Ready to Follow

Matthew 4:18-22

The Big Idea

Following Jesus means responding to his call with a willing heart, just as Simon Peter and Andrew followed him immediately.

The Bible Story

Jesus Calls His First Disciples

Matthew 4:18–22 tells how Jesus called four fishermen to follow him. First, Jesus saw Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew casting a net into the Sea of Galilee. Jesus invited them to follow him and said he would make them fishers of people. They immediately left their nets and followed him. Jesus then called James and John, who were mending nets in a boat with their father, Zebedee. They also immediately followed Jesus. This page focuses on the first response of Simon Peter and Andrew, as described in Matthew 4:20.

Themes

Immediate response Jesus calls people to follow him Leaving ordinary work and possessions to become disciples

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Show Jesus leading the way along the shore while Simon Peter and Andrew follow immediately, with their fishing net clearly left behind. The image emphasizes a generous, willing response to Jesus’s invitation.

Talk together

Talk about it

What did Simon Peter and Andrew leave behind?
What might a willing response to Jesus look like today?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page in a lesson about Jesus calling people to follow him and about responding willingly. Invite children to notice Jesus, the two fishermen, and the net left behind. Keep discussion anchored in Matthew 4:18–22 rather than adding details not stated there.

Source note