Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - I Am a Sinner

Vineyard Church of Ann Arbor Sermon Podcast

Unfinished: Encountering Jesus, Becoming Disciples - I Am a Sinner - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - a2vc.org. Like us on fb.com/vineyardannarboror watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - vimeo.com/annarborvineyard

Summary:

In this week’s sermon, Pastor Donnell Wyche explores the transformative encounter between Simon Peter and Jesus in Luke 5:1-11. The message unpacks the profound moment when Simon recognizes his own sinfulness in the presence of the divine, confessing, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man.” Through the lens of proclamation and demonstration, Jesus reveals God’s boundless generosity, freedom, and joy, offering Simon an invitation into a life shaped by trust in God rather than self-reliance. This encounter challenges Simon—and us—to embrace God’s grace in the midst of our imperfections and fears.

Pastor Donnell Wyche highlights how Jesus’ actions mirror His words. He proclaims God’s good news to the poor and oppressed and then demonstrates it through the miraculous catch of fish, showing Simon that the kingdom of God is one of abundance and freedom. Simon’s confession of sin arises not just from the miracle but from a deeper realization of God’s intimate care and presence, which disrupts Simon’s worldview and invites him to trust God in the “deep waters” of life—spaces where control falters, and faith is required.

The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder that we are seen and loved by a God who meets us in our brokenness, not to condemn but to redeem. Just as Jesus reassured Simon with the words, “Don’t be afraid,” He extends the same comfort to us, inviting us to lay down our defenses and step into a fuller, freer life. The call is clear: trust in the God who sees you, loves you, and demonstrates His goodness in both ordinary and extraordinary ways.