New Testament
Luke 5:10
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James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were Simon's fishing partners, were just as amazed. But Jesus told Simon, "Don't be afraid. From now on, you'll be catching people."
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And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
What Luke 5:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to Simon Peter after a miraculous catch of fish. Simon, along with his partners James and John, is astonished by the event. Jesus reassures Simon, telling him not to be afraid. He then makes a profound statement about Simon's future, indicating that he will no longer just catch fish but will instead 'catch people.' This metaphor suggests that Simon will become a leader in bringing others to faith in Jesus. The call to 'catch people' signifies the shift from a life focused on fishing to one dedicated to evangelism and discipleship. This moment marks a pivotal change in Simon's life, as he is invited to participate in Jesus' mission to reach and save humanity. The verse highlights the transformative power of Jesus' call and the importance of faith in following Him, as well as the idea that God can use ordinary people for extraordinary purposes.
How to apply Luke 5:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace our calling, just as Simon did. We are reminded that God can use our everyday skills and experiences to reach others. By sharing our faith and love, we can 'catch' people for Christ, inviting them into a relationship with Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: The Great Catch of Fish (Luke 5:1–11)
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Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 5:10
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Why did Jesus choose fishermen as His disciples?
Jesus chose fishermen like Simon Peter, James, and John to be His disciples to illustrate that He can use ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Their background as fishermen symbolizes hard work, teamwork, and perseverance, qualities that are essential in spreading the Gospel. By calling them from their daily lives, Jesus demonstrates that anyone, regardless of their profession or status, can be called to participate in His mission.
How can I apply Luke 5:10 to my life today?
You can apply Luke 5:10 to your life by recognizing your unique skills and experiences as tools for sharing your faith. Just as Simon Peter was called to 'catch people,' you are encouraged to engage with others, share your testimony, and invite them into a relationship with Christ. This verse serves as a reminder that God can use your everyday interactions to make a significant impact in the lives of those around you.
What does this verse teach about fear and faith?
In Luke 5:10, Jesus reassures Simon Peter by telling him not to be afraid. This teaches us that fear is a natural response when faced with the unknown, especially when called to a new purpose. However, faith in Jesus allows us to overcome that fear and embrace our calling. The verse encourages believers to trust in God's plan and step out in faith, knowing that He equips us for the tasks He sets before us.
What is the significance of Jesus calling Simon Peter?
The significance of Jesus calling Simon Peter in Luke 5:10 lies in the transformative nature of His call. It marks the beginning of Peter's journey as a disciple and leader in the early church. This moment signifies a divine calling that redirects Peter's life from a mundane profession to a mission of spiritual significance, highlighting the idea that Jesus sees potential in everyone and invites them to participate in His work.
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