As the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ began, immediately after the temptation by the devil (Matthew 4), one of the first things Jesus does is to call disciples to follow Him. As they are called, He assures them they will become extra-ordinary men as they follow and serve Him. The first four men chosen were fishermen. He promises them that while they have natural skills of fishing for fish, he will give them the spiritual skills so they can fish effectively for the souls of people. Jesus introduces them to the concept of reproduction. In order for them to learn this concept and implement it will require instruction, demonstration and training. The words are significant when Jesus says to the first four men he chooses, fishermen by occupation, as you follow Me, "I will make you fishers of men." It is the process of learning how to develop the skills and gifts to effectively reach their generation for Jesus Christ. There will be and are many lessons to learn, but The Rabbi, the Master Teacher has committed Himself to that particular task of fashioning them into all of what He wants them to be. The task will be challenging, sometimes daunting, and the opposition to their learned skills great. They will need tenacity if they are to reach the vast cross-sections of people in their day. Jesus Christ is convinced they have proven their tenacity from their years of fishing for fish. He is confident they will have that same determination to reach the lost with His Gospel.
Why did Jesus Christ select those who would become His disciples and apostles? Did they have the unique skill sets for the work of a disciple? Did they have special gifts that Jesus saw and that He wanted to expand in them? What was it that made Peter, Andrew, James and John to immediately respond to the call of Jesus Christ? What would happen to the family fishing business? What about parental permission and their employees - should they have been consulted them about this major change taking place?
One of the things we notice in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, is who He seeks out and those whom He calls for special ministry tasks. More often than not, He chooses people from among the unworthy, unqualified and broken. He seeks out the less prominent rather than the celebrity types. The "little people" who have been passed by so often will have opportunity to follow The Savior and learn from Him. He alone would - will - transform them into useful vessels of honor who will bring glory to Him.
Who did Jesus decide to choose and why did He choose them? We note in Mark 3:13, "Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him." Later on in His ministry with them, Jesus reminds the disciples, John 15:16, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit-fruit that will last-and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you." Jesus is still seeking those who will serve Him and bear fruit for Him? Could it be that He is wanting you to respond affirmatively to Him?
Prayerfully - consider these things with me.
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