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What does it mean to be fishers of men?

In Luke 5 Jesus calls his first disciples.

We can rule out one thing that Jesus didn’t mean.

Jesus wasn’t implying that you sneak up with a net gun and capture people in the name of the Lord. As funny as that might seem, chances are that you will be sued or spend a night in prison for assault.

In the simplest form, Jesus approached a group of fishermen, who later become His disciples, and called them to change priorities from fishing for a living and offered them to find a new identity in being a Jesus follower who shared the love and name of Jesus. Jesus was inviting these men into a new profession, a new identity, that was not known for pursuing fish but pursuing other people to share the Gospel.

Followers of Jesus are fishers.

Following Jesus is a call to share the love and name of Jesus to the people you come in contact with each day. 

There are three things that fishers do that Christians should adopt.

What Does It Mean to Be Fishers of Men?

Fishers Prepare

Fishers have hundreds of lures, multiple fishing poles, depth finders, boats, clothing, and nets to make the most of their fishing trips.

In the same way, Christians need to prepare for opportunities to share about Jesus. The main way that we prepare is through prayer and continuing in our own spiritual growth in Jesus. Knowing what you believe, why you believe it, and how to live out your beliefs are essential in sharing your faith in Jesus with other people. You won’t know the answer to every question that a non-Christian may have about theology. The best way to be prepared to share your faith is to be maturing in your personal spiritual disciplines. 

Fishers Pursue

Have you ever met a fisher who has a secret fishing spot? Fishers know where the fish are and they go after them. They wake up early, stay out late, or drive to the other side of the lake – all in an attempt to catch some fish. 

We need to realize that God has positioned all of us to make a difference in the classes, offices, stores, and communities that we are situated in. People are in need of the grace and forgiveness of Jesus. It is our mission to pursue them with the love and Gospel of Jesus.

Fishers Keep Fishing

Fishers don’t give up after a few casts. Fishers are patient and keep at it. They also understand that there are no guarantees that they will catch a fish. Thus, they are not called “catchers” but “fishers”.

As Jesus followers, we must remember that salvation isn’t dependent on our actions but made possible because of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Yes, there are some helpful tips, phrases, and ideas that can help you communicate the love of Jesus, but the Holy Spirit is the one who draws people to Jesus. You can’t control the increase, you are simply called to be faithful. 

The imagery of fishing that Jesus used was not to imply that sharing the Gospel should “lure” someone in and then they will be hooked against their will. Every person must make a personal decision to follow Jesus. Remember, Jesus spoke to professional fishermen and invited them into a new way of living. 

Apply: 

• When was the last time you shared your faith in Jesus with someone who doesn’t follow Jesus? 
• Are you insecure about sharing your faith? Why? 
• Who is someone that needs to hear the Gospel of Jesus? 
• Pray that God will give you the boldness to talk to that individual this week. 

Respond: 

God, that you for giving us a new life, new identity, and new purpose. We are not to build our own kingdoms. Our purpose is to build your kingdom and to bring you glory. We are unable to do this on our own. Thank you for your Holy Spirit. God, you are faithful to save. Use us to draw people closer to You. Amen.

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The F260 NT Bible reading plan and HEAR Journal method is from Replicate Ministries.