From Fishermen to Shepherds: Embracing Our Calling on the Right Side of Easter John 21:1-6
Introduction:
Two weeks ago, we rejoiced in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of our faith. Today, we find ourselves on the other side of Easter, challenged to live as transformed beings, fully alive in Christ. As we delve into the Word, let's explore what it means to move from being fishermen to shepherds, from the wrong side to the right side of Easter.
John 21:1-6 (NLT): Later, Jesus appeared again to the disciples beside the Sea of Galilee. This is how it happened. Several of the disciples were there—Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples.
Simon Peter said, “I’m going fishing.”
“We’ll come, too,” they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night.
At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn’t see who he was. He called out, “Fellows, have you caught any fish?”
“No,” they replied.
Then he said, “Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you’ll get some!” So they did, and they couldn’t haul in the net because there were so many fish in it.
Point 1: Living on the Wrong Side of Easter
In John 21:1-6, we encounter the disciples returning to their former way of life, symbolised by Peter's declaration, "I am going fishing." This represents a return to familiarity, a retreat to the past, away from the transformative power of the resurrection. Many of us, like the disciples, may find ourselves tempted to revert to old ways when faced with challenges or disillusionment.
The disciples' return to fishing reflects a lack of understanding of the significance of Jesus' resurrection and its implications for their lives.
Similarly, we may find ourselves slipping back into old habits or ways of thinking when we lose sight of the transformative power of Christ's resurrection.
As Christians, we are called to live on the right side of Easter, embracing the new life and purpose found in Christ.
Point 2: Casting Nets on the Right Side
Jesus, standing on the shore, instructs the disciples to cast their nets on the right side of the boat, resulting in an overflowing catch of fish. This miraculous catch signifies the abundance and fulfilment found when we align our lives with Christ.
Jesus' command to cast nets on the right side symbolises aligning our lives with Him, moving from self-reliance to dependence on His guidance and provision.
Just as the disciples experienced abundance when following Jesus' command, we too will find fulfilment and purpose when we surrender to His will.
As Christians, we are called to trust in Jesus' guidance and provision, knowing that obedience to His commands leads to abundant life.
Point 3: Embracing Our Calling as Fishers of Men
John 21:15-17 (NLT): After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
In John 21:15-17, Jesus commissions Peter to feed His sheep, emphasising the importance of shepherding and nurturing believers. Despite Peter's background as a fisherman, Jesus calls him to a higher purpose, reflecting the transformative nature of discipleship.
Jesus' commission to Peter highlights the dual role of believers as both fishers of men and shepherds of God's flock.
While not everyone may be called to pastoral ministry, all believers are called to share the Gospel and disciple others, fulfilling the Great Commission.
As Christians, we are tasked with actively engaging in evangelism and discipleship, recognising our role in advancing God's kingdom on earth.
Conclusion:
In closing, let us heed the call to move from fishermen to shepherds, from the wrong side to the right side of Easter. Let us embrace the transformative power of Christ's resurrection in our lives, trusting in His guidance and provision.
As we cast our nets on the right side, may we experience the abundance and fulfilment found in following Jesus. And let us actively engage in the mission of making disciples, recognising our role as fishers of men.
Today, I urge you to commit to living on the right side of Easter, embracing your calling to share the Gospel and nurture fellow believers. May we go forth empowered by the Holy Spirit, knowing that through Christ, we can truly make a difference in the world.
Call to Action:
As we depart from this place, let us prayerfully consider how we can actively engage in sharing the Gospel and discipling others in our spheres of influence. Whether through personal evangelism, serving in our local church, or supporting missions, let us commit to being faithful stewards of the Great Commission. Let us embrace our calling as fishers of men, empowered by the Holy Spirit to make an impact for the kingdom of God.
Additional Bible Verses:
Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT) - The Great Commission
Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) - We are created for good works
1 Peter 2:9 (NLT) - We are called to proclaim God's praises
As Charles Spurgeon once said, "Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter." Let us not be imposters, but faithful ambassadors for Christ, proclaiming His love and truth to a world in need of redemption.
