In a powerful message delivered at Faithway Baptist Church, Pastor Jason Ritchie delves into the miracle of the great catch of fish from Luke 5:1-11 (KJV), drawing profound lessons for the mission field. Titled “The Proposition of Missions,” this sermon calls believers to step out in faith, trusting God’s command to launch into the deep, even when it defies logic or comfort. Through the story of Simon Peter, Pastor Ritchie encourages us to obey God’s call, forsake distractions, and pursue the divine commission to become fishers of men.
A Fishy Command
In Luke 5:1-11, we find Jesus teaching by the Lake of Gennesaret, where He steps into Simon Peter’s boat and issues a surprising command: “Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught” (Luke 5:4, KJV). To Peter, a seasoned fisherman, this directive seemed illogical. Fishing with nets during the day in the clear waters of Galilee was unheard of, as fish could easily evade capture. Pastor Ritchie likens this to a “fishy command” – something that feels contrary to societal norms or common sense. Peter’s peers likely viewed this act as foolish, yet Jesus was calling him to step beyond his comfort zone.
This command resonates with us today. God often asks believers to act in ways that challenge cultural expectations or personal pride. Whether it’s faithful church attendance, sacrificial giving, or stepping into missions, God’s call may seem strange to the world. Pastor Ritchie reminds us that faith requires obedience, even when the outcome is unclear. Just as Peter faced a moment of decision, we too must trust God’s voice over the customs of our society or our own hesitations.
A Faltering Comeback
Peter’s response to Jesus’ command reveals a human struggle. In Luke 5:5, he says, “Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net” (KJV). His words reflect a faltering comeback, marked by deflection, doubt, and diminishing faith. Peter deflects by pointing to his past efforts, as if to say, “Lord, I’ve already done my part.” He doubts, noting the lack of results from their night-long labour. Furthermore, he diminishes Jesus’ command by letting down a single net instead of the plural “nets” Jesus requested.
Pastor Ritchie challenges us to examine our own responses to God’s call. How often do we deflect, claiming we’ve already done enough? Do we doubt God’s ability to work through us because we’ve seen no immediate results? Or do we diminish His call by offering partial obedience? Despite Peter’s hesitations, his decision to obey (“nevertheless at thy word”) opened the door to a miracle. This teaches us that even when our faith wavers, obedience to God’s word can lead to extraordinary outcomes. As William Carey said, we must “expect great things from God” and “attempt great things for God.”
A Fabulous Commission
The result of Peter’s obedience was a miraculous catch of fish so abundant that the nets broke, and both boats began to sink under the weight (Luke 5:6-7, KJV). Overwhelmed, Peter fell at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord” (Luke 5:8, KJV). This moment of humility led to a fabulous commission: “Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men” (Luke 5:10, KJV). Jesus transformed Peter’s ordinary fishing into a divine calling to reach souls for the kingdom.
Pastor Ritchie highlights three aspects of this commission. First, it required forsaking all. The disciples left their nets, boats, and livelihoods to follow Jesus (Luke 5:11, KJV). Second, it demanded following fully, even through trials like Gethsemane and Calvary. Finally, God fulfilled His promise, as these fishermen became men who “turned the world upside down” for Christ (Acts 17:6, KJV). Pastor Ritchie urges us to forsake distractions (whether careers, comforts, or worldly pursuits) and follow Christ wholeheartedly. God has a plan to use each of us to reach the lost, but it begins with launching out in faith.
Conclusion
As Faithway Baptist Church prepares for its upcoming missions conference, Pastor Ritchie’s message is a timely call to action. The proposition of missions is simple yet profound: if we trust God and step out in faith, He will do great and mighty things through us. Whether it’s giving, praying, or going to the mission field, God invites us to launch into the deep, trusting His faithful provision. Let us respond like Peter, saying, “Nevertheless at thy word,” and watch God work miracles in our lives and through our church to reach a world in need of Christ.
