Matthew 4:18-20
18 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.
19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
20 At once they left their nets and followed him.
Matthew 4:18-20: Verse-by-Verse Analysis
In verse 18, we see Jesus walking by the Sea of Galilee and encountering two brothers, Simon Peter and Andrew, who were fishermen. This sets the scene for Jesus calling his first disciples.
Verse 19 is where Jesus extends the invitation to Simon Peter and Andrew to follow him. The phrase “Come, follow me” is a powerful call to discipleship, indicating that they are to leave their current way of life and follow Jesus in his ministry.
The significance of Jesus’ words in verse 19, “and I will send you out to fish for people,” is that he is commissioning Simon Peter and Andrew to become fishers of men. This metaphorical language emphasizes the importance of spreading the message of the Gospel and bringing others to faith.
Verse 20 shows the immediate response of Simon Peter and Andrew to Jesus’ call. They leave their nets, symbolizing their willingness to leave behind their livelihood and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. This demonstrates their faith and commitment to Jesus as their Lord and teacher.