18 While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.
19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
21 And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them.
22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 4:18-22
In Matthew chapter 4, we find Jesus walking along the Sea of Galilee when he comes across two brothers, Simon Peter and Andrew, who were casting their nets into the sea. Jesus calls out to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Without hesitation, Simon Peter and Andrew leave their nets and follow Jesus.
As they continue walking along the shore, they come across another set of brothers, James and John, who were in a boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. Jesus calls out to them as well, and immediately James and John leave their boat and father to follow Jesus.
The scene is set against the backdrop of the Sea of Galilee, with the gentle waves lapping against the shore and the sun beginning to set in the distance. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, as these four men make a life-changing decision to leave behind their livelihoods and families to follow Jesus and become his disciples. The call of Jesus is powerful and compelling, drawing these men to embark on a journey of faith and discipleship that will forever change their lives.
What is Matthew 4:18-22 about?
Jesus calls upon His first disciples, Simon Peter and Andrew, in this verse, and we witness the powerful moment. It is a pivotal moment in their lives as they are being summoned by Jesus to leave behind their current way of life and follow Him. This calling represents a transformation from being ordinary fishermen to becoming devoted followers of Jesus, who would later play significant roles in spreading His teachings.
Imagine the scene where Jesus approaches Simon Peter and Andrew as they are going about their daily work. They are presented with a choice – to continue their familiar routines or to embark on a new journey with Jesus. The act of following Jesus signifies a deep sense of trust and commitment to His teachings, even though the path ahead might be uncertain. It is a reminder to us all that answering the call to follow Jesus requires courage, faith, and a willingness to let go of the familiar to embrace the divine. We reflect on this verse, prompting us to consider our own response to Jesus’ call in our lives. Are we willing to leave behind our comfort zones and follow Him wholeheartedly? Like Simon Peter and Andrew, we are invited to step out in faith and trust that following Jesus will lead us to a life filled with purpose, meaning, and everlasting joy.
Understanding what Matthew 4:18-22 really means
Let’s delve into the passage of Matthew 4:18-22, and explore its underlying meaning, relevance, and application to our lives today.
Structure for Commentary:
- Introduction and Context
- Detailed Breakdown of Key Phrases
- Connection to Other Biblical Passages
- Relevance to Contemporary Life
- Anecdote for Illustration
- Conclusion and Reflection
Introduction and Context:
This passage describes Jesus calling His first disciples—Simon Peter and Andrew, followed by James and John. This moment is pivotal as it marks the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and the formation of His core group of followers.
Detailed Breakdown of Key Phrases:
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“Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
This invitation is profound. Jesus is not merely asking them to physically follow Him but to adopt a new mission. The phrase “fishers of men” suggests a transformative role—they will now bring people to the knowledge of God. -
“Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.”
The immediacy of their response highlights their faith and willingness to leave behind their livelihood. It signifies the urgency and importance of Jesus’ call.
Connection to Other Biblical Passages:
This calling resonates with other scriptures. Jesus also tells Peter in Luke 5:10, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will catch men.”” Similarly, in Mark 1:17, the same invitation is extended. These passages collectively underscore the theme of discipleship and evangelism.
Relevance to Contemporary Life:
Today, many of us are preoccupied with our own “nets”—our careers, routines, and personal goals. Jesus’ call to follow Him and become “fishers of men” challenges us to prioritize spiritual pursuits and invest in the lives of others. It prompts us to consider: What are we willing to leave behind to follow Jesus? Sarah, a successful corporate lawyer, felt a deep sense of unfulfillment despite her achievements. One day, she attended a mission trip and experienced a profound calling. She decided to leave her high-paying job to work with a non-profit organization that helps underprivileged children. Like the disciples, Sarah answered the call to become a “fisher of men,” finding true purpose in serving others. Matthew 4:18-22 is not just a historical account but a living invitation in summary. It challenges us to reflect on our priorities, listen to Jesus’ call, and respond with the same immediacy and faith as the first disciples. What “nets” are you holding onto? How can you become a “fisher of men” in your own context?
Reflect on these questions and let them guide your journey of faith and discipleship.
How can we respond immediately when called by God?
When called by God, we should respond immediately and wholeheartedly, just as the disciples Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John did in the verses you mentioned. They immediately left their nets and followed Jesus without hesitation or delay. Their quick and obedient response to Jesus’ call shows us the importance of being ready and willing to leave behind our own plans and desires to follow God’s will. It teaches us that when God calls us, it is crucial to put our faith and trust in Him and follow wherever He may lead us.
Just like the disciples, we are also called to respond promptly when God calls us. We should be willing to let go of anything that may hinder us from fully following Him. We can experience the blessings and fulfillment that come from walking in obedience to God’s calling by doing so. Let us not hesitate to respond when God calls us to a life of discipleship and service, like the disciples.
Application
Think of your daily grind at work or the precious moments with family—when the call to action comes, will you drop everything to seize it? Just like Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John instantly left their boats and nets to follow Jesus, it’s time for you to prioritize your commitment to something greater. Are you ready to break free from your comfort zone and answer the call with the same readiness and dedication? What are you waiting for?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.