Read Mt 4.18-22, Mk 1.16-20, Lk 5.1-11
Now as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon who was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And He *said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."
(Matthew 4:18-19)
We know from the Gospel of John chapter 1 that Jesus already knew these two brothers. Andrew was introduced to Jesus by John the Baptist. And in turn Andrew introduces his brother Peter to Jesus. These early relationships would be crucial on three separate occasions. This was the first. A formal call to follow the rabbi.
You never know where a relationship will end up. Some are casual and remain so. Others may change the world. As we are ministering to people our objective is help them grow in their relationship with Christ. But some people will be future leaders for the Kingdom. There is a big difference between laborers and leaders. Laborers are in the business of helping people the way Jesus did and leaders are in the business of training laborers the way Jesus did. If you are not looking for potential leaders as a disciplemaker you will ultimately run out of resources and will be constrained to a ministry of addition. The chances of the ministry living beyond your generation are slim. Leaders, not only multiply laborers but future generations of leaders. As you are involved in helping people, keep your eyes open for those who are willing and able to lead. Give them special attention in their development and multiply yourself for the next generation. As you labor keep looking for leaders. If you want to be a leader in the Kingdom, get trained by someone you know is able to produce laborers and leaders for Christ. (Heb 13.7)
For questions or comments drop me a line at charleswood1@gmail.com
