In a reading this past week, we find the story of Jesus calling His first disciples to follow Him in Luke 5:1-11.

Luke’s account is not only an encouraging story of hope for us all, it also offers profound insights for believers today. For instance, here are some things believers today can learn from this pivotal moment in Christian history.

Jesus Meets Us in Our Ordinary Lives

When Jesus saw and approached Peter, James, and John, they were going about their daily work as fishermen. This reminds us that God doesn’t wait for us to be in a special spiritual state or mature believers. He meets us right where we are, in the midst of our ordinary lives. Whether you’re at work, home, or school, God can speak to you and use you for His purposes.

Obedience Precedes Understanding

When Jesus told Simon to put out into deep water and let down his nets, Peter was skeptical. After all, they had fished all night without success. Yet, he obeyed, saying, “But because you say so, I will let down the nets” (Luke 5:5). This obedience led to a miraculous catch of fish. Often, God’s call doesn’t make sense to our human logic. We’re called to obey first, and understanding often follows later.

Encountering God Reveals Our True Selves

Upon witnessing the miracle, Peter fell at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” (Luke 5:8). Peter had a genuine encounter with God’s holiness often brings a deep awareness of our own sinfulness. This self-realization is not meant to push us away from God, but to draw us closer to His grace and transforming power.

God’s Call Overshadows Our Shortcomings

Despite Peter’s confession of his unworthiness, Jesus didn’t reject him. Instead, He said, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people” (Luke 5:10). God’s call on our lives is not based on our qualifications or worthiness, but on His grace and purpose for us. Our inadequacies and shortcomings are opportunities for God’s power to be displayed.

God Equips Those He Calls

Jesus didn’t call expert evangelists; He called fishermen. He promised to make them “fishers of men,” using their existing skills in a new context. God doesn’t always call the equipped; He equips those He calls. Whatever your background or skills, God can use and transform them for His kingdom purposes.

Conclusion