Starter:
[In pairs] Describe an experience you have had with a small boat
Worship:
Reading: Luke 5: 1-11
Read aloud, then allow time for everyone to re-read it for themselves along with the commentary and the questions – and reflect alone.
Commentary:
This is a crucial, pivotal passage in Luke. Up to now, Jesus had been working alone, but here we see the beginning of his calling others to share in it. We also see how an “ordinary” day spent on “ordinary” tasks can be unexpectedly transformed and become the vehicle for an encounter with God. When this happened to Simon & Co. their response was first, amazement, second a sense of unworthiness, and finally wholehearted commitment to this amazing man and his mission.
Personal Focus Questions:
- What "grabs" you in this passage?
Why?
What might God be saying to you?
- Simon was reluctant to do what Jesus told him.
Do you ever struggle with what seems to be God's will for you?
Why do you think this is?
- Have you ever been amazed at how an unpromising situation
has turned out?
Have you been able to discern God's hand in it?
Share together in threes the results of your individual reflection.
Return together as a group and share any insights.
Now together discuss these questions.
Life Focus Questions:
-
What might "launch out into the deep" (v.4)
mean for us as a church/group?
- The people crowded to hear the word of God (v.1).
Why don't they now?
Is there anything we can do to change that situation?
Prayer concerns:
Pray for help to discern what kind of “fishing” God might want to bless in our church and community.
Home reflection: [This is for you to continue your reflection at home] Reflect on the reasons Psalm 138 gives for praising and thanking God; who He is, and what He does. Allow your mind to “take forward” any phrases which speak to you particularly.
