Three Callings: Matthew 4:18-22
“18) Now as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon who was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. 19) And He *said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20) Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. 21) Going on from there He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and He called them. 22) Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.” Matthew 4:18-22
Jesus began His public ministry by calling His first disciples. Verse 19 tells us there were three parts to His calling. Let’s look at each briefly because they apply to you and me as well.
First is our calling to God. This includes both salvation and intimacy with God. It is very important to understand that God wants you and me to seek Him first and foremost. He wants us to grow in our walk and relationship with Him. Everything that follows is built in this relationship. This is a lifelong calling.
Second is our calling to personal growth. Jesus promises to build us. The Christian life is the beginning of a life of growth and development. God will use every trial and every circumstance to produce growth within us. It is important to know that we grow as we go. He wants to work deeply in us so he can work greatly through us!
Third is our calling for God! Jesus promised to make them fishers of men. This is where God wants to work through us to impact many other people and influence the world. The problem is that many people get so busy “for God” they begin to neglect their calling “to God!” Personal burnout is a danger to anyone who gets so busy they neglect to spend time with God.
Let me make another observation. Did you notice He promised to make them fishers of men. The word fishers is plural. It means Jesus wants to build a team. We are not in ministry alone. The Christian life is a team sport. God wants us to work together with others. The load is easier when many people carry it. Do not become isolated in your Christian calling.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
