LUKE 5:1–11
THE CALL OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES
Text – Luke 5:1–11
1 While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret.
2 He saw two boats there alongside the lake; the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets.
3 Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.
4 After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.”
5 Simon said in reply, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.”
6 When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”
10 Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”
11 When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him.
Historical and Jewish Context
The Lake of Gennesaret (Sea of Galilee) was central to the fishing industry in Galilee. Fishing was a common occupation, requiring great physical effort and skill. Teachers often sat while teaching, a typical Jewish rabbinic posture. Peter’s reaction—recognizing his sinfulness in the presence of divine power—reflects the Jewish understanding that God’s holiness reveals human weakness, as seen in Isaiah’s call (Isaiah 6:5). Jesus’ command to fish after a failed night challenges worldly logic and invites faith. The act of leaving everything to follow Him was radical, especially in a culture where family and trade were central.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals Jesus’ authority, not only in teaching but over nature. His miraculous sign leads to Peter’s deeper conversion (CCC 208, 1428). The call to “catch men” foreshadows the apostolic mission of evangelization (CCC 858–860). Peter’s humility and obedience model the response of a true disciple. Leaving everything symbolizes total commitment to the Kingdom (CCC 546). This call is not just for the apostles but for all baptized Christians, who are also sent to bring others into the net of salvation.
Parallels in Scripture
Isaiah 6:5–8 – Isaiah confesses his sinfulness before God’s call
Matthew 4:18–22 – Jesus calls fishermen to follow Him
John 21:1–11 – Miraculous catch after the Resurrection
Acts 2:41 – Peter’s preaching brings in thousands, fulfilling his mission
Romans 10:14–15 – The need for messengers to proclaim the Gospel
Key Terms
Lake of Gennesaret – Another name for the Sea of Galilee
Master – Term of respect for a rabbi or teacher
Catching Men – Symbol for evangelization and discipleship
Depart from me – Peter’s recognition of Jesus’ holiness
Left everything – Total surrender to follow Christ
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is read in Ordinary Time and during ordinations and vocation-related liturgies. It highlights Jesus’ call to mission and the transformative power of His word. The Church continues the apostolic mission through evangelization, the priesthood, and the universal call to holiness.
Conclusion
Jesus calls ordinary people in ordinary settings to follow Him in extraordinary ways. Peter’s response teaches that true discipleship begins with humility, obedience, and a willingness to leave behind what is familiar. The Church today continues the mission to bring souls into God’s Kingdom, one call at a time.
Reflection
Am I willing to trust Jesus even when His command challenges my understanding?
What might I need to leave behind to follow Christ more fully?
Do I see my life as a mission to bring others to Him?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, call me anew each day to follow You. Give me the faith of Peter to act on Your word and the courage to leave all behind for the sake of the Gospel. Make me a fisher of souls, sharing Your love with all I meet. Amen.