Obedience and Right Decision: A Reflection on Luke 5:1-11
The theme of obedience and making the right decisions is central to the Christian faith. When we respond to God’s call and follow His guidance, our lives are shaped by the choices we make. In the Bible, one of the most profound examples of obedience and right decision-making comes from Peter’s encounter with Jesus in Luke 5:1-11. Through Peter’s example, we learn about faith, obedience, hard work, sacrifice, and the willingness to follow God’s calling.
1. Peter’s First Step of Obedience
In Luke 5:1-11, Jesus calls Peter to take a step of faith by putting his boat into deep water and letting down his nets for a catch. Initially, Peter was skeptical. He had been fishing all night without catching anything, but he still obeyed Jesus’ command, saying, “But because you say so, I will let down the nets” (Luke 5:5).
Peter’s obedience began with listening to the word of God. It was a simple act-following the instruction of Jesus. For Peter, this was a small step, but it would lead to a transformative moment. Often, God’s servants ask us to take small steps in our obedience to test our faithfulness and submission. In Ezekiel 47:3, the waters began at ankle level, then rose to knee and waist level. Similarly, God may lead us in incremental steps, testing our willingness to obey at each level. Through this process of submission, we develop a deeper relationship with Him.
Peter’s obedience to Jesus’ instruction was rewarded when the catch of fish was so large that the nets began to break. In that moment, Peter realized the power and authority of Jesus. Obedience, even in moments of doubt or confusion, always leads to God’s provision and revelation.
2. The Decision to Follow Jesus
Peter’s decision to follow Jesus required immediate action. In Luke 5:28, Peter responded to the call by leaving everything behind to follow Jesus. This decision was not one of delay or hesitation; it was a commitment made in the moment. Similarly, when God calls us, we must be ready to follow Him immediately, without procrastination. When God speaks, the right response is immediate obedience.
We see this principle in the life of Elisha. When Elijah called him, Elisha didn’t wait or make excuses. He slaughtered his oxen, burned his plowing equipment, and set out to follow Elijah (1 Kings 19:19-21). This was an act of total sacrifice, and Elisha’s immediate obedience set the course for his future. When God calls, there is no room for hesitation. We must make the right decision promptly, just as Peter did, and take immediate action. Delaying obedience can lead to missed opportunities and spiritual stagnation.
3. Hard Work and Dedication
Peter’s willingness to follow Jesus wasn’t just about obeying His words; it also involved hard work. In Luke 5:1-11, Peter had been working all night yet had caught nothing. He was tired and frustrated. But when Jesus asked him to let down the nets again, Peter didn’t complain. Instead, he responded with faith and action.
Peter’s hard work was essential to the miracle he would soon experience. Sometimes, we may feel exhausted or discouraged, but we must remember that God can bring about breakthroughs when we continue to work hard and remain faithful. Jesus didn’t call Peter to follow Him while sitting idle; Peter was working when Jesus called him. Obedience doesn’t mean sitting passively; it means continuing in the work God has given us while trusting in His provision.
God calls us to be faithful in our work, whether in ministry, our careers, or our relationships. By being diligent in what God has entrusted to us, we show our obedience and trust in His ability to provide.
4. The Capacity to Sacrifice
Another lesson from Peter’s story is his willingness to sacrifice everything to follow Jesus. Luke 5:28-29 tells us that Peter, along with the other disciples, left everything behind—his boat, his livelihood, and his family—to follow Jesus. This act of sacrifice was profound, for Peter gave up not just a job but his way of life.
This mirrors the story of Elisha’s calling. Elisha didn’t simply leave his job; he sacrificed everything. He slaughtered his oxen and burned his plowing equipment as a sign of his commitment to his new life as a servant of God. This act symbolized his complete detachment from his old life and the decision to follow God without reservation.
Following Jesus requires sacrifice. It requires us to let go of certain comforts and attachments. However, the reward of following Jesus far outweighs any material or temporary gain. Like Peter, we must be willing to let go of what is familiar in order to embrace God’s greater purpose for our lives.
5. The Call to Serve and Testify
Once Peter decided to follow Jesus, he did not remain silent about it. In Luke 5:29, Levi (also known as Matthew) hosted a great banquet for Jesus, inviting many people, including other tax collectors, to hear about the good news. Peter, too, shared the message of Jesus with others.
Obedience to Jesus isn’t just a personal commitment; it’s an outward expression of love and service to others. When we follow Jesus, we are called to share the gospel with those around us. Just as Peter didn’t keep his newfound faith to himself, we are also called to testify of God’s goodness and mercy to others. Our obedience to God’s call leads us not only to personal transformation but also to the transformation of those we encounter.
6. The Reward of Obedience and Following Jesus
When Peter obeyed Jesus, he was rewarded with a miraculous catch of fish. Jesus not only provided for Peter’s immediate need, but also revealed to him a greater calling: “From now on, you will fish for people” (Luke 5:10). Peter’s obedience led to a divine revelation of his true purpose.
Jesus reassured Peter that his decision to follow Him would lead to a new life—a life of significance, purpose, and eternal impact. Peter’s calling was not just about fishing for fish; it was about bringing people into the kingdom of God.
In the same way, when we obey God and make the right decisions, He reveals to us our greater purpose and calling. As we walk in obedience, God opens doors for us to serve others and make a difference in the world.
Conclusion
The story of Peter’s calling teaches us valuable lessons about obedience and making the right decisions. Peter’s journey of faith began with listening to the voice of Jesus, taking a step of obedience, working hard, sacrificing his old life, and being willing to follow Jesus wherever He led. The right decision to follow Jesus brought Peter a greater purpose and calling.
We, too, are called to listen to God’s voice, take immediate action, and make the right decisions. Obedience to God leads to blessings, purpose, and fulfillment. It’s not always easy, and there may be sacrifices along the way, but the rewards of following Jesus far exceed any challenges we face. May we, like Peter, be willing to follow Jesus with wholehearted obedience and trust in the greater things He has in store for us.
