Followers of Jesus Choosing The 12 Disciples

Bible Study Lesson from Mark 1:14-20

15 and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."

16 As He was going along by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen.

17 And Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men."

18 Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.

19 Going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in the boat mending the nets.

20 Immediately He called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went away to follow Him.

Fishers of Men - The First Disciples

Jesus confirms the reign of God on earth by His statement in Mark by telling the good news of fulfillment offering freedom from sin to those who choose to follow Him.

Christ preached hope and justice to many people who had none before this time and the message is just as clear today. We have the promise of eternal life as a result of becoming a follower of Jesus.

The Fishermen become Disciples

One misconception in this passage is that the disciples were instant believers. But, as it states in Luke and John, these fishermen may not have followed the first time they were called.

Like many of us, it took time for them to accept Christ as the Messiah and they had to grow in their faith. Even at the time of the crucifixion they were frightened as Peter denied knowing Jesus three separate times during the night. But, later he believed and stood firm in his faith all the way to death.

Have You Ever Questioned Your Faith?

I have. In fact, there are times in my life that I have doubts even though they are less significant than they once were. I now know that I am growing in my faith as I understand more about the "secret" of God. He is revealing Himself little by little in ways that I can accept.

Some people have that instant moment where they believe wholeheartedly and never look back. But some of us have to mature more slowly. If you are in the category with me don't give up. Keep following Christ and you will eventually come to know Him better.

Just remember, acceptance is only the first step. Becoming a follower takes time but know that Jesus is walking with you and guiding you in the right direction.

Finally, Fishers of Men (Women)

As Jesus proclaimed, He expected the disciples to become "fishers of men" and expects us to follow the example of those before us. The great commission says that we are to go and make new disciples - our job is to tell others the "good news" just as Peter and the others did. Let's make an effort to become "fishers of men".

Love in Christ

- Bob

Mark 1:21-45 - Jesus Teaches and Heals with Authority