Mat 4:18-22 | RWP | e4.org | Casting a net into the sea ( βαλλαντας αμφιβληστρον εις την θαλασσαν ). The word here for net is a casting-net (compare αμφιβαλλω in , casting on both sides). The net was thrown over the shoulder and spread into a circle ( αμφ ). In and another word occurs for nets ( δικτυα ), a word used for nets of any kind. The large drag-net ( σαγηνη ) appears in .

‏ Matthew 4:18-22

Casting a net into the sea ( βαλλαντας αμφιβληστρον εις την θαλασσαν ). The word here for net is a casting-net (compare αμφιβαλλω in Mr 1:16, casting on both sides). The net was thrown over the shoulder and spread into a circle ( αμφ ). In 4:20 and 4:21 another word occurs for nets ( δικτυα ), a word used for nets of any kind. The large drag-net ( σαγηνη ) appears in Mt 13:47.

Fishers of men ( αλεεις ανθρωπων ). Andrew and Simon were fishers by trade. They had already become disciples of Jesus (Joh 1:35-42), but now they are called upon to leave their business and to follow Jesus in his travels and work. These two brothers promptly ( ευθεως ) accepted the call and challenge of Jesus.

Mending their nets ( καταρτιζοντας τα δικτυα αυτων ). These two brothers, James and John, were getting their nets ready for use. The verb ( καταρτιζω ) means to adjust, to articulate, to mend if needed (Lu 6:40; Ro 9:22; Ga 6:1). So they promptly left their boat and father and followed Jesus. They had also already become disciples of Jesus. Now there are four who follow him steadily.