INTRODUCTION Calling Peter, Andrew, James and John, the Lord said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matt. 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11). What lessons can be learned from this analogy?
CHARACTERISTICS A successful fisherman knows his equipment, while a fisher of men accurately handles the word of truth (Ezra 7:10; John 8:31-32; 2 Tim. 2:14-15). A successful fisherman knows his prey, while a fisher of men evidences a knowledge of mankind (Prov. 1:1-6; 1 Cor. 1:18-31; 2:14-16). A successful fisherman is patient and persistent; a fisher of men manifests these same qualities (Rom. 16:12; 1 Tim. 5:17; 2 Tim. 4:1-2).
CONTRASTS Catching physical fish requires stealth and deception; catching spiritual fish requires sincerity and truth (Eccles. 9:12; 2 Cor. 2:17; 12:14-18). Catching physical fish benefits the fisherman, not the fish; catching spiritual fish benefits both (1 Cor. 3:10-15; 9:19-23; 10:31-33).
CONCLUSION Endeavoring to become more effective fishers of men, let us recognize the need for preparation and persistence, sincerity of purpose, and a genuine concern for the souls of lost mankind.