1 On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret,
2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets.
3 And he got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.”
6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking.
7 And they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”
9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken,
10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”
11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
12 While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.”
13 And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him.
14 And he charged him to tell no one, but “go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as Moses commanded, for a proof to them.”
15 But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities.
16 But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal.
18 And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus,
19 But finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus.
20 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.”
21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
22 But Jesus, aware of their thoughts, answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts?
23 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’?
24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.”
25 And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God.
26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, “We have seen extraordinary things today.”
27 After this he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax booth. And he said to him, “Follow me.”
28 And he left everything, and rose and followed him.
29 And Levi made him a great feast in his house, and there was a large company of tax collectors and others reclining at table with them.
30 And the Pharisees and their scribes grumbled at his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”
31 And Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.
32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.
33 And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.”
34 And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?
35 The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.”
36 He also told them a parable: “No one tears a piece from a new garment and puts it on an old garment. If he does, he will tear the new, and the piece from the new will not match the old.
37 And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins and it will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed.
38 But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins.
39 And no one after drinking old wine desires new, for he says, ‘The old is good.’
The True Meaning of Luke 5
This passage from the Gospel of Luke provides a glimpse into the early ministry of Jesus Christ and the calling of his first disciples. The author, Luke, was a physician and companion of the apostle Paul, who meticulously documented the life and teachings of Jesus to share the good news of salvation with the world. Jesus’ growing popularity is witnessed in this chapter as he performs miracles and draws crowds of people eager to hear his message. The chapter foreshadows the pivotal moment when Jesus calls his first disciples – Simon, James, and John – to join him in his mission to spread the Kingdom of God. Their response to this call will have a profound impact, not only on their own lives but on the course of human history. Jesus captivates the people with his authority and compassion as we delve into this passage, leading them to seek his guidance and healing. This chapter also highlights the importance of faith and obedience, as demonstrated by the fishermen who, despite their initial skepticism, ultimately choose to follow Jesus’ instructions and become his devoted followers.
Luke 5:1-11
Jesus calls his first disciples, Simon Peter, James, and John, to follow him in a significant event found in Luke 5:1-11. The passage begins with Jesus teaching the crowd by the Sea of Galilee. Jesus sees two boats by the shore and gets into Simon Peter’s boat, asking him to put out a little from the land so he can teach the people from the boat. This simple act of using Peter’s boat as a pulpit demonstrates Jesus’ resourcefulness and willingness to use whatever means necessary to reach people with his message.
After finishing his teaching, Jesus instructs Peter to go into the deep and let down the nets for a catch. Despite having fished all night without success, Peter obeys Jesus’ command. When they do as Jesus says, they catch such a large number of fish that their nets begin to break and they have to call for help from their partners in the other boat, James and John. This miraculous catch of fish serves as a demonstration of Jesus’ power and authority over nature, showing that with Jesus, all things are possible.
Peter’s reaction to this miracle is telling. He falls at Jesus’ knees, recognizing his own sinfulness and Jesus’ holiness. Jesus then reassures Peter, James, and John, telling them not to be afraid and that from now on, they will be fishers of men. Jesus is calling the disciples to a higher purpose in this moment, to leave behind their fishing nets and follow him in spreading the message of the Kingdom of God.
This passage teaches us several important lessons. Firstly, it shows the importance of obedience and faith in responding to Jesus’ call. Despite Peter’s doubts and tiredness from the unsuccessful night of fishing, he obeys Jesus and is rewarded with a miraculous catch. This serves as a reminder that we should trust in Jesus and follow his guidance, even when it may seem illogical or impossible to us.
Furthermore, the call of Simon Peter, James, and John highlights the transformative power of encountering Jesus. These fishermen are ordinary people, yet when they encounter Jesus and respond to his call, their lives are forever changed. They leave behind their livelihoods to become Jesus’ disciples and spread his message throughout the world. This demonstrates the radical nature of discipleship and the willingness required to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
The story of Peter, James, and John being called by Jesus in Luke 5 is echoed in other parts of the Bible as well. Similar accounts of Jesus calling these fishermen to follow him can be found in Matthew 4:18-22 and Mark 1:16-20. This repetition across the Gospels emphasizes the significance of this event and highlights the unity of message in the New Testament regarding Jesus’ call to discipleship. The passage in Luke 5:1-11 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of encountering Jesus, the importance of obedience and faith in responding to his call, and the radical nature of discipleship. Just as Peter, James, and John left everything to follow Jesus, we too are called to respond to his invitation to join him in his kingdom work.
Luke 5:12-16
The story of Jesus healing a man with leprosy is found in Luke 5:12-16. This section can be broken down into a few key parts that are crucial to understanding the impact of this miraculous event.
First, let’s look at the leper himself. Leprosy was not only a physical disease but also carried social and religious stigma during biblical times. Lepers were considered unclean and were often shunned by society. Jesus not only demonstrated his compassion and power but also challenged societal norms of exclusion and discrimination by healing the leper. This act of healing shows that Jesus came to bring healing and restoration to all, regardless of their societal status or physical condition.
Secondly, the leper’s boldness in approaching Jesus is noteworthy. The leper falls with his face to the ground in verse 12 and begs Jesus, saying, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”” The leper’s faith and humility are evident in this interaction. Despite knowing his unworthiness and societal status, the leper believed in Jesus’ ability to heal him. This demonstrates the importance of faith and humility in approaching God for healing and restoration. This story serves as an encouragement for believers to come to Jesus with faith and humility, believing in his power to bring healing and wholeness.
Next, Jesus’ response to the leper is significant. Jesus reaches out his hand and touches the man, saying, “I am willing.” Be clean!” This act of touching the leper would have been shocking to those around Jesus, as touching a leper was considered defiling. However, Jesus’ touch not only brought physical healing but also signified his willingness to reach out to the marginalized and outcast. Jesus showed compassion and love through his physical touch, breaking down barriers and demonstrating God’s inclusive love for all.
Finally, after healing the leper, Jesus instructs him to go and show himself to the priest as a testimony of his healing. This act of obedience to the religious laws of the time would have verified the leper’s healing and allowed him to reintegrate into society. This demonstrates Jesus’ respect for the religious laws and his desire for people to be reconciled not only physically but also socially and spiritually. This passage in Luke 5:12-16 conveys powerful messages about faith, humility, compassion, and inclusion. It challenges societal norms and encourages believers to approach Jesus with faith and humility, believing in his power to bring healing and restoration. It also demonstrates Jesus’ compassion for the marginalized and his desire for all to experience wholeness and reconciliation.
Luke 5:17-26
The passage in Luke 5:17-26 can be broken down into a few key sections that each hold significant meaning and relevance to the overall message of the Bible. Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there as Jesus was teaching in the first part of the passage. They had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick.” This sets the scene for the miraculous events that are about to take place. The Pharisees and teachers of the law, who were considered the religious authorities of the time, were present to observe Jesus as He taught. The fact that they had come from various villages and cities shows the widespread attention and curiosity that Jesus had garnered through His teachings and miracles. A group of men carrying a paralyzed man on a mat seek to bring him to Jesus for healing as the story unfolds. The crowd was so large that they could not find a way to get him to Jesus, so they went up on the roof and lowered him through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. This act of faith and determination by the men carrying the paralyzed man is remarkable. It demonstrates a deep belief in Jesus’ power to heal and a willingness to go to great lengths to bring their friend to Him. This action also highlights the theme of persistence and the importance of community in supporting one another in times of need.
When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” Some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law criticized Jesus for forgiving sins, as they believed that only God had the authority to do so. Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, asked them, “Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?” This question challenged their understanding of His authority and power. Jesus not only demonstrated His ability to perform miracles but also confirmed His authority to forgive sins, a power that only God possesses by healing the paralyzed man. This interaction exposes the hardened hearts of the religious leaders, who were more concerned with their traditional laws and regulations than recognizing the true divine nature of Jesus. He declared to the paralyzed man in response to Jesus’ challenge, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”” Immediately, the man stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on, and went home praising God. This miraculous healing astounded the crowd and was a powerful display of Jesus’ authority and compassion. The physical healing of the paralyzed man was a visible sign of the forgiveness of his sins and the restoration of his relationship with God. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of Jesus in bringing healing and wholeness to individuals both physically and spiritually.
This passage in Luke 5:17-26 encapsulates the central themes of faith, compassion, authority, and the miraculous power of Jesus. It challenges us to examine our own faith and commitment to bringing others to Christ for healing and restoration. It also confronts us with the reality of religious legalism and the importance of recognizing Jesus as the ultimate authority over our lives. The story of the paralyzed man not only serves as a historical account but also carries timeless messages about the depth of Jesus’ love and His ability to bring about profound transformation in the lives of those who believe in Him.
Luke 5:27-32
Jesus calls Levi, also known as Matthew, to follow Him in Luke 5:27-32. This passage is rich in meaning and offers profound insights into the nature of God’s grace and mercy. The narrative unfolds with Jesus spotting Levi, a tax collector, and simply saying, “Follow me.” This seemingly simple invitation holds significant symbolic weight as it represents Jesus reaching out to those who are considered outcasts or sinners by society.
When Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him, it sends shockwaves through the community. Tax collectors in that time were generally despised by their fellow Jews for collaborating with the oppressive Roman authorities and often engaging in corrupt practices. However, Jesus shows no hesitation in reaching out to Levi, demonstrating His boundless love and compassion for all, regardless of their background or reputation. Jesus exhibits His willingness to embrace and transform even those who society deems as unworthy by calling Levi to follow Him. This act of reaching out to Levi serves as a powerful example of the inclusivity and redemption that Jesus offers to all who are willing to follow Him. It challenges us to examine our own prejudices and biases and reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and grace.
The reaction of the Pharisees and religious leaders to Jesus dining with Levi and his fellow tax collectors further highlights the radical nature of Jesus’ ministry. The Pharisees, self-righteous in their religious observance, criticize Jesus for associating with those they consider sinners. Jesus delivers a powerful message in response, stating, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
This statement is a poignant reminder that Jesus’ ministry is not just for those who appear to have their lives together or who fulfill society’s expectations of righteousness. Instead, Jesus came to offer salvation and forgiveness to those who recognize their need for a Savior. It challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards those whom we may consider outsiders or sinners and reminds us of the inclusive and transformative power of God’s love. The call of Levi and Jesus’ subsequent actions in Luke 5:27-32 serve as a powerful reminder of God’s boundless grace and mercy. It challenges us to extend love and compassion to all, especially to those who are marginalized or deemed unworthy by society. It also encourages us to reflect on our own need for redemption and the transformative power of Jesus’ love in our lives. This passage reinforces the message found throughout the Bible that God’s love knows no bounds and that He is always ready to welcome sinners with open arms.
Luke 5:33-39
Several important sections in Luke 5:33-39 provide valuable insights into the teachings of Jesus and the expectations of His followers.
Firstly, in verses 33-35, the Pharisees questioned Jesus about why His disciples did not fast like the disciples of John the Baptist and the Pharisees. Jesus responded by comparing Himself to a bridegroom, indicating that His disciples did not need to fast while He was physically present with them, as they should rejoice and celebrate His presence. This comparison of Jesus to a bridegroom is significant as it portrays Jesus as the central figure around whom his followers should celebrate and find joy. This metaphor reflects the intimate relationship that believers are called to have with Christ.
Secondly, in verses 36-39, Jesus used the analogy of new wine and old wineskins to illustrate the idea that His teachings and the message of the Kingdom of God could not be contained within the rigid structures of traditional Judaism. The old wineskins represent the inflexible and legalistic practices of the Pharisees and other religious leaders, while the new wine symbolizes the innovative and transformative teachings of Jesus. Jesus emphasized the need for a fresh perspective and openness to His message by using this analogy, rather than clinging to outdated traditions and customs. This passage highlights the tension between the established religious practices of the Pharisees and the revolutionary teachings of Jesus. It underscores the importance of being receptive to God’s new revelations and not being constrained by tradition or legalism. This theme of renewal and transformation is central to the Gospel message, as Jesus came to fulfill the Law and usher in a new covenant based on love, grace, and faith. Other verses in the Bible reinforce the concept of embracing the newness of the Gospel in parallel with this passage. Jesus in Matthew 9:17 uses the analogy of new wine in new wineskins to emphasize the transformative nature of His teachings and the need for believers to be open to God’s renewing work in their lives. Additionally, in Romans 12:2, Paul encourages Christians to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, underscoring the importance of being adaptable and receptive to God’s will. Luke 5:33-39 illuminates the contrast between the old ways of legalism and the newness of grace and freedom brought by Jesus. It calls for believers to embrace a mindset of renewal and openness to God’s transformative work in their hearts and lives, reflecting the timeless message of the Gospel that continues to challenge and inspire individuals to this day.
After Luke 5
Jesus performed miracles and called his disciples to follow him in this chapter. Despite their doubts and fears, the fishermen left everything behind to obey his command. Jesus showed his authority not only through healing the sick but also by forgiving sins, proving that he is the Son of God. Let us reflect on these events, remember the faith and obedience of the disciples, and strive to follow Jesus wholeheartedly in our own lives. We should carry the lessons learned from the disciples as we prepare to delve into the next chapter. We should be willing to leave behind our doubts and fears, trusting in the power and authority of Jesus. Just as he called the fishermen to follow him, may we also respond to his call with faith and obedience, knowing that he will lead us on a path of purpose and fulfillment. We should open our hearts to the teachings and miracles of Jesus, ready to be transformed and renewed as we continue this journey of discipleship.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.