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Book of Luke - Chapter 5 - Verse 8

5:8
When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

Meaning

When Simon Peter saw Jesus perform a miracle by filling his fishing net with an abundance of fish, he was overwhelmed by the power and presence of the Lord. In that moment of awe and realization, Peter was struck by his own shortcomings and sinfulness in the presence of Jesus. By falling down at Jesus' knees and begging him to depart, Peter was expressing his deep humility and unworthiness before the holiness of Jesus. This reaction is a powerful acknowledgment of one's own sinfulness in the presence of divinity. Peter's words convey a profound understanding of his own shortcomings and the purity of Jesus, as well as a sincere desire to be cleansed and forgiven. This verse serves as a reminder of the transformative power of encountering the divine and the need for repentance and humility in the presence of God.

Theological Overview

When Simon Peter saw the miraculous catch of fish that Jesus provided, he was overwhelmed by the presence and power of Jesus. In this verse, Peter's response highlights his recognition of his own sinfulness in the presence of the Lord. By falling at Jesus' knees and asking Him to depart because of his sinfulness, Peter acknowledges his unworthiness to be in the presence of the holy Son of God. This moment serves as a turning point in Peter's life as he begins to grasp the depth of his own sinfulness and the need for repentance and transformation in the presence of the Lord. This interaction between Peter and Jesus showcases the importance of recognizing our own sinfulness and inadequacy before the Lord, leading to a posture of humility and a desire for repentance and transformation in the presence of the Holy One.

American Standard Version

But Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
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