2-22-2026: Jesus Sought Me

Sermon Title: Jesus Sought Me  

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8; Luke 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 

Sermon Focus: In the first century, rabbis typically chose the best and the brightest to become an apprentice of the master. Shockingly, Jesus welcomed all who would come, and he chose those who were willing to “leave the nets” and follow him. In the first message of our Lenten series, Pastor David introduces us to a strong, rough-around-the-edges fisherman named Simon Peter, shares why Peter’s first encounter with Jesus is so significant, and invites us to ask ourselves: “When has Jesus sought me out?”  

Thank you for going deeper in conversation with your small group. Use the following questions to help guide your small group discussion:  

1. Begin by reading Matthew Luke 5:1-11 to yourself silently, giving everyone a few minutes to read and reflect. After that, have someone read the passage aloud. How does this story encourage you? Also, how does it challenge you? 

2. In John Mark Comer’s book, Practicing the Way, Comer talks about how Jesus’ way of choosing disciples stands in stark contrast to the typical rabbinical practice of the first century. For example, rabbis chose the most qualified, but Jesus chose the willing, laborers, outsiders, “sinners”, etc. Why is this so significant? Imagine how his first disciples must have felt when he called them. 

3. We know Peter was married because Jesus healed his mother-in-law. Do you think this helped Peter’s wife accept the news that Jesus called Peter to leave the family business and follow him? What kinds of challenges can come as a result of following Jesus? What kinds of challenges can that present to those around us (e.g., spouse, children, friends, etc.)? How have you experienced this? 

4. Notice Peter’s initial response after the miracle with the fish. Peter fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” (Luke 5:8). This response is similar to the prophet Isaiah’s response when he experienced the presence of God in the temple (Isaiah 6:5). What does this response say about us? What does it say about God? What does it mean for our faith journey? 

5. Read 1 Corinthians 1:26-31. Pastor David said, “If you feel unqualified to follow Jesus, you are exactly the kind of person Jesus calls. The invitation to discipleship is not based on intelligence, your résumé, or moral perfection; it’s based on availability, desire, and surrender to Rabbi Jesus.” Thoughts? 

6. Think about the response question for the week: “When has Jesus sought me out?” You may want to go back to the beginning when you first met Jesus. Where did your journey with Jesus begin? How did he first come to you? Also, how do you sense Jesus seeking you out now? What is he asking of you? 

7. LIFE ON MISSION QUESTION: Jesus told Peter not to be afraid. He said, “from now on you will fish for people” (Luke 5:10). This metaphor “fishing for people” speaks of drawing people into the dragnet of the Kingdom. What does fishing for people look like in your life? How is the Spirit inviting you to fish for friends, family, neighbors, and enemies so that they can see and experience the good news of Jesus? How can your small group pray for you in this venture?