Transport back to the Sea of Galilee in Matthew 4:18-22. Discover the transformative call to discipleship and explore the themes of faith and purpose.
The Calling of the First Disciples: A Study with Matthew 4:18-22
You find yourself transported back in time, standing on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. The air is crisp, the sun warm, and you can hear the gentle lapping of waves against the boats. Imagine spotting two brothers, Simon (called Peter) and Andrew, casting a net into the sea. This scene, captured in Matthew 4:18-22, is a powerful moment of transformation and invitation. The narrative portrays an encounter that alters destinies and begins a new chapter—not just for these fishermen, but for anyone who would become a student of their journey.
Introduction
The passage Matthew 4:18-22 recounts the calling of Jesus’ first disciples. In these brief verses, a significant transition unfolds: ordinary fishermen become the nucleus of a movement that would change the world. As you explore this passage, you’ll uncover the themes of faith, obedience, and transformation. The passage reads: “As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. ‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’ At once they left their nets and followed him. Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”
Key Lessons and Themes
Lesson 1: The Radical Call to Follow
Key Verse:Â Matthew 4:19
The essence of this passage is Jesus’ command: “Come, follow me.” It’s a call to abandon one’s past, leave behind familial responsibilities, and embrace an uncertain future. This call is radical—requiring trust in something much greater than oneself.
Lesson Summary
In simple terms, Jesus invites the brothers to change the course of their lives and to commit themselves entirely to a new mission. It’s about leaving comfort and predictability for a life of purpose.
Expository Commentary
The Greek verb used for “follow” in this context implies a continuous, committed journey. It’s about alignment with Jesus’ mission. Think of it like opting into a life-long adventure with an unknown map but a trustworthy guide.
Application
This lesson encourages you to consider what you might need to leave behind to truly follow a calling. It’s about letting go in faith and stepping into the unknown with trust.
Q&A
Q1: What might be some “nets” in your own life that you feel called to leave behind?
A1: Reflect on aspects of life that might be holding you back from pursuing a higher calling—whether it’s comfort, fear, or something else.
Q2: How can understanding the radical call of Jesus shape your daily decisions?
A2:Â It can motivate you to prioritize actions that align with your values and faith.
Q3: What does obedience to a calling look like for you today?
A3: Perhaps it’s about making small, daily choices that collectively form a path toward a significant purpose.
Lesson 2: The Immediate Response of Faith
Key Verse:Â Matthew 4:20
“At once they left their nets and followed him.” The urgency of this decision underscores the importance of immediate faith-based action.
Lesson Summary
This lesson is about the immediacy of the response. Peter and Andrew didn’t hesitate or weigh pros and cons. Their response was swift and decisive, symbolizing the power of faith in action.
Expository Commentary
The term “at once” captures more than just speed; it reveals readiness and availability. This teaches the importance of being prepared to act when the moment comes—faith isn’t about procrastination but promptness.
Application
How often do you hold back, waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment? This lesson encourages acting on instinct when you believe deeply in something because sometimes the story of your life is waiting on the other side of a quick decision.
Q&A
Q1: When have you responded to a calling with similar immediacy?
A1: Recall a moment when you acted on faith rather than delay—what stirred in you then?
Q2: What holds you back from immediate action today?
A2:Â Is it fear, doubt, or an overabundance of caution? Understanding this will help you respond quicker in the future.
Q3: What could immediate faith look like in small, everyday actions?
A3:Â Consider habits or decisions that can reflect a faith-driven urgency, like offering a kind word or helping someone spontaneously.
Lesson 3: The Cost of Discipleship
Key Verse:Â Matthew 4:22
“They immediately left the boat and their father and followed him.” This demonstrates the sacrifices demanded of true discipleship.
Lesson Summary
Discipleship often involves sacrifices—leaving behind not just physical possessions, but also relationships and familiar environments. It’s about prioritizing spiritual pursuits over worldly attachments.
Expository Commentary
The act of leaving their boat and father illustrates not just physical departure, but also emotional and relational costs. The leap of faith requires not just the acceptance of Jesus, but also the willingness to embrace a new identity.
Application
This lesson calls you to examine what you might need to let go of to follow a more authentic, purposeful path. It’s a reminder that following a calling might involve tough choices that disrupt your status quo.
Q&A
Q1: Have you ever had to sacrifice something significant for your beliefs?
A1:Â Reflect on those sacrifices and how they shaped your spiritual journey.
Q2: What are the ‘boats’ and ‘fathers’ in your life that you might need to leave?
A2:Â Identify aspects or people that, though cherished, might hinder your spiritual growth.
Q3: How do you weigh the cost versus the rewards of discipleship?
A3:Â Consider the long-term fulfillment and wholeness that comes from living a life aligned with deeper values.
Lesson 4: The Purpose in Following
Key Verse:Â Matthew 4:19
“I will send you out to fish for people.” This introduces a new purpose; discipleship transforms personal mission into communal impact.
Lesson Summary
Jesus grants the fishermen a new purpose that transcends personal gain. It’s about expanding influence and aiding in the spiritual journeys of others, embodying a service-oriented mindset.
Expository Commentary
This metaphorical transformation from fishing for fish to fishing for people underscores a mission that values humanity over harvest. The disciples’ skills are repurposed for a broader, more impactful mission.
Application
Reflect on how your skills can be repurposed for the greater good. Consider daily actions where influence can shift from self-oriented to service-oriented perspectives.
Q&A
Q1: What does it mean to ‘fish for people’ in today’s world?
A1:Â It involves nurturing, supporting, and guiding others in their spiritual journeys and life goals.
Q2: How can your current skills be channeled towards helping others find their purpose?
A2:Â Look at your strengths and think about how they might uniquely benefit the community around you.
Q3: Who inspires you by living with a purpose that benefits others?
A3:Â Reflect on people whose lives align with service and the profound impact they have.
Reflection and Personal Response
“How will you respond to the truths in this passage today?” This question invites introspection about your readiness to embrace change as actively and fully as the disciples did. Consider any parts of your life where you might need to apply these lessons. Discipleship is both a calling and an ongoing commitment, challenging you to identify what steps come next on your journey.
Daily Life Reflection
“If Jesus stood before you today, how would He see your response to this teaching?” Reflect on how your current actions align with these teachings. Are there ways you can better embody these principles in your life? Think about how your day-to-day routines reflect your core beliefs and values.
A Call to Action
“What action can you take this week to show that you are walking in the light of this truth?” Evaluate practical steps you might take—be it volunteering community time, extending help to a neighbor in need, or dedicating time for reflection and realignment with your guiding values.
Prayer
As you conclude this journey with the passage, close with a prayer:
“Lord, guide us as we seek to answer and live out our callings. Grant us the strength to abandon what holds us back and the courage to embrace the unknown with faith. May our actions reflect Your love and truth. Amen.”
