In Matthew 4 How Does The Calling Of The Disciples Reflect The Nature Of True Discipleship?
The Calling of the First Disciples: A Window into True Discipleship
The story of Jesus calling His first disciples in Matthew 4 is not just a historical account—it's a profound lesson about the very nature of following Christ. This passage, found in Matthew 4:18-22, gives us a vivid illustration of what it means to be a disciple.
The Biblical Account
And walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brethren, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left the nets, and followed him. - Matthew 4:18-20 ASV
And going on from thence he saw two other brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they straightway left the boat and their father, and followed him. - Matthew 4:21-22 ASV
Key Elements of Discipleship Seen in Matthew 4
1. The Initiative of Jesus
Notice that it is Jesus who initiates the call. The disciples did not seek out Jesus; He sought them. This reflects the biblical truth that God is the one who draws us to Himself. Salvation and discipleship both begin with God's gracious initiative (John 6:44).
No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him... - John 6:44 ASV
2. Immediate and Total Response
Both pairs of brothers responded "straightway" (immediately). Their response was not casual or delayed. It was decisive. True discipleship means responding to Jesus above all other priorities. They left their nets, boats, and even family—everything that previously defined them and gave them security.
And they straightway left the nets, and followed him. - Matthew 4:20 ASV
3. Radical Reorientation of Life
Jesus calls them to a new purpose: "I will make you fishers of men." Discipleship involves a redefinition of one's life mission. Their former occupation was still valuable, but Jesus gave it a kingdom purpose. Following Him meant embracing a new identity and mission aligned with God's redemptive plan.
And he saith unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you fishers of men. - Matthew 4:19 ASV
4. Cost and Commitment
The disciples left behind their livelihood and family ties. True discipleship often involves sacrifice. Elsewhere, Jesus would say:
If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. - Matthew 16:24 ASV
This reinforces that following Christ is costly, but it is the path to true life.
The Ongoing Call to All Believers
The nature of discipleship seen in Matthew 4 is not limited to the first disciples. Jesus' call to "follow me" is extended to all who trust in Him. Salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), but true faith is always accompanied by a willingness to follow Jesus wherever He leads.
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV
Summary and Application
- Discipleship begins with Jesus' initiative and call.
- The response must be immediate, wholehearted, and prioritized above all else.
- Following Jesus means embracing a new purpose and identity.
- There is a cost to discipleship, but it leads to true life and participation in God's mission.
The calling of the disciples in Matthew 4 is a model for every believer. May we hear, respond, and follow Him with the same faith and devotion.