{Master} (epistata). Used only by Luke in the N.T. and
always in addresses to Christ ( 8:24,45  9:33,49  17:13 ). Common
in the older writers for superintendent or overseer (one standing
over another). This word recognizes Christ's authority. {We
toiled} (kopiasantes). This verb is from kopos (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 t(9369)
rh(886d)ati 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.