Mark 1:16-20
16 Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 17 And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” 18 And immediately they left their nets and followed him. 19 And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. 20 And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him.
Main Idea
We Are Called to Become Fishers of Men
Outline
Christ Takes the Simple Activities and Makes Them Spiritual Missions (v16)
Christ Takes the Working Men and Makes Them Spiritual Missionaries (vv17–18)
Christ Takes the Spiritually Adrift and Makes Them Spiritually Mobilized (vv.19–20)
Becoming Fishers of Men Starts Immediately (v.18a)
Becoming Fishers of Men Takes Time (v.18b)
Discussion Questions
Christ Takes the Simple Activities and Makes Them Spiritual Missions (v16)
Why do you think Jesus begins His call to disciples in the middle of everyday work rather than in a synagogue or classroom?
What are some ordinary places or routines where God may already be placing mission right in front of us?
Where has God positioned you right now, work, school, neighborhood, family for His purposes?
What might it look like to view one ordinary activity this week as a spiritual mission?
Christ Takes the Working Men and Makes Them Spiritual Missionaries (vv17–18)
Why is it significant that Jesus calls working men—not religious professionals?
What do you think it cost the disciples to leave their nets?
What might make it hard for people today to respond the same way?
What “nets” (security, identity, control, comfort) can make following Jesus feel costly?
Christ Takes the Spiritually Adrift and Makes Them Spiritually Mobilized (vv.19–20)
How would you describe the disciples before Jesus called them? How does that contrast with what they would later become?
Why do you think Jesus calls people before they fully understand what following Him will mean?
Where might you feel spiritually “adrift” or unsure right now?
How does Jesus’ call bring clarity, direction, and purpose?
Becoming Fishers of Men Starts Immediately (v.18a)
Verse 18 says they left their nets immediately. Why is urgency such a strong theme in discipleship?
What are common reasons people delay obedience to Jesus?
Is there a step of obedience God has been nudging you toward that you’ve been postponing?
What would it look like to respond immediately—without having all the details figured out?
Becoming Fishers of Men Takes Time (v.18b)
Although their response was immediate, their transformation took years. Why is this important to remember?
How does this passage help us hold together urgent obedienc and patient formation?
How can unrealistic expectations hinder long-term spiritual growth?
In what area of your life do you need patience with God’s process of growth?
As Peace Church enters a year-long journey, what does faithfulness over time look like for you?
Looking Forward
Who is one person that you feel God is calling you to be a fisher of men to this year? What could you do to be more of a light to them?
Prayer Focus
Pray for eyes to see everyday life as God’s mission field.
Pray for courage to follow Jesus even when it costs comfort or security.
Pray for hearts that respond immediately when Jesus calls.
Pray for perseverance and trust as God shapes us over time.
Pray for Peace Church to become a spiritually mobilized, gospel-centered people.
Pray for the people God is already placing in our lives who need Christ.
Pray for a deep dependence on Jesus, trusting that He is the one who shapes and forms us as we follow Him.
Pray for boldness and compassion to speak about Christ naturally in everyday relationships.
Pray for unity across Peace Church as we pursue this journey of Becoming together.
Pray for endurance and faithfulness, especially when growth feels slow or unseen.
Pray for a growing love for those who are far from God and a burden to see them come to know Christ.