Fishermen

Matthew 13:47-50, Mark 4:18-20​

Similar to other parables, Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven as a great sorting.  He uses the imagery of a great fishing net that is used to gather every kind of fish.  The net is then dragged to shore and the fish are sorted, the good are kept, and the bad are thrown out.  It is a parable of the end of the age.  The world will be judged, each person according to their works.  The righteous will go on to everlasting life, but the unrighteousness to weeping and gnashing of teeth. 

Ultimately, all have fallen short of the glory of God; it is only through the forgiveness that was purchased by Jesus Christ on Calvary that can wash away every sin and blemish, and present us as spotless before the throne of God.  It is for this reason that Jesus came, and for this reason that he called His disciples.  Two of them, Simon Peter and his brother, Andrew, were fishermen.  Jesus called to them, saying “follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”  They, along with the rest of the disciples, would begin the ministry of the church of Jesus Christ, each one a link in the great net.  They would be a witness of Jesus, and as Paul states, “we persuade men.”  The goal of the church remains: declaring the life-granting message of Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
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As individuals, we are all members of the body of Christ.  Although we all have different talents and personalities, the Christ-follower is part of fulfilling the great commission.  As we mature in Jesus Christ, our talents and resources, and the light of Jesus Christ more and more are effective in shining the glorious message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  May you be intentional and effective in fulfilling the Great Commission, and may you see the fulfillment of all of your labor.