EGW WritingsMatthew 4

Our Father Cares

How to Make an Impact, September 3

OFC 258.2

When Christ was upon this earth, He did not direct fishermen to leave their nets and boats, and go to the Jewish teachers to gain a preparation for the gospel ministry. Walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw “two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him” (Matthew 4:18-22).

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 25—The Call by the Sea

DA 244.1

Day was breaking over the Sea of Galilee. The disciples, weary with a night of fruitless toil, were still in their fishing boats on the lake. Jesus had come to spend a quiet hour by the waterside. In the early morning He hoped for a little season of rest from the multitude that followed Him day after day. But soon the people began to gather about Him. Their numbers rapidly increased, so that He was pressed upon all sides. Meanwhile the disciples had come to land. In order to escape the pressure of the multitude, Jesus stepped into Peter’s boat, and bade him pull out a little from the shore. Here Jesus could be better seen and heard by all, and from the boat He taught the multitude on the beach.

DA 244.2

What a scene was this for angels to contemplate; their glorious Commander, sitting in a fisherman’s boat, swayed to and fro by the restless waves, and proclaiming the good news of salvation to the listening throng that were pressing down to the water’s edge! He who was the Honored of heaven was declaring the great things of His kingdom in the open air, to the common people. Yet He could have had no more fitting scene for His labors. The lake, the mountains, the spreading fields, the sunlight flooding the earth, all furnished objects to illustrate His lessons and impress them upon the mind. And no lesson of Christ’s fell fruitless. Every message from His lips came to some soul as the word of eternal life.

DA 245.1

Every moment added to the multitude upon the shore. Aged men leaning upon their staffs, hardy peasants from the hills, fishermen from their toil on the lake, merchants and rabbis, the rich and learned, old and young, bringing their sick and suffering ones, pressed to hear the words of the divine Teacher. To such scenes as this the prophets had looked forward, and they wrote:

DA 245.2

“The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali,
Toward the sea, beyond Jordan,
Galilee of the Gentiles,
The people which sat in darkness
Saw a great light,
And to them which sat in the region and shadow of death,
To them did light spring up.” R. V.

DA 245.3

Beside the throng on the shores of Gennesaret, Jesus in His sermon by the sea had other audiences before His mind. Looking down the ages, He saw His faithful ones in prison and judgment hall, in temptation and loneliness and affliction. Every scene of joy and conflict and perplexity was open before Him. In the words spoken to those gathered about Him, He was speaking also to these other souls the very words that would come to them as a message of hope in trial, of comfort in sorrow, and heavenly light in darkness. Through the Holy Spirit, that voice which was speaking from the fisherman’s boat on the Sea of Galilee, would be heard speaking peace to human hearts to the close of time.

DA 245.4

The discourse ended, Jesus turned to Peter, and bade him launch out into the sea, and let down his net for a draught. But Peter was disheartened. All night he had taken nothing. During the lonely hours he had thought of the fate of John the Baptist, who was languishing alone in his dungeon. He had thought of the prospect before Jesus and His followers, of the ill success of the mission to Judea, and the malice of the priests and rabbis. Even his own occupation had failed him; and as he watched by the empty nets, the future had seemed dark with discouragement. “Master,” he said, “we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at Thy word I will let down the net.”

DA 246.1

Night was the only favorable time for fishing with nets in the clear waters of the lake. After toiling all night without success, it seemed hopeless to cast the net by day; but Jesus had given the command, and love for their Master moved the disciples to obey. Simon and his brother together let down the net. As they attempted to draw it in, so great was the quantity of fish enclosed that it began to break. They were obliged to summon James and John to their aid. When the catch was secured, both the boats were so heavily laden that they were in danger of sinking.

DA 246.2

But Peter was unmindful now of boats or lading. This miracle, above any other he had ever witnessed, was to him a manifestation of divine power. In Jesus he saw One who held all nature under His control. The presence of divinity revealed his own unholiness. Love for his Master, shame for his own unbelief, gratitude for the condescension of Christ, above all, the sense of his uncleanness in the presence of infinite purity, overwhelmed him. While his companions were securing the contents of the net, Peter fell at the Saviour’s feet, exclaiming, “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”

DA 246.3

It was the same presence of divine holiness that had caused the prophet Daniel to fall as one dead before the angel of God. He said, “My comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength.” So when Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he exclaimed, “Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.” Daniel 10:8; Isaiah 6:5. Humanity, with its weakness and sin, was brought in contrast with the perfection of divinity, and he felt altogether deficient and unholy. Thus it has been with all who have been granted a view of God’s greatness and majesty.

DA 246.4

Peter exclaimed, “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man;” yet he clung to the feet of Jesus, feeling that he could not be parted from Him. The Saviour answered, “Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.” It was after Isaiah had beheld the holiness of God and his own unworthiness that he was entrusted with the divine message. It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and dependence upon divine power that he received the call to his work for Christ.

DA 246.5

Until this time none of the disciples had fully united as colaborers with Jesus. They had witnessed many of His miracles, and had listened to His teaching; but they had not entirely forsaken their former employment. The imprisonment of John the Baptist had been to them all a bitter disappointment. If such were to be the outcome of John’s mission, they could have little hope for their Master, with all the religious leaders combined against Him. Under the circumstances it was a relief to them to return for a short time to their fishing. But now Jesus called them to forsake their former life, and unite their interests with His. Peter had accepted the call. Upon reaching the shore, Jesus bade the three other disciples, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left all, and followed Him.

DA 249.1

Before asking them to leave their nets and fishing boats, Jesus had given them the assurance that God would supply their needs. The use of Peter’s boat for the work of the gospel had been richly repaid. He who is “rich unto all that call upon Him,” has said, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over.” Romans 10:12; Luke 6:38. In this measure He had rewarded the disciple’s service. And every sacrifice that is made in His ministry will be recompensed according to “the exceeding riches of His grace.” Ephesians 3:20; 2:7.

DA 249.2

During that sad night on the lake, when they were separated from Christ, the disciples were pressed hard by unbelief, and weary with fruitless toil. But His presence kindled their faith, and brought them joy and success. So it is with us; apart from Christ, our work is fruitless, and it is easy to distrust and murmur. But when He is near, and we labor under His direction, we rejoice in the evidence of His power. It is Satan’s work to discourage the soul; it is Christ’s work to inspire with faith and hope.

DA 249.3

The deeper lesson which the miracle conveyed for the disciples is a lesson for us also,—that He whose word could gather the fishes from the sea could also impress human hearts, and draw them by the cords of His love, so that His servants might become “fishers of men.”

DA 249.4

They were humble and unlearned men, those fishers of Galilee; but Christ, the light of the world, was abundantly able to qualify them for the position for which He had chosen them. The Saviour did not despise education; for when controlled by the love of God, and devoted to His service, intellectual culture is a blessing. But He passed by the wise men of His time, because they were so self-confident that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity, and become colaborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of those who will become unobstructed channels for the communication of His grace. The first thing to be learned by all who would become workers together with God is the lesson of self-distrust; then they are prepared to have imparted to them the character of Christ. This is not to be gained through education in the most scientific schools. It is the fruit of wisdom that is obtained from the divine Teacher alone.

DA 250.1

Jesus chose unlearned fishermen because they had not been schooled in the traditions and erroneous customs of their time. They were men of native ability, and they were humble and teachable,—men whom He could educate for His work. In the common walks of life there is many a man patiently treading the round of daily toil, unconscious that he possesses powers which, if called into action, would raise him to an equality with the world’s most honored men. The touch of a skillful hand is needed to arouse those dormant faculties. It was such men that Jesus called to be His colaborers; and He gave them the advantage of association with Himself. Never had the world’s great men such a teacher. When the disciples came forth from the Saviour’s training, they were no longer ignorant and uncultured. They had become like Him in mind and character, and men took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus.

DA 250.2

It is not the highest work of education to communicate knowledge merely, but to impart that vitalizing energy which is received through the contact of mind with mind, and soul with soul. It is only life that can beget life. What privilege, then, was theirs who for three years were in daily contact with that divine life from which has flowed every life-giving impulse that has blessed the world! Above all his companions, John the beloved disciple yielded himself to the power of that wondrous life. He says, “The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.” “Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.” 1 John 1:2; John 1:16.

DA 250.3

In the apostles of our Lord there was nothing to bring glory to themselves. It was evident that the success of their labors was due only to God. The lives of these men, the characters they developed, and the mighty work that God wrought through them, are a testimony to what He will do for all who are teachable and obedient.

DA 250.4

He who loves Christ the most will do the greatest amount of good. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, by putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels. If men in humble life were encouraged to do all the good they could do, if restraining hands were not laid upon them to repress their zeal, there would be a hundred workers for Christ where now there is one.

DA 251.1

God takes men as they are, and educates them for His service, if they will yield themselves to Him. The Spirit of God, received into the soul, will quicken all its faculties. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the mind that is devoted unreservedly to God develops harmoniously, and is strengthened to comprehend and fulfill the requirements of God. The weak, vacillating character becomes changed to one of strength and steadfastness. Continual devotion establishes so close a relation between Jesus and His disciple that the Christian becomes like Him in mind and character. Through a connection with Christ he will have clearer and broader views. His discernment will be more penetrative, his judgment better balanced. He who longs to be of service to Christ is so quickened by the life-giving power of the Sun of Righteousness that he is enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God.

DA 251.2

Men of the highest education in the arts and sciences have learned precious lessons from Christians in humble life who were designated by the world as unlearned. But these obscure disciples had obtained an education in the highest of all schools. They had sat at the feet of Him who spoke as “never man spake.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 27, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 27, 1910, par. 8

“And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishers. And He saith unto them, Follow Me; and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed Him. And going on from thence, He saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and He called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed Him.” [Matthew 4:18-22.]

25LtMs, Ms 27, 1910, par. 9

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with diverse diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those which had the palsy, and he healed them. And there followed Him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.” [Verses 23-25.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Fishers of Men, April 29

AG 127.1

And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19.

From Splendor to Shadow

Steps That Led to Apostasy

SS 34.2

The sharp contrast between the spirit and motives of the people building the wilderness tabernacle and of those erecting Solomon’s temple has a lesson of deep significance. Today selfishness rules the world. Seeking the highest position and the highest wage is rife. The joyous self-denial of the tabernacle workers is seldom met with. But this is the only spirit that should actuate the followers of Jesus. To those to whom He said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19) He offered no stated sum as a reward for their services. They were to share His self-denial and sacrifice.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 5, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 5, 1877, par. 25

Christ said to Peter, “Follow Me. I will make you a fisher of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] It was as difficult for Peter to change his natural inclination and love for boats and for the water as it is for you. He had followed fishing for a living thus far during his lifetime. And frequently his love for boats and for the water called him from his Saviour’s side to his favorite occupation, but he would come from his boat disappointed and weary, for he had taken no fish. The Lord did not prosper Peter in this.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 54a, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 54a, 1894, par. 32

The Lord Jesus was calling them as He called the humble fishermen in Galilee, saying, “Follow Me.” [Matthew 4:19.] Hearts were softened and subdued. Tears were in the eyes of many. Not only believers, but unbelievers, were affected to tears. After I had spoken fifty minutes, Brother McCullagh spoke right to the point; then Willie and Brother Hickox called upon them all to see what they could do toward erecting a meetinghouse.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 67, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 67, 1894, par. 25

When Christ is by the side of His tried and tempted ones, there can be no such a thing as failure, loss, impossibility, or defeat, for we can do all things through Him who strengtheneth us. We must know the truth which is revealed in Christ in all its completeness. It is perilous to turn from the truth because you cannot discern how you are to make a success of your business and obtain a livelihood. Jesus lives, and because He lives, we shall live also. He said to the fishermen, “Leave your nets, and come and follow me.” He said to Matthew sitting at the receipt of custom, “Follow me.” [Matthew 4:19; 9:9.] Did those who were invited by Christ to follow Him hesitate? Did they tarry, and with trembling faith inquire, “How shall I live, and support my family?” They were obedient to the call, and after they had followed the directions of Christ, He inquired, “When I sent you out without purse or script, lacked ye anything?” They answered, “Nothing Lord.” [Luke 22:35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 47, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 47, 1895, par. 72

Mark the features of Christ’s work. He moved in the greatest simplicity. Although His followers were fishermen, He did not advise them to first go into the school of the rabbis before entering upon the work. He called His disciples from their fishers’ nets, and said, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] He called Matthew from the receipt of custom, and said, “Follow me.” [Matthew 9:9.] All that they were required to do was to follow Jesus, to do as He commanded them, and thus enter into His school where God could be their teacher. As long as time shall last we shall have need of schools. There will always be need for education, but we must be careful lest education shall absorb every spiritual interest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 10a, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 10a, 1895, par. 80

Mark the features of Christ’s work. He moved in the greatest simplicity. Although His followers were fishermen, He did not advise them to go first into the school of the rabbis before entering upon the work. He called His disciples from their fishers’ nets, and said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] He called Matthew from the receipt of customs, and said, “Follow Me.” [Matthew 9:9.] All that they were required to do was to follow Jesus, to do as He commanded them, and thus enter into His school, where God could be their teacher. As long as time shall last, we shall have need of schools. There will always be need of education; but we must be careful lest education shall absorb every spiritual interest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 26, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 26, 1898, par. 2

The lessons of Christ were to be repeated by His disciples. Simon, Andrew, James, and John had been called by Christ to forsake their nets and follow Him, and the promise was given them, “I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] Those uneducated peasants of Galilee were to fulfill the divine commission. Christ’s lessons were to be carried to all peoples, nations, and tongues.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 179, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 179, 1898, par. 19

The Lord Jesus estimates the value of the fishermen employed with their nets. He says, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] All who follow Christ possess a dignity of intelligence because they are learning of Christ and being formed in the image of God. In every place God has His chosen ones who are very much interested in the things which concern the work of the kingdom of God, while these things of eternal interest set very lightly upon others, making but little impression on heart and character.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 109, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 109, 1899, par. 18

We cannot possibly serve God and mammon. We must choose for ourselves either one or the other. When Christ spoke to Peter, James, and John, saying, “Follow me,” they obeyed, not questioning whether it was for their temporal interest to do this. [Matthew 4:19.] How essential it is that those to whom the Lord speaks have faith in Him, and are obedient. The Lord knows what is best for us, and we are never to reason in regard to personal advantage.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 76, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 76, 1900, par. 1

We must walk with God, else we shall have as our companion Satan, who will lead us wherever he pleases. “Follow me,” is the invitation of Christ, “and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] These are wonderful words. No man can work in catching men unless Jesus Christ works in and through him.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]

MR No. 1436—The High Honor of Being a Child of God

20MR 61.4

Christ did not merely give us directions as to the path in which we must travel, but He came to be our teacher. He did not merely tell us how we ought to obey, but in His own life He gave us a practical example of how we should obey. Thus He is the true Helper. Going before us, He beats down the obstructions, and tells us to walk in His footsteps. Our blessed Saviour says, Follow Me; I will lead you; I am the way, the truth, and the life. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness. [See Matthew 4:19; John 14:6; 8:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 151, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 151, 1904, par. 19

He called the fishermen, and He said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] That was the order—He wanted to educate and train them to be fishers of men. And He could see that they would bring the sick, and He would heal every one of them, and after He had labored all day, they would keep bringing them—keep bringing them into the night hours—and He had no time for rest. But when He could get a little time, what did the disciples hear? He would go a little apart from them, and then He would pour out His soul to His Father, to give strength and power that He might endure in His humanity the very work that was united with His divinity, so that He could heal the sick and the suffering ones, wherever He might find them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 256, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, par. 1

A departure from the faith has been working in you for a long time because you would not heed the words of Christ sent to you from the Lord to save your soul. “Follow Me.” Matthew 4:19. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. “As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Romans 8:14. “If any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.” V. 9. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 128, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 128, 1905, par. 2

Christ continues, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Verses 14-16.] Christ had recently called fishermen from their boats, saying, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] He was to be their teacher. From Him they were to receive instruction that would encourage and support them in all the trials they would have to bear. Their patient forbearance under provocation would make them a surprise and a wonder to the world. He purposed to give them an education that would make them a great blessing in the world. In ages past there had been men who had been as lights in the time in which they lived. These men were called of God, as Christ had called the fishermen; and they were to those with whom they associated as salt, keeping the world from destruction by revealing the goodness, wisdom, and virtue of true piety.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 187, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 187, 1905, par. 30

We have one of the greatest works to do, and we are to fashion ourselves to do it. We are not to buy and sell and get gain as though that were our business. “Follow me,” says Christ, “and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] All around here is a community to be warned. You can see souls that are around here, and you can speak to them. You can let your light flash forth. You can be kind and tender and pitiful. God calls upon you to have the sweetness of the Spirit of Christ, that you may win others to the truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 190, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 190, 1905, par. 15

They should move in harmony with their brethren, and should be educated in these lines that there may be harmony in diversity. One may have something to say very different from what another has to say, but it is in the very same line, it is in the very same work. They must not make a narrow channel that they must speak and act just as the minister speaks and acts. Let God take the young men right from the plow. Let Him take them as Jesus took them, right from the fishing boat. “Follow me.” “I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.]

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 4—Results of Transgression

PK 64.3

The sharp contrast between the spirit and motives of the people building the wilderness tabernacle, and of those engaged in erecting Solomon’s temple, has a lesson of deep significance. The self-seeking that characterized the workers on the temple finds its counterpart today in the selfishness that rules in the world. The spirit of covetousness, of seeking for the highest position and the highest wage, is rife. The willing service and joyous self-denial of the tabernacle workers is seldom met with. But this is the only spirit that should actuate the followers of Jesus. Our divine Master has given an example of how His disciples are to work. To those whom He bade, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19), He offered no stated sum as a reward for their services. They were to share with Him in self-denial and sacrifice.

Selected Messages Book 2

Chapter 19—An Object Lesson

2SM 176.2

Herein lies a most important lesson for God’s people today—a lesson that many are slow to learn. The spirit of covetousness, of seeking for the highest position and the highest wage, is rife in the world. The old-time spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice is too seldom met with. But this is the only spirit that can actuate a true follower of Jesus. Our divine Master has given us an example of how we are to work. And to those whom He bade, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19), He offered no stated sum as a reward for their services. They were to share with Him His self-denial and sacrifice.

Sons and Daughters of God

In Soul Winning, May 23

SD 150.1

And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 9—The Swiss Reformer

GC 171.1

In the choice of instrumentalities for the reforming of the church, the same divine plan is seen as in that for the planting of the church. The heavenly Teacher passed by the great men of the earth, the titled and wealthy, who were accustomed to receive praise and homage as leaders of the people. They were so proud and self-confident in their boasted superiority that they could not be molded to sympathize with their fellow men and to become colaborers with the humble Man of Nazareth. To the unlearned, toiling fishermen of Galilee was the call addressed: “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19. These disciples were humble and teachable. The less they had been influenced by the false teaching of their time, the more successfully could Christ instruct and train them for His service. So in the days of the Great Reformation. The leading Reformers were men from humble life—men who were most free of any of their time from pride of rank and from the influence of bigotry and priestcraft. It is God’s plan to employ humble instruments to accomplish great results. Then the glory will not be given to men, but to Him who works through them to will and to do of His own good pleasure.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 9—The Swiss Reformer

GC88 171.1

In the choice of instrumentalities for the reforming of the church, the same divine plan is seen as in that for the planting of the church. The heavenly Teacher passed by the great men of earth, the titled and wealthy, who were accustomed to receive praise and homage as leaders of the people. They were so proud and self-confident in their boasted superiority that they could not be moulded to sympathize with their fellow-men, and to become co-laborers with the humble Man of Nazareth. To the unlearned, toiling fishermen of Galilee was the call addressed, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] These disciples were humble and teachable. The less they had been influenced by the false teaching of their time, the more successfully could Christ instruct and train them for his service. So in the days of the Great Reformation. The leading reformers were men from humble life,—men who were most free of any of their time from pride of rank, and from the influence of bigotry and priestcraft. It is God’s plan to employ humble instruments to accomplish great results. Then the glory will not be given to men, but to Him who works through them to will and to do of his own good pleasure.

The Upward Look

We Cannot Do Without God, May 28

UL 162.3

What a comforting thought that Jesus is touched with the feelings of our infirmities! He has been tempted in all points as we are tempted, and just the right kind of help has been provided for us, that if we only put our feet in the prints of Jesus’ footsteps, we will be safe. He has hallowed the path His feet have trod. We hear His inviting voice, “Follow Me. I am the Light of the world. They that follow Me shall not walk in darkness. In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (see Matthew 4:19; John 8:12; 16:33).

The Upward Look

Never Yield Christian Principle, June 1

UL 166.4

Christ did not merely give us directions as to the path in which we must travel, but He came to be our Teacher. He did not merely tell us how we ought to obey, but in His own life He gave us a practical example of how we should obey. Thus He is the true Helper. Going before us, he beats down the obstructions, and tells us to walk in His footsteps. Our blessed Saviour says, “Follow Me. I will lead you. I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness” (see Matthew 4:19; John 14:6; 8:12).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 99, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 99, 1895, par. 3

I was thankful to see that the testimony of warning and encouragement given to Brother Faulkhead more than two years ago had been fully heeded, and that he had separated himself from the secret society of which he was a member. Jesus had spoken to him as He spoke to the fishermen, saying, “Follow me,” when they left their nets and followed Him. [Matthew 4:19, 20.] He called to him as He had called to Matthew, sitting at the receipt of customs, and said, “Follow me.” [Matthew 9:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 79, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 79, 1906, par. 29

They were men of sturdy health. They had no pride to foster, no position to maintain. Christ did not have to clear away a mass of tradition. The Light of the world shone into the chambers of the soul, and they bowed in humility at a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” When Christ said, “Follow Me,” they left all without question; for there was a convincing power attending the command. [Matthew 4:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 55, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 55, 1911, par. 23

John did not receive his education in the schools of the rabbis. He was a son of Zebedee, a Galilean, and like his father was a fisherman. The Saviour said to him, “Follow Me,” and without hesitation John obeyed the call. [Matthew 4:19-22.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 71, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 71, 1903, par. 14

Christ, the great Medical Missionary, is our example. Of Him it is written that He “went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and disease among the people.” [Matthew 4:23.] He healed the sick and preached the gospel. In His service, healing and teaching were linked closely together. Today they are not to be separated.

18LtMs, Ms 71, 1903, par. 38

“And He saith unto them, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets and followed Him.” [Matthew 4:19, 20.]

Counsels on Health

Nurses As Evangelists

CH 395.4

Christ, the great Medical Missionary, is our example. Of Him it is written that He “went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” Matthew 4:23. He healed the sick and preached the gospel. In His service, healing and teaching were linked closely together. Today they are not to be separated.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 205, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 205, 1905, par. 9

Christ was the mighty healer. Of Him we read, “And Jesus went about all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues, and teaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” [Matthew 4:23.] His method of labor is our example of the way in which we are to work. Our missionary efforts are not to be confined to a few centers. In all the world we are to preach the gospel of the kingdom.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 130, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 130, 1905, par. 18

Christ, the great Medical Missionary, is our example. Of Him it is written, that He “went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and disease among the people.” [Matthew 4:23.] He healed the sick and preached the gospel. In His service, healing and teaching were linked closely together. Today they are not to be separated. [Manuscript 71, 1903.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 7, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 7, 1908, par. 10

“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature,” was the command of Christ to His disciples. [Mark 16:15.] What are our churches doing to fulfil this commission? The heathen are dying without the gospel, and the unconverted are right among us, in our towns and cities. Preach the gospel to these. Live it before them, carry it into their homes. Into every household “the gospel of the kingdom” is to be carried. [Matthew 4:23.] And many of these souls must be taught as you would teach little children.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 39, 1912

25LtMs, Ms 39, 1912, par. 1

During the years of Christ’s public ministry, the first disciples were associated closely with Him, that they might be trained for the work that as His representatives they must carry forward when He should be no longer with them. For three years they labored with Him, hearing His words of comfort and hope to the weary and desponding, beholding His miracles in behalf of the suffering. When Christ returned to the Father, He bade the disciples continue the work He had begun. They were given power to heal “all manner of sickness, and all manner of diseases among the people.” [Matthew 4:23.] By healing in His name the diseases of the body, they would testify to His power for the healing of the soul. Through ministry such as Christ had performed, they were to carry to all nations the gospel of His grace.

God’s Amazing Grace

Good News of the Kingdom, January 1

AG 9.1

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom. Matthew 4:23.

Lift Him Up

Spiritual and Physical Maladies Healed, September 1

LHU 258.1

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. Matthew 4:23.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9

Nurses As Evangelists

9T 170.4

Christ, the great Medical Missionary, is our example. Of Him it is written that He “went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” Matthew 4:23. He healed the sick and preached the gospel. In His service, healing and teaching were linked closely together. Today they are not to be separated.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 86—Go Teach All Nations

DA 821.4

The disciples were to have the same power which Jesus had to heal “all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” By healing in His name the diseases of the body, they would testify to His power for the healing of the soul. Matthew 4:23; 9:6. And a new endowment was now promised. The disciples were to preach among other nations, and they would receive power to speak other tongues. The apostles and their associates were unlettered men, yet through the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost, their speech, whether in their own or a foreign language, became pure, simple, and accurate, both in word and in accent.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Nurses as Evangelists

3TT 369.3

Christ, the great Medical Missionary, is our example. Of Him it is written that He “went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” Matthew 4:23. He healed the sick and preached the gospel. In His service, healing and teaching were linked closely together. Today they are not to be separated.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 147, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 147, 1902, par. 2

Christ is our example. Of His work we read: “Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. ... They brought unto Him all sick people which were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and He healed them.” [Matthew 4:23, 24.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 193, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 193, 1901, par. 11

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people, and his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.” [Matthew 4:23, 24.]

16LtMs, Lt 193, 1901, par. 12

“And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.” [Verse 25.] And seeing the multitude, He gave what is known to us as the Sermon on the Mount, in which is clearly defined the experience all may gain in the things of God. God expects great things of every believer, and in view of the light given in these wonderful words spoken by the Saviour, what excuse is there for any one to walk in the mist of uncertainty? What excuse has any one for being confused and unbelieving? The work of the Spirit is to bring the world in touch with Christ, that through His power men and women may be continually won to the truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 86, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 86, 1902, par. 11

Never did the Lord Jesus confine His labors to one place. We read of Him that “He went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria, and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those that were possessed with devils; ... and he healed them. And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from beyond Jordan.” [Matthew 4:23-25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 287, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 287, 1905, par. 28

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease among the people. And His fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto Him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy, and He healed them. And there followed Him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.” [Matthew 4:23-25.]

The Upward Look

Our Father’s Business, November 12

UL 330.1

And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. Matthew 4:24.