A Special Calling
When Jesus called John and his brother James to follow Him, they were working in their boat fishing. "And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him" (Mark 1:20).
Read carefully Mark 1:20 again. What important principles can we take from there about what it means to follow Jesus? See also Matt. 8:21, 22; Luke 14:26; Phil. 3:8.
John's decision to follow Jesus and leave his father's business would forever change his life. Luke gives the most detailed account of Jesus' call (Luke 5:1-11).
What verse in Luke 5:1-11 again conveys what it means to be a follower of Jesus? What, again, is the point that is being made?
No question, those who follow Jesus need to make a full and complete commitment. Jesus, as Lord of all, is owed all. Yet, He does not demand our hearts out of selfishness; no, not at all. Instead, He knows the reality of the battle that we are in, and if there is any opening, any area of self not surrendered, the evil one will take advantage and use it to try to destroy us. Thus, we need to surrender completely to the Lord.
Which John did. And thus, instead of catching fish, John spends the rest of his life catching people for the kingdom of heaven. From now on, John's mission field was the world—to carry hope and healing and the good news to those who desperately needed it. Though he would have some hard lessons to learn, because he was dedicated to Jesus, he was in a position to learn them, no matter the pain that would come. How committed are you to Jesus? Have you forsaken all for Him? How can you know where your heart truly is? What changes might you need to make?
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