Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” (Matthew 4:19)
Can you imagine being on the shore that day when Jesus said these words? Following Jesus seems like the right thing to do for us today, but what about back then? Since we know how the story plays out, we know Jesus had twelve disciples who all listened and obeyed the request to follow Jesus. Now it’s our turn.
Context: This verse is found in Matthew’s gospel just as Jesus’ ministry is beginning. It was in this moment that Jesus chose his first disciples. Simon and Andrew, his brother, were fishermen, so this invitation would have given them reason to be curious. Up to this point, fish had been their livelihood. How in the world would they fish for people, they must have wondered.
Jesus’ invitation was simple when He said, “Come.” But what it meant to follow him would be something to discover. What does it mean to follow Jesus? We’re still learning and failing when we let the trappings of the world interfere with our faith and trust.
Thankfully, Jesus told these followers he would show them. Even though we don’t have Jesus physically with us, showing us the way, we find our lessons in the gospels, the teachings of Paul, and the examples we see in the lives of those early Christ-followers.
Being a fisher of people is an interesting metaphor, but it says beautifully what Jesus wants from us. He wants us to gather other believers, share the good news, and capture the attention of people so Jesus can work in their hearts. It’s our job to fish. It’s Jesus’ job to catch and clean.
I have fond memories of fishing with my mom when I was a kid. She seemed to take delight in getting messy while maneuvering those squirmy worms on the hook. I never did master taking a fish off the hook once caught, but she was a master. And could she ever cast her rod. You could almost see the bobber in the distance. When I think of fishing for men, I can’t help but recall those treasured memories.
If worms are bait for fish, what is bait for people? Simply think about what attracted you to Jesus when you were “caught.” We can use our story to speak to the hearts of others. There are so many reasons people follow Jesus from the promise of salvation to needing a friend who is available 24/7. It just makes sense to be in a relationship with the Creator of all things, the one who rescues me from my sinfulness.
How we respond to Jesus’ invitation to follow him will determine how successful we are at fishing for men. Are you sitting on the shore waiting for instructions or is it time to go fishing? Let this memory verse inspire you today for your mission.
Let’s pray. Thank you, Lord, for inviting me to follow you and trusting me to help you gather other believers. Sometimes I feel weak and unsure of myself. Fill me with confidence in myself so I can shine for you. Help me to recognize the holy appointments you provide for me to “fish.” Give me the words to share with those who need to hear about you and your loving grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
