The story of Jesus making “fishers of men” is an inspiring event where Jesus calls his first disciples to follow Him and embark on a new mission. This story is found in the Bible in the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, focusing on the moment Jesus called Simon Peter and Andrew.
Jesus Teaches from Simon’s Boat
Bible Verse: Luke 5:3
“He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.”
Jesus was at the Sea of Galilee and a crowd was gathering around him. To speak to them all, He got into Simon’s boat and asked him to push it a little away from the shore. From there, Jesus taught the people.
The Miraculous Catch of Fish
Bible Verse: Luke 5:4-6
“When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.”
After teaching, Jesus told Simon to go into deeper water and let down his nets. Simon was hesitant because they had tried all night without success. But he followed Jesus’ instructions, leading to an incredibly large catch of fish.
The Call to Follow Jesus
Bible Verse: Luke 5:10-11
“Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.’ So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.”
Amazed by the miracle, Simon and his brother Andrew were told by Jesus that they would no longer catch fish but “fish for people.” Understanding the call, they left everything behind and followed Jesus, ready to embrace their new life.
The Significance of “Fishers of Men”
This phrase symbolizes the work that Jesus’ followers would do: spreading his teachings and bringing people to know and follow God, just like catching fish in a net.