The Life and Ministry of Jesus
For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him. Luke 5:9–11
Simon Peter did catch men. Remember how well he did on the Day of Pentecost—the Lord’s answer to Peter is certainly significant. Three thousand souls came to Christ after his first sermon! Peter was fishing according to God’s instructions. There is another lesson here. Do you know there is another fisherman? Do you know that Satan also is a fisherman?
Paul tells us that in 2 Timothy 2:26, which says, “And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” Satan has his hook out in the water too. God is fishing for your soul, and Satan also is fishing for your soul with a hook baited with the things of the world. You might say God’s hook is a cross. The son of God died upon that cross for you. This is God’s message for you. 1
Personal Encouragement
Does His love for you satisfy your soul, or are you still looking to the world for fulfillment?
Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven. Proverbs 23:5
Jesus caught you and bought you from the rot of this world for His glory.
A Prayer
Lord, make me Your fisherman.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Gospels (Luke) (electronic ed., Vol. 37). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
