5:3 5:3

Luke 5:4

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Bible Versions

Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
Now {G1161} when {G5613} he had left {G3973} speaking {G2980}, he said {G2036} unto {G4314} Simon {G4613}, Launch out {G1877} into {G1519} the deep {G899}, and {G2532} let down {G5465} your {G5216} nets {G1350} for {G1519} a draught {G61}.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Shim`on, "Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a catch."
When Jesus had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and let down your nets for a catch.”
And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

Context of Luke 5:4

This verse is part of a pivotal narrative in the early ministry of Jesus on the Sea of Galilee (also known as Lake Gennesaret). Prior to this command, Jesus had been teaching a large crowd from Simon Peter's fishing boat, which he had borrowed for the purpose of reaching the multitudes. Simon and his partners, James and John, had spent the entire previous night toiling and caught nothing. They were likely weary and discouraged, cleaning their empty nets, when Jesus issued this seemingly counter-intuitive instruction.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Obedience to Christ's Word: The central theme is the importance of obeying Jesus' command, even when it defies human logic or professional experience. Simon, an experienced fisherman, was told to "launch out into the deep" at a time when fish were not typically caught, and after a night of failure.
  • Faith Over Experience: This passage powerfully illustrates the principle that divine instruction can override human expertise and limitations. Peter's willingness to trust Jesus' word, despite his own fruitless efforts, is a testament to burgeoning faith.
  • Divine Provision and Abundance: Jesus demonstrates His power to provide abundantly where human effort has failed. The miraculous catch that follows this command signifies God's ability to bless beyond measure when we align with His will.
  • Preparation for Discipleship: This event serves as a direct prelude to the call of Peter, James, and John to become "fishers of men". The physical act of launching into the deep for fish foreshadows their future spiritual mission of drawing people into the Kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "launch out into the deep" uses the Greek word bathos (βαθος), which means "depth" or "deep place." It refers not just to the physical depth of the water, but can also carry a metaphorical sense of going beyond the shallow or superficial. For the fishermen, it meant venturing away from the familiar shore into open, deeper waters where they wouldn't normally expect to find fish after a night of no success. The word "draught" (Greek: agra, αγρα) simply means "a catch" or "a haul," emphasizing the intended outcome of the fishing.

Practical Application

Luke 5:4 challenges us to consider areas in our own lives where we might be relying solely on our own experience, logic, or past failures. Jesus' command to Simon encourages us to:

  • Trust God's Directions: Are we willing to obey God's commands, even when they seem illogical or uncomfortable? True breakthroughs often come when we step out in faith beyond our comfort zones.
  • Step Beyond the Familiar: "Launching into the deep" can symbolize venturing into new territory in our spiritual walk, our careers, or our ministries. It means not being afraid to try new approaches or go where God leads, even if it feels unfamiliar or risky.
  • Expect God's Abundance: When we act in obedience, we can anticipate God's provision and blessing, which often far exceeds our human efforts. This principle is echoed throughout scripture, such as in the wedding at Cana where obedience led to a miraculous provision.

This verse reminds us that an encounter with Jesus often leads to a call to a deeper level of commitment and a demonstration of His miraculous power.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.

  • Matthew 17:27

    Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
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