How can we apply the disciples' obedience in John 21:11 to our faith? Setting the Scene John 21 opens with seven disciples fishing all night and catching nothing. At dawn, the risen Jesus stands on the shore and tells them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat” (v. 6). They do—and the net fills. Verse 11 describes their next act of obedience: “Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to shore, full of large fish—one hundred fifty-three of them. Even with so many, the net was not torn.” What Obedience Looked Like • Immediate response to Jesus’ instruction—even after an exhausting night • Physical effort: Peter hauls the net himself, refusing to leave the miracle half-finished • Cooperation: the catch was gathered only because all had earlier obeyed the casting command • Confidence: they expected the net to hold because Jesus had spoken Principles We Can Live By • Obedience is action, not debate – Luke 5:5 “But at Your word I will let down the nets.” • Obedience often follows previous disappointment – Galatians 6:9 “Let us not grow weary in doing good…” • Obedience partners with God’s power; He supplies abundance, we supply willingness – 1 Samuel 15:22 “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Obedience protects and preserves; the untorn net pictures unity and endurance under blessing – Ephesians 4:3 “Keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Putting It into Practice Today 1. Listen first − Cultivate a habit of seeking the Lord’s direction in Scripture before acting. 2. Act promptly − When the Word or Spirit makes a command clear, move without delay. 3. Serve where you are − The boat, the shore, the workplace—every setting is a field for obedience. 4. Expect God to do the heavy lifting − Peter hauled, but Jesus supplied the fish and kept the net intact. Trust Him for results. 5. Guard relationships − Just as the net stayed whole, strive to keep unity in the body while laboring together. 6. Finish the task − Bring the “catch” to shore: follow through on commitments, discipling, witnessing, giving. Scriptures to Remember • John 14:15 “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • James 1:22 “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Psalm 119:32 “I run in the path of Your commandments, for You will enlarge my heart.” • Matthew 28:20 “…teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always…” The disciples’ simple, tireless obedience in John 21:11 invites us to heed Christ’s voice, act decisively, and trust Him to fill our nets—while He keeps them from tearing. |
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