When Jesus began his ministry, one of the first things he did was recruit 12 disciples to follow him. Among them were several fishermen who left their nets behind to become fishers of men. These men would go on to play a crucial role in spreading the gospel and establishing the early Christian church.
Here’s a closer look at some of Jesus’ disciples that were fishermen:
Peter
Simon Peter was a fisherman from Bethsaida who became one of Jesus’ closest companions. He is often referred to as the leader of the apostles and is mentioned more frequently in the New Testament than any other disciple. Peter was known for his impulsive nature and his tendency to speak before he thought, but he was also fiercely loyal to Jesus, even denying him three times before ultimately becoming a martyr for his faith.
Andrew
Andrew was Peter’s brother and another fisherman from Bethsaida. He was one of the first disciples Jesus called and is often credited with introducing Peter to Jesus. Andrew is mentioned several times in the New Testament but doesn’t play as prominent a role as some of the other disciples.
James and John
James and John were brothers who worked alongside their father Zebedee as fishermen in Galilee. They were known as the “Sons of Thunder” because of their fiery temperaments. James would go on to become the first apostle martyred for his faith, while John would become known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” and write several books of the New Testament.
Philip
Philip was from Bethsaida like Peter and Andrew but doesn’t seem to have been a fisherman himself. He is often depicted as a thoughtful and introspective disciple who asked Jesus many questions throughout his ministry.
Nathanael (Bartholomew)
Nathanael was a friend of Philip’s who was initially skeptical about Jesus’ claims to be the Messiah. However, after meeting Jesus in person, he became a devoted follower and is included among the list of apostles in the New Testament.
Thomas
Thomas (also known as “Doubting Thomas”) was a fisherman from Galilee who is best known for his skepticism about Jesus’ resurrection. However, he ultimately became a believer and spread the gospel to India before being martyred there.
These fishermen-turned-disciples played an integral role in spreading the gospel and establishing the early Christian church. Despite their flaws and imperfections, they were willing to leave behind their old lives and follow Jesus wherever he led them. Their example serves as an inspiration to believers today, reminding us that we too are called to be fishers of men.