Christ performed two large-catch fishing miracles: the first, in Luke 5, early in His ministry as He recruited Peter, John, James, and Andrew; the second, in John 21, after His resurrection and before His ascension as His final miracle. Comparing them shows how far He had brought His students and calls every disciple to self-examination, measuring growth in faith and in grace and knowledge (II Peter 3:18). Galilee, the disciples' home where their boats were docked, was the setting for both, giving a sense of coming full circle and offering a quiet place away from the crowds. The disciples' decision to go fishing was no leisure outing but a commitment to long, hard labor. Troubled by the crucifixion, confounded by the resurrection, and uncertain about a harder future, seven of them followed Peter, who was still ashamed of denying Christ. Fishing was a familiar, comfortable activity that took them out of public view. It was cover for their unease and lack of faith, not a demonstration of faith. They caught nothing on their own because Christ had taught that without Him they could do nothing (John 15:5). Any work undertaken apart from Him is fruitless.