THE WISE FISHERMAN

In Matt. 4:19, Jesus said, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Surely this is the most important occupation in all the world. The world lies in sin and darkness. Satan is working hard to keep it that way. The only answer to this problem is the gospel of Christ, which is God’s power unto salvation to all who will believe. (Rom. 16:16). As powerful as this gospel is, it must be presented to the sinner. It cannot help him unless he hears it. It will not help him until he obeys it. Whenever men fish, they employ all their skill, get the best equipment that they can, and then go after the fish. We should use the same diligence in fishing for men. We must develop a love for the souls of the lost; we must know God’s plan of salvation, and then we must go and seek the lost.

As Christians, we all should be fishers of men. We are saved to save others. Jesus said that the branch that does not bear fruit will be cut off and cast into the fire. (Matt. 15:1-6). If Jesus had chosen to use the illustration of the fisherman, he would have said, “If you do not make a diligent effort to catch men, then you will be cast into the lake that burns with fire and brimstone.”

How well are we doing as fishers of men? How many have you brought to Christ? If we are to be fishers for the Lord, we must be sure that we use the proper equipment. We cannot afford to fish with our opinions or the opinions of others. The Bible, the gospel of Christ, is the only bait that we must use, and we must use it in its purity. It must not be perverted. Only the truth can make men free. (John 8:32) Let us awake from our sleep. Let us have a genuine interest in the work of the Lord. Let’s go fishing!!