Read Matthew 4:19 and Mark 1:17 in the context of Matthew 28:19. What significance do you see in the fact that the first recorded command of Jesus was " 'Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men' "? What should those words mean to us today as Seventh-day Adventists with our understanding of the three angels' messages? How much "fishing for men" are we really doing as opposed to just "tending to our own boats"?

The call of Jesus was a call to discipleship. Jesus called fishermen , fishing was their profession. Jesus wanted to turn fishermen into fishers of men. Discipleship and evangelistic training go hand and hand. The great commission encourages us to teach others what Jesus taught. Jesus taught his disciples to win souls.

Sometimes church is just about maintaining. Jesus’ church was not about maintaining but it was about training and equipping for ministry. Seventh-day Adventists have been called to spread the everlasting gospel. We must actively seek to develop disciples for Christ who will also get more disciples for Christ.

Prayer: Lord God Almighty, please help us to truly follow you and become fishers of men and train other fishers of men. Thank you in Jesus name amen.