Commentary on Matthew 4:20
Verse Analysis
Matthew 4:20 states: “And they immediately left their nets, and followed him.” This passage is pivotal in understanding the call of the first disciples, highlighting their swift response to Jesus and the nature of discipleship.
Immediate Obedience
Matthew Henry's Commentary: Henry emphasizes the remarkable nature of the disciples’ immediate response. They did not deliberate or question their future but recognized the authority of Jesus and chose to follow Him without hesitation. This reflects an essential aspect of faith; true discipleship often requires prompt obedience to the call of Christ.
Albert Barnes' Notes: Barnes notes that "they left their nets" signifies not only a literal abandoning of their fishing profession but also a metaphorical leaving of their old lives. The decision to follow Jesus represents a crucial turning point—leaving behind worldly pursuits for spiritual significance. This illustrates the transformational impact of Christ's call upon His followers.
The Significance of Their Vocation
Adam Clarke's Commentary: Clarke explains that the occupation of fishing was important in biblical times. It was their livelihood, and by leaving their nets, the disciples were demonstrating an extraordinary level of faith. They abandoned their means of sustenance trusting that Christ would provide for them spiritually and materially in their new journey.
Clarke further remarks that this choice illustrates the theme of sacrifice in the call to discipleship. The call to follow Jesus often means setting aside personal ambitions for a higher purpose—serving the Kingdom of God.
The Nature of Discipleship
Contextual Understanding: The context of Matthew 4:20 reveals that Jesus had just begun His public ministry. He was calling individuals to join Him in the mission of preaching, healing, and teaching. The immediacy of their response is indicative of the authority Jesus holds—what He asks of them is compelling and transformative.
- Faith and Action: The disciples’ action of leaving their nets serves as a call to all believers to respond to Christ in faith. As emphasized by Henry, action must accompany belief if we are to truly follow Jesus.
- Community and Fellowship: Following Jesus also means entering into a community with others who share this journey. The disciples were not alone in their decision; the immediate gathering of followers signifies the importance of communal faith.
- Enduring Commitment: The nature of following Jesus entails commitment not just in the moment but over a lifetime. Their decision to leave their nets was a commitment to a path that would demand endurance and perseverance.
Theological Implications
Calling and Election: The call of the first disciples raises important theological questions regarding divine calling and human response. The immediate leaving of their nets symbolizes God’s initiative in calling His people, and the response of the disciples reflects the human obligation to respond affirmatively to that grace.
Spiritual Lessons for Believers:
- Heeding God's Call: Believers are encouraged to listen and respond to God’s call promptly, even when it requires sacrificing comforts or security.
- Trust in Divine Provision: Jesus calls to His disciples was not just spiritual but practical, suggesting that following Him would lead to greater fulfillment than their previous occupations.
- Courage to Change: This passage encourages believers to have the courage to change their life's direction when called by Christ.
Conclusion
Matthew 4:20 is more than just a call to the first disciples; it serves as a paradigm for all believers regarding the nature of following Jesus. The immediate response of the disciples sets a standard for obedience and illustrates the life-changing decision of discipleship. It invites reflection on one’s own response to God’s call, urging each believer to consider what they are willing to leave behind in order to follow Christ faithfully.
