The Calling of the First Disciples

Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee when he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and Andrew his brother (Matthew 4:18). These men were casting a net into the sea, as the text identifies them as fishermen. Jesus spoke to them, stating that they should follow him and he would make them fishers of men (Matthew 4:19). Upon hearing this command, the two brothers immediately left their nets and followed him (Matthew 4:20).

Moving further from that location, Jesus saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother (Matthew 4:21). These men were in a boat with their father, Zebedee, where they were mending their nets. Jesus called them as well. The text does not say what words he used to call this second pair of brothers, nor does it record any verbal response from them (Matthew 4:21-22).

Immediately after the call, James and John left the boat and their father to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:22). The text does not say where they went or what Zebedee did after his sons departed. The narrative focuses exclusively on the transition of these four men from their occupation as fishermen to followers of Jesus.