The Fishermen Follow Jesus

Bible Study Lessons -- Matthew 4:18-22

This is the New Testament story of how Jesus met and chose His first disciples. They were Simon AKA Peter, Andrew, James and John. Learn more in this Bible study lesson about the first followers of Christ.

4:18 Now as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon who was 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 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.

How Did Jesus Choose His First Disciples?

Jesus told Peter and Andrew to leave their fishing business and become 'fishers of men,' to help others find God. Jesus was calling them away from their productive trades to be productive spiritually.

Follow by Faith

These first disciples obeyed -- This could be a lesson about faith and obedience to God as is covered many times in Scripture but I want to concentrate today on the instruction the story gives us as Christians.

What Should Christians Do?

We all need to fish for souls just like Andrew and the other disciples. If we practice Christ's teachings and share the gospel with others - or even if we only live and act in such a way that other people see Christ through us, we will be able to draw those around us to Jesus like the fisherman who pulls fish into his boat with nets.

Why Did They Follow?

... They (Peter & Andrew) were not in a hypnotic trance when they followed but had been thoroughly convinced that following Christ would change their lives forever." But what about you? Did you know that following Jesus can change your life too?

I am neither a preacher nor a scholar; just a person like you who needs God to help me through life, and I pray that you will receive Christ and experience the same joy that I have received by accepting Him as my personal Savior.

Love in Christ

- Bob

Matthew 3:1-12 - Bible Study of John The Baptist Preparing the Way for Jesus