Luke 5:8
Verse
Context
The First Disciples
7So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees. “Go away from me, Lord,” he said, “for I am a sinful man.”9For he and his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken,
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Depart from me; for I am a sinful man - Εξελθε απ' εμου, Go out from me, i.e. from my boat. Peter was fully convinced that this draught of fish was a miraculous one; and that God himself had particularly interfered in this matter, whose presence and power he reverenced in the person of Jesus. But as he felt himself a sinner, he was afraid the Divine purity of Christ could not possibly endure him; therefore he wished for a separation from that power, which he was afraid might break forth and consume him. It seems to have been a received maxim among the Jews, that whoever had seen a particular manifestation of God should speedily die. Hence Jacob seemed astonished that his life should have been preserved, when he had seen God face to face, Gen 32:30. So the nobles of Israel saw God, and yet did eat and drink; for on them he had laid not his hand, i.e. to destroy them, though it appears to have been expected by them, in consequence of this discovery which he made of himself. See Exo 24:10, Exo 24:11 (note), and the notes there. This supposition of the Jews seems to have been founded on the authority of God himself, Exo 33:20 : There shall no man see my Face and Live. So Moses, Deu 5:26 : Who is there of all flesh that hath heard the voice of the living God, speaking out of the midst of the fire as we have, and Lived? So Gideon expected to be immediately slain, because he had seen an angel of the Lord, and a miracle performed by him. See Jdg 6:21-23. So likewise Manoah and his wife, Jdg 13:22 : We shall surely Die, for we have Seen God. These different passages sufficiently show in what sense these words of Peter are to be understood.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Depart, &c.--Did Peter then wish Christ to leave him? Verily no. His all was wrapt up in Him (Joh 6:68). "It was rather, Woe is me, Lord! How shall I abide this blaze of glory? A sinner such as I am is not fit company for Thee." (Compare Isa 6:5.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
When Simon Peter saw it,.... The multitude of fish that was taken, and both vessels filled with them, and the danger they were in of sinking, he fell down at Jesus' knees. The Arabic and Persic versions read, "at" his "feet": he fell on his knees before him, and threw himself prostrate at his feet, as a worshipper of him, and a supplicant unto him: saying, depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord; this he said, not as though the presence of Christ was burdensome, or disagreeable to him; but as one amazed at the greatness of the miracle wrought, and struck with the sense of the power of Christ, put forth therein; and with the greatness of his majesty so near him; and as conscious to himself of his own vileness and unworthiness to be in his presence; and so the Persic version adds, and which may serve as a comment, "and am not worthy that thou shouldst be with me": he had much the same sense of things as the centurion had, Mat 8:8 and when it is considered how gracious persons have been struck with awe and fear, and a consciousness of sin, weakness, and unworthiness, at the appearance of an angel, as Zacharias, Luk 1:12 and the shepherds, Luk 2:9 yea, at the presence of an holy man of God, as the widow of Sarepta at Elijah, saying much the same as Peter does here, Kg1 17:18 it need not be wondered at, that Peter should so express himself, in these circumstances.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:8 I’m such a sinful man: Cp. Isa 6:5.
Luke 5:8
The First Disciples
7So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees. “Go away from me, Lord,” he said, “for I am a sinful man.”9For he and his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Sense of the Holy
By A.W. Tozer3.8K36:40HolinessEXO 3:4PSA 51:10ISA 6:1MAT 22:37LUK 5:8ROM 3:23REV 4:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the challenge of expressing and understanding the divine. He emphasizes that what Isaiah saw and experienced was beyond human comprehension and cannot be adequately described. The preacher highlights the importance of feeling the presence of God rather than trying to intellectually understand it. He also emphasizes the need for personal cleansing and confession before being able to effectively serve God. The sermon encourages listeners to have a humble and willing heart to be used by God, rather than relying on theological knowledge or pride.
Finishing the Course - 03 the Ministry of the Holy Spirit
By Zac Poonen2.9K1:59:48Finishing WellGEN 18:27GEN 42:21JOB 42:5ISA 6:5MAT 17:6LUK 5:8REV 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being free from the opinions of men and instead being open to the influence of the Holy Spirit. He highlights how in the Old Testament, whenever people received enlightenment from the scriptures, they saw Jesus and had a profound reaction of humility and awe. The speaker encourages the audience to seek not just to hear about God, but to truly see Him in their meetings and encounters with Him. He also shares a story about children trying to tell the biggest lie to win a dog, illustrating the need for humility and honesty in our interactions with others. The sermon concludes with the speaker expressing his desire to preach in a way that shines the light on Jesus and blows the trumpet of truth, even if he himself remains unseen or unknown.
The Touch of God - Slovakia Conference 2003 (Slovakian/english)
By David Wilkerson2.8K1:15:33SlovakianPSA 51:17ISA 6:5JER 20:9EZK 9:4LUK 5:8ACT 9:3REV 21:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a man of prayer and brokenness. He shares his own journey of spiritual laziness and how he had to make a decision to dedicate himself to prayer and seeking God. He also highlights the danger of churches neglecting the message of the cross and focusing on making people feel good rather than addressing sin and conviction. The preacher encourages listeners to prioritize prayer and to be willing to be used by God, reminding them that God can do great things through those who believe and surrender to Him.
The Greatness of God (Isaiah 6) - Part 2
By Paul Washer2.5K1:24:02ISA 6:2LUK 5:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit in the preaching of the gospel. He acknowledges that preaching alone cannot bring about salvation without the Holy Spirit's intervention. However, God has promised to bless the right kind of preaching and use it as a means of salvation. The preacher also highlights two reasons why people often feel empty: their focus on themselves and their pursuit of their own will. He encourages listeners to shift their focus to the infinite glories of God and to surrender their will to God's, which will ultimately bring fulfillment.
Keys to Spiritual Growth - Part 3
By John MacArthur2.2K52:42NEH 9:33PSA 51:4DAN 9:20LUK 5:8LUK 18:13EPH 4:322TI 3:161PE 2:21JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth in the Christian life, highlighting the ongoing process of maturing in faith. It stresses the need for believers to continually grow in grace, knowledge, and maturity through the Word of God. Confessing Jesus as Lord, aiming life at God's glory, and acknowledging and repenting of sin are key aspects of spiritual growth discussed in this sermon.
The Greatness of God (Isaiah 6) - Part 3
By Paul Washer2.2K39:10JOB 42:6ISA 6:5HAB 3:16LUK 5:8LUK 5:10ROM 10:9REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the greatness of Christ and the impending judgment day. He describes a scene where the greatest creatures in existence are fleeing in terror from Christ's presence, while humans are being forced to march towards Him. The preacher challenges the audience to examine the language used in evangelism throughout history and highlights the call to repent and believe in Christ. He also discusses the concept of common grace and how it restrains the evil in individuals, even those who are not yet converted. The sermon concludes with a comparison between the Old Testament prophet Isaiah's encounter with God and Peter's encounter with Jesus in the New Testament, highlighting the transformative power of encountering God's glory.
The Vision of God
By Chuck Smith1.8K35:12VisionEXO 3:11ISA 6:1ISA 6:7JER 1:6LUK 5:8ROM 3:10In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Isaiah chapter 6, where Isaiah hears the voice of the Lord asking who will go and be sent by Him. The speaker emphasizes the need for servants for God's work in these last days. They highlight the importance of recognizing our own inadequacies and offering ourselves to God for His work. The sermon also emphasizes the humbling experience of seeing God's holiness and our own sinfulness, and how it is only through God's grace and righteousness that we are qualified to serve Him.
(Through the Bible) Isaiah 6-10
By Chuck Smith1.4K1:25:51ISA 6:5ISA 11:1DAN 10:8MAT 5:3LUK 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of studying and understanding the descriptions of the heavenly scene in the Bible. He encourages believers to read chapters like Revelation 4 and 5, and Ezekiel 1 and 10, which describe the throne of God. The speaker highlights the awesomeness of God as the creator of the universe and the worship and acknowledgement of Him around the throne. He also mentions Isaiah's vision of the throne of God, which led him to see himself in a new light and offer himself to be sent by God. The sermon concludes with the reminder that when God touches our lives, He wants to use us to touch others and fulfill His work.
Threefold Vision (Alternative 2)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.2K1:25:08VisionJOB 42:5ISA 1:21ISA 5:8ISA 6:5ISA 6:7ISA 6:9ISA 20:2LUK 5:8REV 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being conscious of eternity rather than being focused on worldly possessions and self-image. He explains that there are four different perceptions of ourselves: the person we think we are, the person others think we are, the person we think others think we are, and the person God knows we are. The speaker encourages the audience to see themselves as God sees them and to be honest before Him. He also shares a powerful illustration of witnessing the suffering and brokenness in the world, highlighting the negative impact of pornography and the responsibility of older generations in corrupting young minds.
Personal Holiness - Part 6
By William MacDonald1.1K34:42HolinessPRO 4:18MAT 4:18LUK 2:8LUK 5:4LUK 5:8LUK 5:11ACT 5:41In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of giving back to the Lord and how everything we have comes from Him. He emphasizes the importance of launching out into the deep and not staying in the shallow waters of life to avoid problems. The preacher also highlights the reaction of Simon Peter when he saw the glory of Jesus, realizing his own unworthiness. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the tragedy of a wasted life and the need to translate the teachings into action.
Have You Forsaken Your First Love
By Michael L. Brown1.0K51:14PSA 34:18PSA 51:17ISA 55:6MAT 6:33LUK 5:4LUK 5:8ACT 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of obedience and commitment in changing the world. Despite the energy and activity in their efforts, they keep hitting the same walls and witnessing suffering. The speaker mentions a compilation of children praying for America, which deeply touched them and highlighted the hunger and desperation for God. They discuss the need for a spiritual and moral revolution, which will ultimately lead to a cultural revolution. The speaker also reflects on their own life and the desire to make a lasting impact for God's kingdom.
The Attributes of God - Part 2
By William MacDonald95633:18Attributes of GodLEV 19:2ISA 6:5HAB 1:12LUK 5:81PE 1:16REV 4:8In this sermon, the preacher begins by leading the congregation in singing a hymn that praises God and emphasizes peace, love, honor, and joy. The sermon then focuses on the holiness of God and how He cannot tolerate sin or overlook it. The preacher references Habakkuk and Revelation to support this point. The sermon concludes by highlighting the practical application of understanding God's holiness, which should lead to a profound sense of reverence.
The God of the Bible vs. the God of Today 1 of 2
By Rolfe Barnard84047:53MAT 6:33LUK 5:8JHN 17:1ACT 4:12ROM 1:16EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that people are not inherently good and are instead filled with self-will and self-love. He highlights that sin today is more prevalent than ever before and manifests as hostility towards God's rule. The preacher encourages the audience to be aware of those who may be in need of help and to be willing to assist them. He also shares a story about a man who persistently tried to bring someone to a gospel service, highlighting the importance of perseverance in reaching out to others. The sermon references the book of John, specifically chapter 17, and emphasizes the need for individuals to recognize their own sinfulness and seek God's help.
The Fifth Gospel
By Bill McLeod78144:42GospelISA 6:5LUK 5:8JHN 1:29In this sermon, the preacher discusses the commission given to John the Baptist to preach about Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that John fulfilled this commission by proclaiming Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, just as Isaiah prophesied in Isaiah chapter 40. The preacher also highlights the transformation that occurs when one encounters the presence of God, using the example of Isaiah's trembling and realization of his own corruption. He emphasizes the importance of humbling oneself before God and seeking revival through the Word of God. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God works salvation and revival in the midst of His people, and that Christians should allow the Word of Christ to dwell in them and transform their lives.
Song of Solomon - the Journey of Love
By Phil Beach Jr.331:09:17God's LoveLoveIntimacy with ChristPSA 139:14SNG 1:2MAL 4:2MAT 11:28LUK 5:8JHN 17:6ROM 7:182CO 5:211JN 4:19REV 2:4Phil Beach Jr. shares a profound message on the 'Song of Solomon,' emphasizing the deep, romantic love that God has for His people. He illustrates how understanding this love can heal our insecurities and fears, allowing us to embrace our identity as beloved children of God. Through a vision of a high school sweetheart, he conveys the importance of being secure in Christ's love, which liberates us from the opinions of others. The sermon calls for a return to our first love, urging believers to seek intimacy with Christ rather than mere service. Ultimately, Beach encourages the congregation to experience the unspeakable love of Jesus, which transforms and empowers us.
Four Fishermen Become Fishers of Men Luke 5:1-11
By David Servant1PRO 3:5MAT 6:33LUK 5:8LUK 5:10PHP 4:19David Servant preaches about the miraculous catch of fish by Peter and his partners after obeying Jesus' instructions, highlighting the importance of humbling ourselves, believing in Jesus as Lord, confessing our sins, and following Him wholeheartedly. The story demonstrates how God provides for His followers and calls them to a new purpose, just as He did for Peter and the other fishermen who left everything to follow Jesus.
Looking Unto Jesus
By Paris Reidhead0MAT 18:20LUK 4:18LUK 5:8EPH 4:27HEB 12:1REV 1:5Paris Reidhead preaches on the importance of looking unto Jesus as the author and finisher of our faith, emphasizing that Christ is central and vital to the Christian life. He highlights the need to lay aside every weight and sin that hinders us in running the race set before us, drawing from Hebrews 12:1-2. Reidhead explains that revival comes when people see Christ and are willing to confess, forsake, and testify of their sins for cleansing and restoration. He warns against allowing weights and sins to impede our relationship with God, urging believers to keep their focus solely on Jesus for strength, wisdom, and fellowship.
Wondering Worship
By A.W. Tozer0WorshipAwe in God's PresenceGEN 17:3EXO 3:6JOB 42:5PSA 95:6ISA 6:5LUK 5:82CO 12:2PHP 2:10HEB 12:28REV 1:17A.W. Tozer explores the concept of 'wonder' as the third stage of true worship, emphasizing that it transcends understanding and leads to a delightful astonishment in the presence of God. He cites biblical figures like Abraham, Moses, Paul, and John, who experienced profound awe during their encounters with the divine, illustrating that such wonder is a timeless aspect of worship. Tozer acknowledges that while these experiences may seem extraordinary, the spiritual essence remains constant for all believers. He highlights the role of hymns in expressing this wonder, suggesting that they capture the ineffable feelings of worshipers. Ultimately, Tozer indicates that while wonder is significant, it is not the final stage of worship, as true adoration must follow.
Amos 7:14
By Chuck Smith0Ordinary PeopleGod's CallingEXO 3:10ISA 6:5JER 1:6AMO 7:14MAT 4:19LUK 5:8ROM 8:281CO 1:272CO 3:51TI 1:15Chuck Smith emphasizes that God has a unique plan of service for each individual, highlighting that He does not redeem us merely to occupy space in a pew but to actively touch the lives of others. He points out that God uses ordinary people, like Amos, who may feel unqualified, to accomplish His work, and that many disqualify themselves based on their perceived ordinariness. Smith reassures that God's callings come with His enablements, and one does not need to abandon their current responsibilities to fulfill God's purpose. Ultimately, the sermon reflects God's deep love for the lost, as He continues to reach out to His people despite their shortcomings.
I Am Undone
By Thomas Brooks0Vision of GodHumilityJOB 42:5PSA 51:5ISA 6:5ISA 57:15LUK 5:8ROM 3:232CO 12:9EPH 2:8PHP 3:81JN 1:8Thomas Brooks preaches on Isaiah's profound realization of his own unworthiness upon encountering the glory of the Lord, expressing the sentiment 'I am undone.' This revelation highlights the contrast between God's holiness and human sinfulness, leading to a deep awareness of our own emptiness and need for redemption. Brooks emphasizes that a true vision of God brings clarity to our spiritual condition, prompting a response of humility and repentance.
Humble Souls
By Thomas Brooks0Communion with GodHumilityGEN 18:26JOB 42:5ISA 6:2ISA 6:5LUK 5:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes that humble souls are closest to God, experiencing profound communion and clarity in their vision of both God's glory and their own sinfulness. He illustrates this through biblical examples, such as Job and Isaiah, who, upon encountering God's holiness, are struck by their own unworthiness and sin. Brooks highlights that true humility leads to a deeper understanding of our own flaws and a recognition of our need for God's grace. He encourages believers to embrace this humility as a pathway to a richer relationship with God.
The Man in the Land
By Watchman Nee0Obedience and FaithFellowshipGEN 12:7GEN 13:14GEN 15:2GEN 15:6GEN 15:14LUK 5:8HEB 5:8JAS 3:81PE 2:23Watchman Nee emphasizes the significance of fellowship among believers, urging us to value one another and practice patience as exemplified by Jesus. He illustrates this through Abraham's tests in Canaan, highlighting the importance of obedience, self-restraint, and trusting God for our inheritance rather than relying on worldly means. Abraham's journey teaches us that true victory comes from spiritual warfare and a humble spirit, as he rescues Lot without harboring resentment. Ultimately, God reassures Abraham of His promises, emphasizing that faith and purity of spirit are essential for fulfilling God's purpose. The sermon calls us to recognize the transformative power of the Cross in our lives.
Homily 3 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom02SA 16:10PRO 22:4EZK 36:22MAT 1:1LUK 5:8LUK 18:141CO 15:9JAS 4:10John Chrysostom preaches on the genealogy of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the mystery and significance behind tracing Joseph's genealogy and the Virgin Mary's betrothal to him, highlighting the divine purpose of concealing Christ's virgin birth from the Jews. He delves into the importance of humility, urging believers to forget their good deeds and avoid seeking recognition, but rather to focus on virtuous actions without pride. Chrysostom uses biblical examples like David's humility and self-restraint to illustrate the power of a contrite heart and the blessings of lowliness before God.
Exodus 3:1
By Chuck Smith0Identity in ChristGod's SufficiencyEXO 3:11JOB 40:4ISA 6:5DAN 10:8MAT 28:20LUK 5:8ACT 7:252CO 12:9PHP 4:131TI 1:15Chuck Smith explores the profound question 'Who am I?' as posed by Moses after forty years of shepherding in the desert. He emphasizes that Moses' initial confidence, stemming from his royal upbringing, was transformed into humility and self-doubt, leading him to realize that it is not about who he is, but about who God is and His sufficiency. Smith highlights that God's call comes with His presence and empowerment, regardless of our perceived inadequacies. The sermon illustrates that true revelation from God often exposes our imperfections, yet it is through these humble vessels that God accomplishes His great work.
The Feet of Jesus-the Place for Personal Necessity
By Philip Bennett Power0PSA 139:23MAT 11:28MRK 7:25MRK 9:24LUK 5:8LUK 7:37LUK 8:41LUK 17:15JHN 11:32JHN 14:1Philip Bennett Power preaches on the significance of bringing our sorrows and needs to the feet of Jesus, as seen in various encounters in the Bible where individuals sought Jesus' help and comfort. These incidents illustrate different aspects of Christian life, such as faith, personal sorrow, gratitude, love, and recognition of our need for rest and redemption. The stories of Jairus, the Syrophoenician woman, and Mary show how Jesus understands and responds to our individual and unique struggles, offering comfort, healing, and restoration at His feet.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Depart from me; for I am a sinful man - Εξελθε απ' εμου, Go out from me, i.e. from my boat. Peter was fully convinced that this draught of fish was a miraculous one; and that God himself had particularly interfered in this matter, whose presence and power he reverenced in the person of Jesus. But as he felt himself a sinner, he was afraid the Divine purity of Christ could not possibly endure him; therefore he wished for a separation from that power, which he was afraid might break forth and consume him. It seems to have been a received maxim among the Jews, that whoever had seen a particular manifestation of God should speedily die. Hence Jacob seemed astonished that his life should have been preserved, when he had seen God face to face, Gen 32:30. So the nobles of Israel saw God, and yet did eat and drink; for on them he had laid not his hand, i.e. to destroy them, though it appears to have been expected by them, in consequence of this discovery which he made of himself. See Exo 24:10, Exo 24:11 (note), and the notes there. This supposition of the Jews seems to have been founded on the authority of God himself, Exo 33:20 : There shall no man see my Face and Live. So Moses, Deu 5:26 : Who is there of all flesh that hath heard the voice of the living God, speaking out of the midst of the fire as we have, and Lived? So Gideon expected to be immediately slain, because he had seen an angel of the Lord, and a miracle performed by him. See Jdg 6:21-23. So likewise Manoah and his wife, Jdg 13:22 : We shall surely Die, for we have Seen God. These different passages sufficiently show in what sense these words of Peter are to be understood.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Depart, &c.--Did Peter then wish Christ to leave him? Verily no. His all was wrapt up in Him (Joh 6:68). "It was rather, Woe is me, Lord! How shall I abide this blaze of glory? A sinner such as I am is not fit company for Thee." (Compare Isa 6:5.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
When Simon Peter saw it,.... The multitude of fish that was taken, and both vessels filled with them, and the danger they were in of sinking, he fell down at Jesus' knees. The Arabic and Persic versions read, "at" his "feet": he fell on his knees before him, and threw himself prostrate at his feet, as a worshipper of him, and a supplicant unto him: saying, depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord; this he said, not as though the presence of Christ was burdensome, or disagreeable to him; but as one amazed at the greatness of the miracle wrought, and struck with the sense of the power of Christ, put forth therein; and with the greatness of his majesty so near him; and as conscious to himself of his own vileness and unworthiness to be in his presence; and so the Persic version adds, and which may serve as a comment, "and am not worthy that thou shouldst be with me": he had much the same sense of things as the centurion had, Mat 8:8 and when it is considered how gracious persons have been struck with awe and fear, and a consciousness of sin, weakness, and unworthiness, at the appearance of an angel, as Zacharias, Luk 1:12 and the shepherds, Luk 2:9 yea, at the presence of an holy man of God, as the widow of Sarepta at Elijah, saying much the same as Peter does here, Kg1 17:18 it need not be wondered at, that Peter should so express himself, in these circumstances.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:8 I’m such a sinful man: Cp. Isa 6:5.