Do Not Be Afraid

Luke 5:1-11

The Big Idea

Jesus can reassure us when we feel afraid. We can listen to his direction and respond with trust.

The Bible Story

The Miraculous Catch of Fish

Luke 5:1–11 tells how Jesus taught beside the lake and directed Simon to lower his nets. After a night of catching nothing, Simon obeyed Jesus’ word, and the nets filled with so many fish that he needed help from the other boat. Simon Peter responded with awe and humility. Jesus told him not to be afraid and said that from then on he would catch people. When Simon Peter, James, and John brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed Jesus. This passage presents Jesus’ direction, Simon’s humble response, Jesus’ reassurance, and the fishermen’s willing answer to his call. It does not explain the metaphor further, so children can focus on their trust and response.

Themes

Awe and humility before Jesus Leaving everything to follow Jesus Responding to Jesus’ call Trusting Jesus’ direction

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Jesus reassures Simon and gives him a new purpose. Simon, James, and John bring their boats to shore and follow Jesus, leaving everything behind.

Talk together

Talk about it

How did Jesus reassure Simon Peter?
What did Simon Peter, James, and John do after bringing the boats to shore?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to help children notice Jesus’ reassurance, Simon Peter’s humility, and the fishermen’s willing response. Invite children to consider what it means to trust Jesus’ direction, while keeping the conversation focused on this passage and its simple, encouraging message.

Source note