In Galilee
(Arise Reads the Gospel According to Luke)
Big Idea: Jesus isn’t looking for the best people, but the right people to follow Him.
The Call of the First Disciples (Luke 5.1-11)
- Jesus teaches from Simon’s boat as crowds gather.
- Then, they go fishing: “Put out into deep water… let down the nets” (Luke 5.4)
- Nets break, boats fill, partners are called in. Simon responds: “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” And Jesus replies: “Don’t be afraid… you will fish for people” (Luke 5.10)
- Peter, Andrew, James, and John leave everything and follow Jesus
- Jesus calls ordinary people—not the “best,” but the willing. The call is to be all in—not halfway
The Healing of the Leper (Luke 5.12-16)
- A man approaches in humility: “Lord, if you are willing…” Jesus responds: “I am willing… Be clean!” (Luke 5.13)
- Jesus touches the unclean—restoring dignity and community. He instructs the man to follow the Law—fulfilling what came before.
- Crowds grow, news spreads. But Jesus does not leverage fame. Instead, “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5.16)
What This Means for Us
- Following Jesus is not about status, success, or visibility, but humility, obedience, and trust
- Are you following Jesus fully—or holding onto what’s comfortable?
- Go into lonely places and pray.