New Testament
Matthew 4:21
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Farther down the shore, he saw two more brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, in a boat with their father, repairing their nets. He called them.
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And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.
What Matthew 4:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus continues his journey along the Sea of Galilee and encounters two brothers, James and John, who are working with their father, Zebedee. They are in a boat, repairing their fishing nets, which indicates their livelihood as fishermen. Jesus calls them to follow him, inviting them to leave their current work and embark on a new mission. This moment is significant as it marks the calling of the first disciples who would later become key figures in spreading Jesus' teachings. The act of mending nets symbolizes preparation and readiness for a new purpose, highlighting the transition from their ordinary lives to a divine calling. The relationship between the brothers and their father also reflects the importance of family ties, even as they are called to a greater mission. This verse illustrates the theme of discipleship and the willingness to leave behind familiar comforts for a higher calling.
How to apply Matthew 4:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to be open to God's call in our lives, even if it means leaving behind what is familiar. It reminds us that God can use our everyday skills and experiences for a greater purpose. We should be ready to respond to His invitation.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Calling the Fishermen (Matthew 4:18–22)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Matthew 4:21
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 4:21 mean?
Matthew 4:21 describes Jesus calling James and John, the sons of Zebedee, while they are working as fishermen with their father. This moment signifies the beginning of their discipleship, as they are invited to leave their ordinary lives to follow Jesus and participate in His mission.
What is the significance of mending nets in Matthew 4:21?
Mending nets in Matthew 4:21 symbolizes preparation and readiness for a new purpose. It highlights the transition from their daily work as fishermen to a divine calling, indicating that their skills will be used in a greater mission.
Who are the key figures mentioned in Matthew 4:21?
The key figures in Matthew 4:21 are James and John, the sons of Zebedee, and their father Zebedee. They are depicted as fishermen working together, emphasizing family ties and the call to discipleship.
What does this verse teach about discipleship?
This verse teaches that discipleship involves responding to God's call, even if it means leaving behind familiar comforts. It illustrates the willingness to embrace a new mission and purpose in life.
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