Luke 5:5

Master (epistata). Used only by Luke in the N.T. and always in addresses to Christ ( 2 Corinthians 8:24 2 Corinthians 8:45 ; 2 Corinthians 9:33 2 Corinthians 9:49 ; 2 Corinthians 17:13 ). Common in the older writers for superintendent or overseer (one standing over another). This word recognizes Christ's authority. We toiled (kopiasante). This verb is from kopo (work, toil) and occurs from Aristophanes on. It used to be said that the notion of weariness in toil appears only in the LXX and the N.T. But Deissmann (Light from the Ancient East, pp. 312f.) cites examples from inscriptions on tombstones quite in harmony with the use in the N.T. Peter's protest calls attention also to the whole night of fruitless toil. But at thy word (epi de twi rhmati sou). On the base of epi. Acquiescence to show his obedience to Christ as "Master," but with no confidence whatsoever in the wisdom of this particular command. Besides, fishing in this lake was Peter's business and he really claimed superior knowledge on this occasion to that of Jesus.