“Follow Me” – The Fishermen Follow Jesus in Mark 1:14-20
In this passage from Mark 1, Jesus preaches in Galilee we learn how the fishermen follow Jesus with two words from Christ.
With these two simple words; “Follow me” these ordinary people will become forever known as the 12 disciples.
Simon and Andrew were the first chosen.
This begins the ministry of Jesus and the Christian religion which spread throughout the world.
The Fishermen Follow Jesus in Mark – How Jesus Chose The 12 Disciples
“As He was going along by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen.
And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.’
Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. Going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in the boat mending the nets.
Immediately He called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went away to follow Him.” – Mark 1:16-20 NASB
Fishers of Men – The First Disciples
Jesus confirms the reign of God on earth by His statement in Mark by telling the good news of fulfillment.And, he offers freedom from sin to those who choose to follow Him.
The Promise of Jesus Christ
Christ preached hope and justice to many people who had none before this time. And, the message is just as clear for us today.
We have the promise of eternal life as a result of becoming a follower of Jesus.
The Fishermen become Disciples
One misconception in this passage is that the disciples were all instant believers. But, as it states in Luke and John, these fishermen may not have followed the first time they were called.
Like many of us, it took time for them to accept Christ as the Messiah and they had to grow in their faith.
Even at the time of the crucifixion they were frightened.
Remember, Peter denied knowing Jesus three separate times during the night. But, after the resurrection he believed and stood firm in his faith – all the way to death.
Have You Ever Questioned Your Faith?
I have.
In fact, there are times in my life that I have doubts even though they are less significant than they once were.
I now realize that I am growing in my faith. This happens as I understand more about the “secret” of God. He is revealing Himself little by little in ways that I can accept.
This is why it is so important to read your Bible as often as you can. Just about every time I read God’s Word, there is a message for me.
God is truly amazing! And, the only way to discover who God really is, is to read what He has to say. And then, talk to Him through prayer.
Are You an “Instant Believer” ? The Fishermen Who Followed Jesus Weren’t
Some people have that instant moment where they believe wholeheartedly and never look back.
Some of us have to mature more slowly.
If you are in the second category with me don’t give up. Keep following Christ; learn more about Him through reading the Bible. And then, you will eventually come to know Him better.
Following Christ is a Process
Just remember, acceptance is only the first step. Becoming a follower takes time. But, know that Jesus is walking with you and guiding you in the right direction.
Finally, Fishers of Men (Women)
[easyazon_image align=”left” height=”160″ identifier=”0849942136″ locale=”US” src=”https://makingchristknown.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/41yxWaj3k2BL.SL160.jpg” tag=”bobpardphot-20″ width=”104″]As Jesus proclaimed, He expected the disciples to become “fishers of men“. And, He expects us to follow the example of those before us.
The great commission says that we are to go and make new disciples. So, our job is to tell others the “good news” just as Peter and the others did.
God puts people in our path all the time. When this happens, let’s make an effort to become “fishers of men“.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to find out more about the love and life-changing experience of knowing Christ, please take a moment to look at John 3:16 for more information.
==> You can read the passage about accepting Christ from John here..