Matthew 4:18-25 – The Calling Of The First Disciples

The Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry

In the beginning of Matthew 4, we see Jesus being led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. After successfully resisting the devil’s temptations, Jesus begins his public ministry. Matthew 4:18-25 tells the story of how Jesus called his first disciples.

Jesus Calls Simon and Andrew

As Jesus walked along the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon and Andrew, casting their nets into the water. Jesus called out to them, saying, “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Without hesitation, Simon and Andrew left their nets and followed Jesus.

Jesus Calls James and John

Continuing along the shore, Jesus saw two other brothers, James and John, mending their nets with their father, Zebedee. Jesus called out to them, and they immediately left their father and followed Jesus.

The Significance of the Call

The calling of the first disciples is significant for several reasons. First, it shows how Jesus chose ordinary men to be his followers. Simon, Andrew, James, and John were not educated or wealthy, yet Jesus saw potential in them. Second, the call of the disciples shows the importance of obedience to Jesus’ call. When Jesus called them, they didn’t hesitate or make excuses. They simply followed him. Third, the call of the disciples shows that Jesus’ ministry was not just for the religious elite but for all people. He chose fishermen as his first disciples, not priests or scholars.

The Mission of the Disciples

Jesus told Simon and Andrew that he would make them fishers of men. This statement means that they would become evangelists, spreading the good news of Jesus to others. The mission of the disciples was to share the message of salvation with the world.

The Healing Ministry of Jesus

After calling his first disciples, Jesus began a healing ministry that would change the lives of many people. Matthew 4:23-24 tells us that Jesus went throughout Galilee, healing all kinds of diseases and sicknesses among the people. News of his healing power spread throughout the region, and people began to follow him.

Jesus’ Popularity Grows

As word of Jesus’ healing ministry spread, large crowds began to gather around him. People came from all over to see Jesus and be healed of their ailments. Matthew 4:25 tells us that people came from as far away as Syria to see Jesus.

The Importance of Faith

The healing ministry of Jesus shows the importance of faith in our lives. Those who came to Jesus for healing had faith that he could heal them. Jesus often commended people for their faith and told them that their faith had made them well.

The Message of the Gospel

The story of Jesus calling his first disciples and beginning his healing ministry is a powerful message of the gospel. It shows that Jesus came to save all people, regardless of their social status or background. It also shows the importance of obedience and faith in following Jesus.

Conclusion

In Matthew 4:18-25, we see the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and the calling of his first disciples. The story shows how Jesus chose ordinary men to be his followers and how their obedience and faith led to a powerful healing ministry. This story is a reminder that Jesus came to heal and save all people and that our faith and obedience are crucial in following him.