Fishing for Abundance: Embracing Change in Faith
Summary
The story from John 21 finds the disciples in a moment of uncertainty after the resurrection. Unsure of what to do next, they return to what is familiar—fishing. Yet, despite their efforts, they catch nothing until Jesus appears on the shore and instructs them to cast their nets on the other side. In obedience, they experience abundance beyond their expectations. This encounter is not just about fish; it’s about recognizing Jesus in new ways and being open to transformation when old methods no longer yield results.
This moment mirrors our own journey as a church community. When faced with change or uncertainty, it’s tempting to retreat to what is comfortable and known. But Jesus calls us to cast our nets differently, to be willing to try new things, and to trust that God’s abundance is found in obedience and openness. The miraculous catch is followed by a simple meal, where Jesus feeds both the bodies and souls of his friends. He then commissions Peter—and by extension, all of us—to “feed my sheep,” a call to nourish both physical and spiritual hunger in our communities.
We are reminded that our mission is not just to maintain traditions, but to embody God’s dream for the world: to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. This means thinking and acting with purpose, integrity, and compassion, as echoed in the words of Admiral Daryl Codel. The vision for our church and denomination is to be a people who are empowered by the Spirit to transform the world, not by clinging to the past, but by stepping boldly into new ways of being and serving.
As we face transitions and new opportunities, we are invited to trust that the Spirit is with us, guiding us to fish in new waters and to feed a hungry world. The call is to move forward together, to discern what it means to be faithful in this season, and to let love be the force that shapes our future.
Key Takeaways
- When faced with uncertainty, it’s natural to return to what is familiar, but true transformation often requires us to step out in faith and try something new. The disciples’ willingness to obey Jesus’ unconventional instruction led to unexpected abundance, reminding us that God’s provision often comes when we are open to change. [05:22]
- Jesus’ invitation to “feed my sheep” is a call to holistic ministry—caring for both physical and spiritual needs. Our mission is not just about programs or events, but about genuinely nourishing people with love, purpose, and community. This is a radical, ongoing commitment to meeting the real hungers of the world around us. [10:21]
- The Spirit of God calls us not to cling to old ways simply because they are comfortable, but to discern where God is leading us next. Faithfulness sometimes means letting go of tradition in order to embrace the new thing God is doing, trusting that the Spirit’s guidance will lead to flourishing. [11:17]
- Living into God’s vision for the church requires boldness, compassion, and integrity. As we think and act together with purpose, we participate in God’s dream for a world where every person encounters transformative grace and communities are made whole. This is not just an institutional vision, but a personal calling for each of us. [08:52]
- The abundance Jesus provides is not just for our own benefit, but is meant to be shared. We are called to be a people who feed others—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—so that the world might know the love and hope found in Christ. Our willingness to “fish on the other side” is an act of faith that can transform both us and our community. [11:39]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:14] - Setting the Scene: Post-Resurrection Uncertainty
[00:49] - The Disciples Return to Fishing
[01:19] - Jesus’ Instruction and the Miraculous Catch
[02:05] - Breakfast with Jesus on the Shore
[02:53] - Jesus’ Threefold Question to Peter
[03:29] - Jesus’ Prophecy and Call to Follow
[04:00] - A New Hope: Embracing Change
[04:49] - The Temptation to Return to the Familiar
[05:22] - Casting Nets Differently
[06:41] - Words of Wisdom: Thinking and Doing Boldly
[07:48] - A New Vision for the Church
[09:26] - Jesus Feeds Body and Soul
[10:21] - The Call to Feed and Nourish
[11:17] - The Spirit’s Invitation to Boldness
[12:02] - Stepping into the Next Chapter
[12:35] - Invitation to Support and Closing
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: “Casting Nets Differently”
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### Bible Reading
John 21:1-19
(The story of the disciples fishing after the resurrection, Jesus’ appearance on the shore, the miraculous catch, breakfast with Jesus, and Jesus’ threefold commission to Peter.)
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### Observation Questions
1. What did the disciples do when they didn’t know what to do after Jesus’ resurrection? What was the result of their efforts before Jesus appeared? ([00:49])
2. How did the disciples respond when Jesus told them to cast their nets on the other side of the boat? What happened as a result? ([01:19])
3. What did Jesus do for the disciples after the miraculous catch? What did he say to Peter during their breakfast together? ([02:05])
4. How many times did Jesus ask Peter if he loved him, and what did Jesus command Peter to do each time? ([02:53])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the disciples went back to fishing after the resurrection, instead of waiting for Jesus to tell them what to do next? What does this say about human nature in times of uncertainty? ([04:33])
2. What is the significance of Jesus telling the disciples to cast their nets on the other side of the boat? How does this relate to being open to new ways when old methods aren’t working? ([05:22])
3. When Jesus tells Peter to “feed my sheep,” what kind of care do you think he is talking about? Is it just physical, or something more? ([10:21])
4. The sermon says, “The Spirit of God is upon us. The spirit that says, ‘Don’t cling to old ways just because they’re comfortable. Cast your net differently and feed my people boldly.’” What does it mean to not cling to old ways, and how can that be both difficult and freeing? ([11:17])
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### Application Questions
1. Can you think of a time in your life when you went back to something familiar because you were unsure about the future? How did that turn out? Did you sense God calling you to try something new? ([04:49])
2. Are there areas in our church or in your personal life where you feel like you’ve been “fishing all night and catching nothing”? What might it look like to “cast your net on the other side” in those situations? ([05:22])
3. Jesus’ call to “feed my sheep” is about meeting both physical and spiritual needs. Who in your life or community is hungry—physically, emotionally, or spiritually? What is one practical way you could help feed them this week? ([10:21])
4. The sermon challenges us to not just maintain traditions, but to embody God’s dream for the world. Is there a tradition or habit you’re holding onto that might be keeping you from stepping into something new God is doing? What would it take to let go? ([11:17])
5. The vision for the church is to “love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.” Which of these three comes most naturally to you, and which is hardest? What is one step you could take to grow in the area that’s hardest for you? ([08:52])
6. The abundance Jesus provides was meant to be shared. Is there a way you can share what you have—time, resources, encouragement—with someone this week? Who comes to mind? ([11:39])
7. As we face transitions as a church, what is one fear or hesitation you have about change? How can the group pray for you or support you as you seek to trust God’s leading? ([12:02])
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Closing Prayer:
Invite the group to pray for courage to try new things, for open eyes to see where Jesus is leading, and for hearts willing to feed and serve others in new ways.
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus Meets Us in Our Uncertainty and Calls Us Forward
When the disciples found themselves lost and unsure after the resurrection, they returned to what was familiar—fishing—only to come up empty. Yet, it was in this moment of uncertainty and disappointment that Jesus appeared on the shore, unrecognized at first, and called out to them. He met them right where they were, in their confusion and routine, and offered new direction. In our own seasons of change or uncertainty, Jesus meets us, inviting us to listen for his voice and trust that he is present, even when we do not immediately recognize him. [01:05]
John 21:1-4 (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.
Reflection: Where in your life do you feel uncertain or tempted to return to old routines? How might Jesus be meeting you there and calling you forward today?
Day 2: Obedience Opens the Door to God’s Abundance
The disciples’ willingness to follow Jesus’ simple instruction—to cast their nets on the other side of the boat—led to an overwhelming catch of fish. The miracle did not require a change of location or resources, but a change in response and openness to Jesus’ guidance. Sometimes, God’s abundance is waiting just beyond our willingness to listen and act differently, even in familiar places. When we obey, even in small ways, we open ourselves to the surprising work of God. [05:22]
John 21:5-6 (ESV)
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 where you sense God nudging you to try something new or different? Will you take a step of obedience today, even if it feels small?
Day 3: Feed My Sheep—Love in Action
After breakfast, Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” and each time called him to care for his flock: “Feed my lambs… Shepherd my sheep… Feed my sheep.” This is a call not just to words or feelings, but to tangible acts of love and service. Jesus invites all his followers to nourish others—physically, spiritually, and emotionally—meeting real needs and building a community marked by compassion and purpose. [10:21]
John 21:15-17 (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.”
Reflection: Who in your life is hungry—physically, emotionally, or spiritually? How can you feed or care for them in a practical way this week?
Day 4: Embracing Change—Casting Our Nets Differently
The disciples’ story reminds us that following Jesus sometimes means letting go of what is comfortable and familiar, and being willing to “cast our nets on the other side.” Change can be unsettling, but it is often the place where God’s new work begins. As a community and as individuals, we are called to discern together how God is leading us to serve, love, and live out our mission in new ways, trusting that the Spirit is with us in every step. [06:09]
Isaiah 43:19 (ESV)
Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Reflection: What is one “old way” you are being invited to release, so you can embrace the new thing God is doing in your life or community?
Day 5: Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, Lead Courageously
God’s vision for the church is that we would be disciples who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously—transforming our communities and the world. This calling is not just for a select few, but for all who follow Jesus. As we step into new chapters, we are invited to do so with purpose, excellence, and integrity, trusting that God’s Spirit empowers us to make a real difference wherever we are planted. [08:52]
Acts 1:8 (ESV)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
Reflection: How can you love more boldly, serve more joyfully, or lead more courageously in your daily life this week? What is one step you can take today?
Quotes
You see today is not just a day for Star Wars fans to celebrate Jedi wisdom. It's a day that speaks of new hope. And not just the kind of hope that's in a movie. a new hope for how we live out our call as the people of Salt. As you know, change is coming to Salt. And our scripture brings this moment when the disciples are looking for their next hope. They're looking because the resurrection has happened and they're unsure of what's happening next. I find it interesting that what they went back to was what they had done before Jesus came along. [00:04:00]
They're looking for what's going to to come, what's the next thing. They go back to fishing like many of us do when we try to go back to how things used to be. And it doesn't really work out that way. They fish all night and they catch nothing. And then comes this Jedi moment or a Jesus moment. At dawn, Jesus calls out to them and says, "Friends, have you you caught anything for breakfast?" And they're like, "Nope, didn't caught nothing." And he tells them to cast their net on the other side of the boat. [00:04:43]
And they obey. And suddenly the net is overflowing. You see, if you notice, they didn't change the lake. They didn't change the boat. They didn't cast the net differently aside from being on the other side of the boat. And here we are in Salt at Salt where we're kind of in that same moment. We've fished faithfully on Sunday mornings. We've cast our nets in traditional waters. And don't get me wrong, it's been beautiful. But now, now it's time to cast our nets on the other side. [00:05:22]
It's time to decide what is the next iteration of salt. It's time to fish differently. Maybe it's fishing on a different day. Maybe it's fishing in a different way. Maybe it's fishing in a different world. And although I don't know what it means or what it looks like to do that, I believe that together we will figure this out. [00:06:04]
Last night, I was scrolling through Facebook, as many of us do, and I saw a story about a a high school friend who shared these these commencement words from the North Carolina State uh graduation that happened yesterday. And it turns out they were words that were from one of our classmates in the class of 1981 from Northfor Scythe High School. He's now Admiral Daryl Codel, commander of the US Fleet Forces Command. And Daryl said this, "Think boldly, think differently, think critically, think passionately, think compassionately." [00:06:28]
And then do with purpose, do with excellence, but most importantly do it with integrity. Because when you do and think together toward a noble purpose, you change the world. In United Methodist terms, we say that we make disciples for the transformation of the world. This past week, the the bishops for the United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Council of Bishops met in Chicago. And drawing inspiration from um Senapa, a West African word and image that encourages us to remember and learn from our past, the council of bishops and the connectional table discern the new thing that God is doing that is unfolding in this season. [00:07:16]
And after considering decisions made at general conference last year and examining the scriptures that reveals God's dream for creation, a world where every person encounters the transformation transformative grace of Jesus Christ, where communities flourish, where all creation is made whole. The council of bishops and the connectional table unveiled a new vision for the United Methodist Church. And I'm pretty excited about this. It's a vision that reflects our deep commitment to embodying God's dream for the world. [00:08:09]
And it says this, "The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and through worldwide connections." Friends, I believe this is a vision of the church that we need to live into as a denomination. And I think it's something we need to live into as our little church here in Wilmington, North Carolina. I believe that this this ties in with this miraculous catch that the disciples have. [00:08:54]
I think that that it's important to notice that what Jesus does after the miraculous catch is Jesus feeds them. He feeds them bread and he feeds them fish. Simple and nourishing, physical, but then Jesus feeds their souls. And I believe we are called to embody the same. And then Jesus turns to Peter and he asked him three times, "Do you love me?" And each time Peter says, "Yes, yes." And each time Jesus commands, "Feed my lambs, tend my sheep, feed my sheep." [00:09:26]
Jesus isn't just talking about a church potluck here. Jesus is calling Peter and is calling all of us to feed bodies and to feed spirits, to meet hunger of every kind, to nourish people with food and and a community with love and with purpose. And that's our mission. That's the mission of Salt. We're shifting not because change is easy, but because love calls us to feed in ways that really nourish, that actually nourish us and others. [00:10:15]
In Star Wars, the call is to join the rebellion, to resist the empire, to believe that light can overcome darkness. And it's exactly the same for us. The force, my friends, is with us. Not cosmic energy, but the very spirit of God. The spirit of God is upon us. The spirit that says, "Don't cling to old ways just because they're comfortable. Cast your net differently and feed my people boldly." [00:10:57]
And so, Salt family, are you ready to go fishing? Are you ready to fish on the other side? Are you ready to feed the hungry? Are you ready to feed the hungry world? Not just because we have something, but because we are called to feed the hungry world. So today, I implore you to step boldly into this next chapter to think about how we are going to fish differently and how we're going to fish fearlessly. [00:11:35]
After this Jesus appeared again to the disciples this time at the Tiberious Sea, the Sea of Galilee. This was how he did it. Simon Peter, Thomas, nicknamed the twin, Nathaniel from Canaa in Galilee, and the brothers Zebedee and two other disciples were together. And Simon Peter announced, "I'm going fishing." And the rest of them replied, "Well, we're going with you." And they went out and got in the boat, and they caught nothing all night long. And when the sun came up, Jesus was standing on the beach, but they didn't recognize him. [00:00:30]
And Jesus spoke to them and said, "Good morning. Did you catch anything for breakfast?" And they answered, "No." And he said, "Throw your net off the right side of the boat and see what happens." And they did what he said. And all of the sudden there were so many fish in it that they weren't strong enough to pull it in. And then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, "It's the master." And when Simon Peter realized that it was the master, he threw on some clothes, for he was stripped for work, and dove into the sea. [00:01:14]
The other disciples came in by boat, for they weren't far from the land, 100 yards or so, pulling along the full net of fish. And when they got out of the boat, they saw a fire laid with fish and bread cooking on it. And Jesus said, "Bring some of the fish you've just caught." And Simon Peter joined them and pulled the net to shore. 153 fish, big fish. And even with all of those fish, the net did not rip. And Jesus said, "Breakfast is ready." And not one of the disciples dared to ask, "Who are you?" For they knew it was the master. [00:01:48]
And then Jesus took the bread and gave it to them. And he did the same with the fish. Now this was the third time Jesus had shown himself alive to the disciples since being raised from the dead. And after breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" Yes, master. You know I love you. And Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." And then a second time, Simon, son of John, do you love me? Yes, master, you know I love you. And Jesus said, shepherd my sheep. [00:02:33]
And then he said it a third time. Simon, son of John, do you love me? And Peter was upset that he was asked for a third time. Do you love me? And so he answered, "Master, you know everything there is to know. You've got to know that I love you." And Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. I'm telling you very truly now. When you are young, you dressed yourself and you went wherever you wished. But when you get old, you'll have to stretch out your hand while someone else dresses you and takes you where you don't want to go." [00:03:11]
And he said this to hint to the kind of death that Peter would would have which Peter would glorify God. And then he commanded follow me. [00:03:45]
The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and through worldwide connections." Friends, I believe this is a vision of the church that we need to live into as a denomination. And I think it's something we need to live into as our little church here in Wilmington, North Carolina. I believe that this this ties in with this miraculous catch that the disciples have. [00:08:45]
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