Embracing God's Call: Transformation and Community
Summary
The stories of Paul’s conversion and Peter’s encounter with the risen Christ at the Sea of Tiberias invite us to reflect on the ways God interrupts our plans and calls us into new life. Paul, once a powerful persecutor, is confronted by Jesus and transformed into a passionate proclaimer of the gospel. His story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and that sometimes the “heavenly two by four” comes when we least expect it, redirecting our lives in ways we could never have imagined. Ananias, too, is called to move beyond fear and prejudice, to see not just the truth of Saul’s past but the possibility of God’s future for him. Both men are changed by their willingness to listen and respond to God’s call.
Peter and the other disciples, meanwhile, return to fishing—perhaps out of discouragement or simply not knowing what else to do. Their efforts yield nothing until Jesus appears, instructing them to cast their nets on the other side. The miraculous catch is not just about abundance, but about learning to trust in Christ’s guidance rather than relying solely on their own wisdom. The breakfast on the shore is a moment of recognition, restoration, and communion. Peter, who denied Jesus three times, is given the opportunity to affirm his love three times, and is commissioned: “Feed my sheep.” This is not just a personal redemption, but a call to care for all of God’s children, in all their diversity.
The reality of the resurrection is not just a theological claim, but a lived experience that calls us to action. The disciples are not left to wait passively; they are sent to repair the world, to cast their nets wide, to care for the vulnerable, and to share the good news with everyone they meet. The challenge is not only to believe, but to follow—to step out in faith, to love, to serve, and to feed the sheep. The invitation is for all of us: Are we ready to follow Jesus, to cast our nets wide, and to care for one another as Christ has cared for us?
Key Takeaways
- God’s call often disrupts our plans and expectations, inviting us into transformation. Paul’s journey to Damascus began with certainty and power, but an encounter with Christ turned his world upside down, revealing that God’s grace can reach even those who seem farthest away. Our own lives may be interrupted by the holy in ways that challenge us to let go of control and embrace new possibilities. [21:00]
- True spiritual progress begins with honesty—about ourselves, about others, and about our fears. Ananias models this by voicing his concerns about Saul, yet ultimately chooses to trust God’s vision for another person over his own apprehensions. We are called to see people not just as they have been, but as God desires them to become, allowing grace to lead us beyond our comfort zones. [23:47]
- Redemption is not just about personal forgiveness, but about being restored to community and mission. Peter’s threefold affirmation of love is not only a healing of his denial, but a commissioning to care for others. Our love for Christ is demonstrated in our willingness to serve, to feed, and to tend to the needs of those around us, especially the most vulnerable. [17:45]
- The resurrection is made real in the ordinary acts of sharing, eating, and caring together. The disciples recognize Jesus in the breaking of bread and the sharing of a meal, reminding us that Christ is present whenever we gather in love and unity. Our faith is not just a matter of belief, but of embodied practice—of showing up, breaking bread, and building community. [31:08]
- The call to “feed my sheep” is radically inclusive, extending to all people in their diversity. The miraculous catch of 153 varieties of fish symbolizes the breadth of God’s love and the scope of our mission. We are charged to care for all of God’s children—regardless of background, identity, or circumstance—casting our nets wide and embodying Christ’s compassion in a world hungry for justice and mercy. [31:08]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - Call to Worship and Opening Prayer
[03:00] - Hymn: Yezu, Yezu, Fill Us With Your Love
[04:30] - Sharing the Peace and Announcements
[08:00] - Upcoming Events and Bible Study
[13:55] - Gloria and Gospel Reading Introduction
[15:22] - The Miraculous Catch of Fish
[16:57] - Breakfast with Jesus and Peter’s Restoration
[18:33] - Paul’s Conversion and Ananias’ Courage
[21:00] - The Challenge of Transformation
[23:47] - Ananias’ Honest Faith
[24:25] - The Disciples’ Discouragement and Jesus’ Guidance
[27:36] - The Reality of the Resurrection
[31:08] - The Breadth of God’s Mission
[35:16] - Prayer of Yearning and Prayers for the Community
[42:05] - Communion: Invitation and Consecration
[45:11] - Sharing Communion
[47:59] - Prayer of Thanksgiving
[48:57] - Offering and Ways to Give
[50:35] - Prayer of Dedication
[51:29] - Closing Hymn: The Summons
[55:59] - Benediction and Sending Forth
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide
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### Bible Reading
- John 21:1-19 (Jesus appears to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, the miraculous catch of fish, and Peter’s restoration)
- Acts 9:1-19 (Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus and Ananias’ role)
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### Observation Questions
1. In John 21, what were the disciples doing before Jesus appeared to them on the shore, and what changed after they followed his instructions?
2. How does Jesus restore Peter after his three denials, and what specific command does he give Peter?
3. In Acts 9, what was Saul (Paul) doing on the road to Damascus, and how did his encounter with Jesus change his plans?
4. What concerns did Ananias express to God about Saul, and how did God respond to those concerns? [23:47]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. What does the disciples’ empty night of fishing and the miraculous catch teach about relying on our own wisdom versus trusting Jesus’ guidance? [24:25]
2. Why do you think Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” and how does this relate to Peter’s earlier denial? [17:45]
3. How does Ananias’ willingness to help Saul, despite his fears, model the kind of honesty and trust God desires from us? [23:47]
4. The sermon mentions that God’s call often disrupts our plans and expectations. Why might God choose to interrupt our lives in this way? [21:00]
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### Application Questions
1. Can you recall a time when your plans were interrupted in a way that led to unexpected growth or transformation? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience? [21:00]
2. Ananias had to move beyond his fear and prejudice to help Saul. Is there someone in your life whom you find difficult to trust or help? What would it look like to see them as God sees them? [23:47]
3. Jesus told Peter, “Feed my sheep.” What are some practical ways you can care for others in your community, especially those who are vulnerable or different from you? [17:45]
4. The disciples recognized Jesus in the simple act of sharing a meal. How can you make space in your daily life to recognize Christ’s presence in ordinary moments or in community with others? [31:08]
5. The sermon talks about casting our nets wide and caring for all of God’s children, regardless of background or identity. What are some barriers that might keep us from doing this, and how can we overcome them? [31:08]
6. When have you felt discouraged or unsure about what to do next, like the disciples returning to fishing? How did you experience God’s guidance or encouragement in that season? [24:25]
7. The reality of the resurrection is described as a lived experience, not just a belief. What is one specific action you can take this week to “follow Jesus” in a tangible way? [27:36]
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*End with a time of prayer, inviting group members to ask God for courage to follow, to love, and to serve as Christ calls us.*
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him, No Matter Our Past
Jesus calls both the unlikely and the broken to follow Him, transforming lives regardless of their past mistakes or failures. Whether it is Peter, who denied Jesus, or Paul, who persecuted the early church, Christ’s invitation is persistent and full of grace. He meets us where we are, not where we think we should be, and offers us a new purpose and direction. The call to “follow me” is not limited by our history, but is an invitation to step into a life of service, love, and transformation. [18:33]
John 21:15-19 (ESV)
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
Reflection: Is there a part of your past that makes you feel unworthy to follow Jesus? How might you respond to His invitation to follow Him today, trusting in His grace?
Day 2: Transformation Through Encounter with Christ
A true encounter with Jesus brings about radical transformation, turning even the most hardened hearts toward love and service. Saul, once a fierce persecutor, is confronted by Christ and becomes Paul, a passionate proclaimer of the gospel. This transformation is not just for biblical figures; it is available to all who open themselves to Christ’s presence. When we allow Jesus to break into our lives, our priorities, perspectives, and actions are changed, and we are empowered to live out God’s mission in the world. [21:59]
Acts 9:1-9 (ESV)
But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
Reflection: Where in your life do you sense Jesus inviting you to change or grow? What step can you take today to open yourself to His transforming presence?
Day 3: Trusting Jesus Over Our Own Understanding
When we rely solely on our own wisdom and strength, we often come up empty, but when we listen to Jesus and trust His guidance, abundance follows. The disciples fished all night and caught nothing, but at Jesus’ word, their nets overflowed. This story reminds us that God’s perspective is greater than ours, and that obedience to Christ’s voice—even when it seems counterintuitive—can lead to unexpected blessings and renewed purpose. [24:25]
John 21:1-6 (ESV)
After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are relying on your own understanding instead of seeking Jesus’ direction? How can you listen for His guidance today?
Day 4: Caring for All of God’s Children
Jesus’ command to “feed my sheep” is a call to care for all people, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstance. The miraculous catch of 153 fish, representing all kinds and varieties, is a symbol of the inclusive love and mission of Christ. We are charged with loving, feeding, and caring for every person—no exceptions—reflecting the boundless compassion of Jesus in our actions and attitudes. [31:08]
Matthew 25:35-40 (ESV)
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
Reflection: Who in your community or daily life might feel excluded or overlooked? What is one concrete way you can show them Christ’s love and care this week?
Day 5: Living the Reality of Resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus is not just a story or vision, but a living reality that empowers us to act, serve, and share hope with the world. The disciples’ encounter with the risen Christ moved them from fear and waiting into bold action and mission. We, too, are called to live as resurrection people—embodying hope, unity, and love, and sharing the good news with everyone we meet. [29:30]
1 Peter 1:3-5 (ESV)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Reflection: How does the reality of Jesus’ resurrection shape your outlook and actions today? What is one way you can share resurrection hope with someone else?
Quotes
Jesus feeds the disciples as he fed one of those hungry crowds whether it was 5 ,000 people 5 ,000 families 4 ,000 families whatever where he fed the crowds they're drawn together in love by his resurrection power their unity is restored in these actions in these stories their mission is renewed and made real to them feed my sheep care for my flock. [00:32:52] (32 seconds)
Peter, who had denied Jesus three times before the cock crows, remember that from a couple weeks ago, jumps in the water to get to him. And through the process of questions, if you notice, Jesus asked him three times, do you love me? Peter is redeemed. And he learns how to follow Jesus. How do you show you love me? Feed my sheep. Care for my sheep. Care for my flock. Take care of the widows and orphans and the poor. Have compassion. And he's once again called, follow me. [00:25:17] (39 seconds)
The simple aim of today's text is to make quite clear the reality of resurrection. The risen Lord was not a vision or a figment of someone's imagination or the appearance of a ghost or a zombie. It was Jesus who had conquered death and was alive. That's the main reason John adds this appendix to show the disciples responding to Jesus as a reality. [00:29:40] (26 seconds)
The truth we know of a person or people must move to the background, and what we know of God's desire for them must move to the foreground. Indeed, scales fall from Paul's eyes. But doesn't Ananias also enjoy a little bit of a new vision of reality? I think he does. Both of them were called that day by Jesus to follow me. [00:24:00] (25 seconds)
This is what the followers of JesusJesus are called to do, not to stop caring for the sheep, but to actually step up and feed one another and care for one another, to cast our net wide. So are you ready? Okay, let's go, let's follow, and let's feed the sheep. [00:34:49] (24 seconds)
Jesus has given these disciples an incredible mission now they have unmistakable proof not only was Jesus risen he cooked them breakfast and they're ready to share their news with the world the question is whether we are ready are we ready to share this this news and are we ready to do that work to care for the sheep to go fishing to follow Jesus to cast the net everywhere our neighborhood our friends our children's friends our colleagues our grocer our hairdresser everyone share the news so are you ready do you love god do you love jesus. [00:33:24] (54 seconds)
The disciples had been given, excuse me, some audacious promises by Jesus and they were called to a higher service. They were called to take care of the world, to repair the world. But nothing's happening. They're waiting around and watching. And waiting and watching while doing nothing kind of takes a toll. [00:27:56] (30 seconds)
The truth we know of a person or people must move to the background, and what we know of God's desire for them must move to the foreground. Indeed, scales fall from Paul's eyes. But doesn't Ananias also enjoy a little bit of a new vision of reality? I think he does. Both of them were called that day by Jesus to follow me. [00:24:00] (25 seconds)
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