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I. FAILURE. "Toiled — nothing." Failure may be caused by

(a)  lack of aptitude;

(b)  deficiency of energy; or

(c)  want of perseverance. Notwithstanding skill, exertion, and persistence, here was failure.

1. The plea of disappointment.

2. That plea urged as a reason for relinquishing toil.

II. FAITH. "Nevertheless, at Thy word," &c. The fishermen were learning of Christ; their confidence and hope were growing. They had Christ's word to rely on, and have not we?

1. Faith in exercise.

2. A right resolve taken.

3. A new venture made.

III. FORTUNE.

1. Unexpected abundance.

2. An act of kindness compensated.

3. Plenty the reward of obedience.

4. Success the providence of the Lord Jesus Christ.

IV. Note THE RESULTS OR THE MIRACLE.

1. The perception of Christ's glory.

2. Christ's majesty producing, humility.

3. A new vocation indicated.

4. Abandonment of all for Christ's service.

(M. Braithwaite.)

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KJV: And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.

WEB: When they had done this, they caught a great multitude of fish, and their net was breaking.