Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
Matthew 4:19
Here are seven observations suggested by Jesus’ analogy of fishing.
1. Some people are really good at fishing, but anyone can do it.
You don’t have to know much about fishing to catch a fish, and God gives some people special gifts of evangelism, but every Christian can play a part in drawing other people to Jesus.
2. Fishing requires great patience.
You throw out a line or a net, and then you wait. Many of us have loved ones who we long to see won to Christ. Fishing requires great patience.
3. Fishing teaches how to deal with discouragement.
The disciples had toiled all night, and they caught nothing (Luke 5:5). Anyone who enjoys fishing has a story like this. You haven’t caught anything today? Get up early and go out again tomorrow.
4. Christ invites us to come fishing, not go hunting.
Some Christians sound more like hunters than fishers. But there is an art to fishing, and Peter gives us wise counsel: speak with gentleness and respect (1 Pet. 3:15).
5. The church is a fishing boat, not a pleasure boat.
It’s easier to have a ministry that is about ourselves. But Jesus does not say, “Follow me and I will take you on a delightful cruise.” He says, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
6. Fishing is hard and sometimes dangerous work.
Have you seen the television programme Deadliest Catch? Fishing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Read the book of Acts and you will see that pioneer evangelism is up there too. The best fishing is often done in the most difficult waters.
7. There’s great joy in catching fish.
Have you ever seen someone looking miserable about a fish they just caught? Of course not! Catching fish is fun, and there is far greater joy in seeing a person come to faith in Jesus.
Which of these observations is most helpful to you?
