Introduction
Matthew 4 marks a pivotal point in Jesus’ life, transitioning from His preparation in the wilderness to the beginning of His public ministry and calling of the disciples. After overcoming temptation, Jesus moves to Galilee, where He preaches repentance, calls His first disciples, and begins healing the sick. This chapter introduces the core elements of Jesus’ ministry—preaching, teaching, and healing—while laying the foundation for discipleship. In this blog, we explore how Jesus called His first followers and set the example for Christian ministry.
1. The Move to Galilee and the Message of Repentance (Matthew 4:12-17)
After hearing of John the Baptist’s arrest, Jesus relocates to Galilee to begin His ministry. This move fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah, revealing that Jesus’ presence in Galilee was divinely ordained.
“Leaving Nazareth, He came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali” (Matthew 4:13, NKJV).
From the start of His ministry, Jesus’ message echoes John the Baptist’s call for repentance. His teaching emphasizes the arrival of the Kingdom of Heaven and the need for personal transformation.
2. Jesus Calls His First Disciples (Matthew 4:18-22)
As Jesus walks along the Sea of Galilee, He calls His first disciples—Peter, Andrew, James, and John—by inviting them to follow Him and become “fishers of men.”
“Then He said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ They immediately left their nets and followed Him” (Matthew 4:19-20, NKJV).
This moment highlights the radical call to discipleship. The fishermen leave their livelihoods behind, demonstrating the sacrifice and commitment required to follow Jesus. Their willingness to respond without hesitation underscores the importance of immediate and wholehearted obedience to Christ’s call.
3. The Nature of Discipleship: Following and Learning from Jesus
Jesus’ call to “follow Me” is the essence of discipleship. It is an invitation to not only learn from Jesus but also to live out His teachings. The first disciples are called into a personal relationship with Jesus, where they will learn by observing His life and listening to His teachings.
“So they immediately left the boat and their father, and followed Him” (Matthew 4:22, NKJV).
This personal connection with Jesus is what sets Christian discipleship apart. It is more than acquiring knowledge; it is about transformation through relationship.
4. The Early Teachings of Jesus (Matthew 4:23)
As Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee, He preaches the gospel of the Kingdom, teaching in synagogues and proclaiming the good news to the people.
“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people” (Matthew 4:23, NKJV).
Jesus’ teaching centers on the Kingdom of Heaven, calling people to repent and turn to God. His message is both challenging and hopeful, offering salvation to all who believe.
5. Healing the Sick: A Sign of the Kingdom (Matthew 4:24-25)
In addition to teaching and preaching, Jesus begins performing miraculous healings, restoring sight to the blind, healing the lame, and casting out demons. His healing ministry serves as a sign of the Kingdom’s power and the compassion of God.
“Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments” (Matthew 4:24, NKJV).
Jesus’ miracles confirm His authority and reveal the power of the Kingdom to bring physical and spiritual healing.
6. The Growing Influence of Jesus’ Ministry (Matthew 4:25)
As news of Jesus’ miracles spreads, large crowds begin to follow Him from across the region. These crowds, drawn by His teachings and miracles, represent the growing influence of Jesus’ ministry.
“Great multitudes followed Him—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan” (Matthew 4:25, NKJV).
This growing movement shows the far-reaching impact of Jesus’ message and the Kingdom of God. His ministry is not limited to a specific group but extends to all people.
7. The Role of Disciples in Jesus’ Mission
As Jesus begins to gather His disciples, He prepares them for the role they will play in His mission. They are not merely observers; they will be active participants in spreading the gospel and continuing the work of healing and teaching.
Jesus’ invitation to “follow Me” is a call to join Him in the mission of the Kingdom. As disciples, they will learn not only from His words but from His actions, ultimately being empowered to carry on His ministry after His ascension.
Conclusion
Matthew 4 introduces the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and the calling of His first disciples. Through His teachings, preaching, and healing, Jesus lays the foundation for His mission and the role of discipleship. The chapter emphasizes the importance of responding to Jesus’ call with immediate and wholehearted obedience. As believers, we are invited to follow Jesus, learn from His life, and participate in His mission of spreading the Kingdom of God to the world.
