What does Luke 5:9 mean?

For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: Luke 5:9

Explanation

[For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:] Luke 5:9 (KJV)

This verse captures the astonishment of Simon Peter and his companions at the miraculous catch of fish they experienced through Jesus Christ’s intervention. Earlier in the passage, Jesus instructed Simon to let down his nets into the deep water, despite Simon’s initial hesitation due to a fruitless night of fishing. The resulting catch was so large that it nearly sank their boats, leading to an overwhelming sense of amazement. This verse not only conveys the literal surprise at the physical event but also alludes to the deeper spiritual revelation about Jesus’ divine power and authority.

Historical Context

This verse is set in the early part of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. He had begun to attract followers and was teaching large crowds. Fishing was a common trade around the Sea of Galilee, and Simon Peter was a fisherman by profession. This event occurs after Jesus has already become known in the region, and it serves as a pivot point where the fishermen begin to see Jesus as more than a rabbi or teacher.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this event is often viewed as a demonstration of Jesus’ lordship over nature, affirming his divine identity. It also prefigures the work that his disciples will do in ‘fishing for people’ (Luke 5:10)—that is, evangelizing and bringing others into the community of believers. Additionally, the amazement expressed by the fishermen can be seen as a right response to witnessing a miracle, indicative of the profound impact of divine intervention on human lives.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse serves as a reminder of the power of faith and obedience. Even though Simon doubted the effectiveness of casting the nets again, he obeyed Jesus and was rewarded abundantly. This suggests that faith can lead to unexpected blessings and it challenges individuals to trust in divine guidance even when it contradicts their expectations or experiences.

Cross-References

• Matthew 4:19: “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
• John 21:6: “And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.”
• Mark 1:17: “And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.”

Language Study

The original Greek word for ‘astonished’ used in this verse is “thaumazo,” which means to wonder or marvel. The word suggests a response to something unexpected and extraordinary. The term “draught” comes from the Greek “agre,” referring to the act of catching or gathering, emphasizing the success of the catch.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, catching fish was often seen as a sign of providence and blessing. In the Greco-Roman world, gods like Poseidon and Neptune were associated with the sea and its bounty. In Judaism, God’s provision is a recurring theme, such as the manna provided in the wilderness. This verse may resonate with broader cultural understandings of divine provision while specifically showcasing Jesus’ unique authority.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science would explain the phenomenon of a large catch in terms of schooling behavior of fish and knowledge of local fishing conditions. However, the astonishment expressed in Luke 5:9 indicates that the catch was beyond normal expectations and suggests an event that transcends natural explanation from the perspective of the eyewitnesses.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians view this moment as foundational in the calling of the first disciples. John Calvin notes the miracle’s role in teaching the disciples about who Jesus was, while Matthew Henry comments on the bounty as an example of how God gives to his people not sparingly but abundantly. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges highlights the shock of the disciples in facing a miracle that challenged their professional expertise. In general, commentaries agree on the significance of the event in demonstrating Jesus’ divine authority and setting the stage for the disciples’ future ministry.