Luke 5:2
He saw two boats at the edge of the lake. The fishermen had left them and were washing their nets.
He saw
The phrase "He saw" indicates Jesus' perceptive nature and His ability to notice the details of everyday life. In the Greek, the word used is "εἶδεν" (eiden), which implies not just a casual glance but a deeper, discerning observation. This reflects Jesus' divine insight and His intentionality in engaging with the world around Him. It reminds us that nothing escapes His notice, and He is always aware of our circumstances.

two boats
The mention of "two boats" is significant in the context of the narrative. Boats were essential for the livelihood of fishermen in Galilee, and their presence indicates a scene of daily labor and routine. The Greek word for boats, "πλοῖα" (ploia), suggests vessels used for fishing, which were common in the region. This detail sets the stage for the miraculous event that follows, highlighting the ordinary means through which Jesus often works extraordinary miracles.

at the edge of the lake
"At the edge of the lake" situates the scene geographically and symbolically. The lake referred to is the Sea of Galilee, a central location in Jesus' ministry. The edge, or "παρά" (para) in Greek, suggests a boundary or transition point, symbolizing the threshold between the mundane and the miraculous. It is at these edges of our lives that Jesus often meets us, ready to transform our ordinary experiences into divine encounters.

The fishermen had left them
This phrase indicates a pause in the fishermen's work, as they had "left" (ἀποβάντες, apobantes) their boats. This action suggests a temporary cessation of their labor, possibly due to the completion of a night's work or preparation for the next. It reflects the human need for rest and the rhythm of work and pause. Spiritually, it can symbolize moments when we step away from our efforts, creating space for Jesus to intervene and redirect our paths.

and were washing their nets
"Washing their nets" describes a routine task necessary for maintaining the tools of their trade. The Greek word "ἀποπλύνοντες" (apoplunontes) implies a thorough cleansing, essential for effective fishing. This act of preparation and care for their equipment underscores the diligence and responsibility of the fishermen. In a spiritual sense, it can represent the need for purification and readiness in our own lives, as we prepare to receive and respond to God's call. The act of washing signifies cleansing and renewal, themes central to the Gospel message.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus
The central figure in the Gospel of Luke, who is about to call His first disciples.

2. Fishermen
These are the individuals who were working by the lake, specifically Simon Peter, James, and John, who would soon become Jesus' disciples.

3. Boats
Two boats are mentioned, which belong to the fishermen. They are significant as they become the setting for Jesus' teaching and the miraculous catch of fish.

4. Lake of Gennesaret
Also known as the Sea of Galilee, this is the location where the event takes place. It is a significant site for many of Jesus' teachings and miracles.

5. Nets
The tools of the fishermen's trade, which they were washing, indicating the end of their fishing efforts for the time being.
Teaching Points
Divine Appointment
Jesus' encounter with the fishermen was not by chance. God orchestrates events in our lives to draw us closer to Him and to fulfill His purposes.

Preparation for Calling
The fishermen were engaged in their daily work when Jesus called them. God often calls us in the midst of our ordinary lives, and we should be ready to respond.

Symbolism of the Nets
The act of washing the nets signifies preparation and readiness. In our spiritual lives, we must be diligent in maintaining our spiritual tools and readiness for God's work.

Obedience and Faith
The fishermen's willingness to leave their nets and follow Jesus demonstrates the importance of obedience and faith in responding to God's call.

God's Provision
The empty nets at the beginning of the account contrast with the abundance that follows Jesus' command, illustrating that true provision comes from God.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the setting of the Lake of Gennesaret contribute to the significance of this event in Jesus' ministry?

2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves, like the fishermen washing their nets, to be ready for God's calling in our lives?

3. How does the concept of divine appointment in this passage encourage you to view your daily interactions and routines?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in a situation that seemed fruitless. How did that change your perspective on faith and obedience?

5. How can the parallel accounts of the calling of the disciples in the Gospels deepen our understanding of Jesus' mission and our role as His followers?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 4:18-22
This passage also describes the calling of the first disciples, providing a parallel account of Jesus' interaction with the fishermen.

John 21:1-14
This post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to His disciples by the Sea of Galilee mirrors the miraculous catch of fish, reinforcing the theme of Jesus' provision and calling.

Psalm 107:23-32
This passage speaks of those who go down to the sea in ships and witness the works of the Lord, connecting to the theme of God's sovereignty over the waters and His provision.
A Remarkable PulpitW. A. Herder.Luke 5:1-3
Attention to the Word of GodSamuel Jackson.Luke 5:1-3
Attractiveness of the True PreacherPhillips Brooks, D. D.Luke 5:1-3
Description of the LakeGeikie's "Holy Land and the Bible."Luke 5:1-3
Description of the Surrounding SceneryS. Baring-Gould, M. A.Luke 5:1-3
The Attractive Power of the GospelS. If. Hamilton, D. D.Luke 5:1-3
The Gospel and the MassesBishop Fraser.Luke 5:1-3
The Lake of GennesaretE. Paxton Hood.Luke 5:1-3
The Personal Power InpreachingDr. Herrick Johnson, of Chicago.Luke 5:1-3
The Preaching of ChristJames Stalker.Luke 5:1-3
The Word of GodW. A. Butler, M. A.Luke 5:1-3
To Hear the Word of GodJ. Parker, D. D.Luke 5:1-3
Fishers of MenR.M. Edgar Luke 5:1-11
People
James, Jesus, John, Levi, Peter, Simon, Zabdi, Zebedee
Places
Galilee, Genneseret, Jerusalem, Judea
Topics
Beach, Beside, Boats, Drawn, Edge, Fishermen, Fishers, Fishing-boats, Gotten, However, Lake, Lying, Nets, Ships, Standing, Washing
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Luke 5:2

     5433   occupations

Luke 5:1-11

     7758   preachers, call

Luke 5:2-4

     5425   net

Luke 5:2-11

     6620   calling

Library
March 25 Evening
Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing; nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.--LUKE 5:5. All power is give unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: . . . and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. The kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea. Though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: necessity is laid
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

March 19. "Launch Out into the Deep" (Luke v. 4).
"Launch out into the deep" (Luke v. 4). Many difficulties and perplexities in connection with our Christian life might be best settled by a simple and bold decision of our will to go forward with the light we have and leave the speculations and theories that we cannot decide for further settlement. What we need is to act, and to act with the best light we have, and as we step out into the present duty and full obedience, many things will be made plain which it is no use waiting to decide. Beloved,
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

December 9. "Launch Out into the Deep" (Luke v. 4).
"Launch out into the deep" (Luke v. 4). One of the special marks of the Holy Ghost in the Apostolic Church was the spirit Of boldness. One of the most essential qualities of the faith that is to attempt great things for God and expect great things from God, is holy audacity. Where we are dealing with a supernatural Being, and taking from Him things that are humanly impossible, it is easier to take much than little; it is easier to stand in a place of audacious trust than in a place of cautious, timid
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Humility
LUKE v. 8. Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. Few stories in the New Testament are as well known as this. Few go home more deeply to the heart of man. Most simple, most graceful is the story, and yet it has in it depths unfathomable. Great painters have loved to draw, great poets have loved to sing, that scene on the lake of Gennesaret. The clear blue water, land- locked with mountains; the meadows on the shore, gay with their lilies of the field, on which our Lord bade them look,
Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons

Instructions for Fishermen
'Now when He had left speaking, He said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.'--LUKE v. 4. The day's work begins early in the East. So the sun, as it rose above the hills on the other side of the lake, shone down upon a busy scene, fresh with the dew and energy of the morning, on the beach by the little village of Bethsaida. One group of fishermen was washing their nets, their boats being hauled up on the strand. A crowd of listeners was thus early gathered round
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Fear and Faith
'When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.' --LUKE v. 8. 'Now, when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him,... and did cast himself into the sea.'--JOHN xxi. 7. These two instances of the miraculous draught of fishes on the Lake of Gennesareth are obviously intended to be taken in conjunction. Their similarities and their differences are equally striking and equally instructive. In the fragment
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Blasphemer, or --Who?
'And it came to pass on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judea, and Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. 18. And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before Him. 19. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the house-top,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

"The Moody and Sankey Humbug. "
There was a man, while we were in London, who got out a little paper called "The Moody and Sankey Humbug." He used to have it to sell to the people coming into the meeting. After he had sold a great many thousand copies of that number, he wanted to get out another number; so he came to the meeting to get something to put into the paper; but the power of the Lord was present. It says here in this chapter (Luke 5) that the Pharisees, scribes, and doctors, were watching the words of Christ in that house
Dwight L. Moody—Moody's Anecdotes And Illustrations

Absolution.
Preached June 2, 1850. ABSOLUTION. "And the Scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?"--Luke v. 21. There are questions which having been again and again settled, still from time to time, present themselves for re-solution; errors which having been refuted, and cut up by the roots, re-appear in the next century as fresh and vigorous as ever. Like the fabled monsters of old, from whose dissevered neck the blood
Frederick W. Robertson—Sermons Preached at Brighton

Carried by Four
When our Lord left his retirement he found the crowd around him exceeding great, and it was as motley as it was great; for while here were many sincere believers, there were still more sceptical observers; some were anxious to receive his healing power, others equally desirous to find occasion against him. So in all congregations, however the preacher may be clothed with his Master's spirit and his Master's might, there will be a mixed gathering; there will come together your Pharisees and doctors
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

The Secret of Success.
5th Sunday after Trinity S. Luke v. 5. "We have taken nothing; nevertheless at Thy word, I will let down the net." INTRODUCTION.--S. Peter and the other Apostles had been fishing all night, and had met with no success at all, then Jesus entered into the boat of Simon, and bade him launch out and let down his net. S. Peter did not hesitate. He had met with no success when fishing in the night, nevertheless now, at the word of Christ, he fishes again, and this time the net encloses a great multitude,
S. Baring-Gould—The Village Pulpit, Volume II. Trinity to Advent

Christ the Great Physician.
"They that are whole have no need of a physician; but they that are sick. I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance" (Luke v. 31, 32). "For this people's heart is waxed gross, And their ears are dull of hearing, And their eyes they have closed; Lest haply they should perceive with their eyes, And hear with their ears, And understand with their heart, And should turn again, And I should heal them" (Matt. xiii. 15). "He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted" (Luke iv. 18).
Frank G. Allen—Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel

Jesus, Still Lead On.
"Jesu, geh Voran." "They forsook all, and followed him."--Luke 5:11. [7]Ludwig von Zinzendorf transl., Jane Borthwick, 1846, 1854 Jesus, still lead on, Till our rest be won! And although the way be cheerless, We will follow, calm and fearless. Guide us by thy hand To our Fatherland. If the way be drear, If the foe be near, Let not faithless fears o'ertake us, Let not faith and hope forsake us For, through many a foe, To our home we go! When we seek relief From a long-felt grief-- When oppressed
Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther

Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House Officers, Taxation, Publicans
It was the very busiest road in Palestine, on which the publican Levi Matthew sat at the receipt of "custom," when our Lord called him to the fellowship of the Gospel, and he then made that great feast to which he invited his fellow-publicans, that they also might see and hear Him in Whom he had found life and peace (Luke 5:29). For, it was the only truly international road of all those which passed through Palestine; indeed, it formed one of the great highways of the world's commerce. At the time
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

Penitence, as Explained in the Sophistical Jargon of the Schoolmen, Widely Different from the Purity Required by the Gospel. Of Confession and Satisfaction.
1. Errors of the Schoolmen in delivering the doctrine of repentance. 1. Errors in defining it. Four different definitions considered. 2. Absurd division. 3. Vain and puzzling questions. 4. Mode in which they entangle themselves. 2. The false doctrine of the Schoolmen necessary to be refuted. Of contrition. Their view of it examined. 3. True and genuine contrition. 4. Auricular confession. Whether or not of divine authority. Arguments of Canonists and Schoolmen. Allegorical argument founded on Judaism.
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Seventh Appearance of Jesus.
(Sea of Galilee.) ^D John XXI. 1-25. ^d 1 After these things Jesus manifested himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and he manifested himself on this wise. 2 There was together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee [see p. 111], and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. 3 Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. [As usual, Peter was the leader.] They say unto him, We also come with thee. They went forth, and entered into the boat;
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Jesus Heals a Leper and Creates Much Excitement.
^A Matt.VIII. 2-4; ^B Mark I. 40-45; ^C Luke V. 12-16. ^c 12 And it came to pass, while he was in one of the cities [it was a city of Galilee, but as it was not named, it is idle to conjecture which city it was], behold, ^b there cometh { ^a came} ^b to him a leper [There is much discussion as to what is here meant by leprosy. Two diseases now go by that name; viz., psoriasis and elephantiasis. There are also three varieties of psoriasis, namely, white, black and red. There are also three varieties
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

The Disciples of Jesus.
In this terrestrial paradise, which the great revolutions of history had till then scarcely touched, there lived a population in perfect harmony with the country itself, active, honest, joyous, and tender-hearted. The Lake of Tiberias is one of the best supplied with fish of any in the world.[1] Very productive fisheries were established, especially at Bethsaida, and at Capernaum, and had produced a certain degree of wealth. These families of fishermen formed a gentle and peaceable society, extending
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

The Conflict with Evil
The Kingdom of God Will Have to Fight for Its Advance The great objective is the Kingdom of God. In realizing the Reign of God on earth three recalcitrant forces have to be brought into obedience to God's law: the desire for power, the love of property, and unsocial religion. We have studied Christ's thought concerning these in the foregoing chapters. The advance of the Kingdom of God is not simply a process of social education, but a conflict with hostile forces which resist, neutralize, and defy
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus

The Lake of Gennesaret; Or, the Sea of Galilee and Tiberias.
Jordan is measured at one hundred and twenty furlongs, from the lake of Samochonitis to that of Gennesaret. That lake, in the Old Testament, is 'The sea of Chinnereth,' Numbers 34:11, &c. In the Targumists, 'The sea of Genesar'; sometimes, 'of Genesor'; sometimes, 'of Ginosar': it is the same also in the Talmudists, but most frequently 'The sea of Tiberiah.' Both names are used by the evangelists; 'the lake of Gennesaret,' Luke 5:1; 'the sea of Tiberias,' John 21:1; and 'the sea of Galilee,' John
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Peter's Repentance
"And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And Peter went out, and wept bitterly" (Luke 22:61, 62). That was the turning-point in the history of Peter. Christ had said to him: "Thou canst not follow me now" (John 13:36). Peter was not in a fit state to follow Christ, because he had not been brought to an end of himself; he did not know himself, and he therefore could not follow
Andrew Murray—Absolute Surrender

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