Matthew 4:20

"He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers for men.”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 4:20, Jesus calls Simon Peter and his brother Andrew to follow him, promising they will become "fishers for men." For first-century listeners, this was a striking image drawn from the common practice of fishing; however, it was transformed by Jesus into an analogy for spiritual work. The term "men" (anthropoi) would have been understood in its broader sense, encompassing all people, suggesting that these fishermen would engage in the significant task of salvation and conversion, not just a commercial enterprise.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 20. Straightway. Immediately--as all should do when the Lord Jesus calls them. Left their nets. Their nets were the means of their living, perhaps all their property. By leaving them immediately, and following him, they gave every evidence of sincerity. They showed, what we should, that they were willing to forsake all fro the sake of Jesus, and to follow him wherever he should lead them. They went forth to persecution and death, for the sake of Jesus; but also to the honour of saving souls from death, and establishing a church that shall continue to the end of time.

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