Matthew 4:20

And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.

Matthew 4:20 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 4:20 is part of the passage describing Jesus’ call to the first disciples, Simon Peter and Andrew, who were fishermen by trade. Jesus had just begun his ministry and was walking by the Sea of Galilee when he saw them casting their nets into the sea. He called out, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19, KJV). The verse records their immediate response to that call.

Meaning

The phrase “And they straightway left their nets” reveals the immediate and decisive response of Simon Peter and Andrew to Jesus’ invitation. The word “straightway” emphasizes that they did not hesitate or delay. Their nets were the means of their livelihood and their established way of life as fishermen. By leaving them at once, they abandoned their previous occupation and chose to follow Jesus, demonstrating their willingness to leave behind their comfort zone, their security, and their former way of life to embrace the call of Jesus.

Jesus’ call to become fishers of men was an invitation to discipleship. It was an opportunity to leave behind ordinary life and enter into a new purpose and mission. Jesus promised to teach them, shape them, and empower them for this new calling. By responding positively and following Jesus, they would not only learn from him but also participate in his work of proclaiming the Kingdom of God and bringing people to salvation.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in Mark 1:18 says they “forsook their nets,” reinforcing the same point of radical abandonment. The next verse, Matthew 4:22, shows James and John also leaving their boat and their father, indicating that the call to follow Jesus involved leaving even family ties and more valuable property. These accounts together model the essence of discipleship: an immediate, wholehearted commitment to follow Jesus, demonstrating that his call takes precedence over all earthly attachments.

Application

• Immediate Response: Simon Peter and Andrew’s immediate response teaches the importance of promptly obeying God’s call. When God calls us to follow him or step into a new season of life, it is crucial to respond without delay, setting aside distractions or hindrances that may impede obedience.

• Leaving the Familiar: Leaving their nets signifies the willingness to abandon familiarity and comfort. As disciples of Jesus, we may be called to let go of certain aspects of our lives, whether material possessions, sinful habits, or old mindsets that hinder growth in Christ. Following Jesus requires a willingness to step out in faith and trust his leading, even if it means leaving our comfort zones.

• Embracing a Higher Calling: Simon Peter and Andrew’s decision to follow Jesus led to a higher purpose and mission. Similarly, when we respond to Jesus’ call and become his disciples, our lives take on new meaning and significance. We are called to be fishers of men, sharing the message of salvation with others and making a difference in the lives of those around us.

• Trusting Jesus’ Guidance: Simon Peter and Andrew’s decision to follow Jesus was based on their trust in him. They recognized Jesus as their leader and were willing to submit to his authority and teaching. As disciples, we are called to trust in Jesus’ guidance, surrendering our will to his and relying on his wisdom and direction in every aspect of our lives.

Reflection

Matthew 4:20 highlights the immediate response of Simon Peter and Andrew to Jesus’ call to discipleship. Their willingness to leave their nets and follow Jesus demonstrates the importance of prompt obedience, leaving behind familiarity, embracing a higher calling, and trusting in Jesus’ guidance. May we also respond to Jesus’ call with similar readiness and commitment, following him wholeheartedly in every area of our lives.