Discussion Questions: Luke 5:1-11

For the message, Going Fishing with Jesus, given by Pastor John at New City Church on May 26, 2013

These discussion questions are designed to help you reflect upon and apply the message from the Scriptures. You can use these by yourself for reflection, or you could use these with your family or small group for discussion.

Introduction: When the late co-founder & CEO of Apple, Steve Jobs, wanted to lure Pepsis top executive to Apple, he asked him one simple question: Do you want to sell sugar water for the rest of your life, or do you want to come with me and change the world? Doesnt this quote resonate with us? Dont we all have the desire for our lives to count for something big? Why do you think this is the case? Questions: 1. At some point in life, most of us wonder about the impact of our lives. Some of us dream big dreams. Some of us wonder about the impact of our lives and ask, Are we are really making a difference? Some of us are just trying to survive while others of us are giving into cynicism. Where are you on this scale? 2. When Peter gets something of a glimpse into the majesty of Jesus, what was his reaction? Were you expecting that? Did that surprise you? What was it that caused Peter to respond in this way? 3. Jesus response might be as equally surprising. What does Jesus say to Peter? Why do you think Jesus would want someone like Peter to join him in mission? What does this say about Peter? What does this say about Jesus? What does this say about us? 4. The phrase that Jesus usedFrom now on, you will be catching menis curious. If you were Peter, what would be going through your mind when you heard this phrase? What do you do with fish after all? How is fishing for people different? What would it look like if you saw your life connected to the mission of Jesus, that is, connected to the task of catching people? Does that intrigue you? Scare you? Confuse you? Amuse you? 5. Pastor John gave the following points for reflection: Being curious is a prerequisite to knowing Jesus Being a sinner is a prerequisite to following Jesus. Being willing is a prerequisite to joining Jesus.

Where do you find yourself in these descriptions in your current journey of faith? 6. After noting that these fishermen left everything and followed Jesus, Pastor John concluded his message by challenging us with two thoughts: Examine: What is holding me back?

o o

What comfort zones is Jesus calling you to leave behind? Why is this difficult for you to do?

Dream: How could the future be different? o o Imagine, what if Peter didnt follow Jesus (cf. the boat load of results from Peters first sermon in Acts 2:41)... Relatively few were called to be preaching apostles like Peter was. But how do you see God calling you to use your time, your talents, your treasures for his purposes? How is Jesus challenging you to live big for him?

Conclusion: What is the one thing you want to take away from this study to remember or to make a change in your life? How does this text challenge you to follow Jesus?

Renewing your mind: Mark 2:17, And Jesus said to them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.