King James Version

What Does Matthew 4:20 Mean?

Matthew 4:20 in the King James Version says “And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.

Matthew 4:20 · KJV


Context

18

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.

19

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

20

And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.

21

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.

22

And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The phrase 'they straightway left their nets' emphasizes the immediate, unconditional obedience that characterizes genuine discipleship. Their willingness to abandon livelihood and security demonstrates that Christ's call supersedes all earthly attachments and responsibilities. This immediate response was enabled by divine grace effectually calling them—illustrating irresistible grace in Reformed theology. True disciples count the cost and still find Christ infinitely more valuable.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Leaving their nets meant abandoning their means of income and family business. This was not rash foolishness but Spirit-enabled faith recognizing Christ's supreme worth. Some disciples later returned to fishing temporarily (John 21:3), but their primary calling was now following Jesus.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the disciples' immediate abandonment of their livelihood teach about the cost and priority of following Christ?
  2. How does their response illustrate the effectual nature of Christ's call in drawing His elect to Himself?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
οἱ1 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 8

And

G1161

but, and, etc

εὐθέως3 of 8

they straightway

G2112

directly, i.e., at once or soon

ἀφέντες4 of 8

left

G863

to send forth, in various applications (as follow)

τὰ5 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δίκτυα6 of 8

their nets

G1350

a seine (for fishing)

ἠκολούθησαν7 of 8

followed

G190

properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)

αὐτῷ8 of 8

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 4:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 4:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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