MATT 4:18-25

THE WORK OF SAVING SOULS The Lord’s mission: The Disciples work (Matt 18:11; Jas 5:19-20). The Master’s work is a “good” work (Gal 4:18; Matt 10:25). It is a work for ordinary disciples. It is a work we can succeed in doing.

THE PROMISE OF SAVING SOULS “Follow Me, I WILL make you fishers of men.” On the job training (Matt 4:23-25). How to avoid entrapment (Matt 12:1-4; 21:23-27). How to emphasize Scripture (Matt 12:3, 11). When to keep silent (Matt 26:62-63). To be realistic about the outcome (Matt 13:8). To be wise & harmless (Matt 10:16). Jesus sent them out (Matt 10:11-15; Luke 10).

THE HIGHEST CALLING IS SAVING SOULS The Twelve left their trades & ambitions. To “seek first the kingdom of God” (Matt 6:33) is to seek the salvation of souls above our personal desires.

THE REQUIREMENTS OF SAVING SOULS The desire to rescue souls from grave danger (Matt 16:26; Jude 23). The training needed to teach them (2 Tim 2:15-16, 22-26). The patience to allow God’s word to work (1 Cor 3:6-8; Jas 1:21: 1 Pet 1:22-25).

Jesus: “I will make you fishers of men if you follow Me” “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise” Prov 11:30

Forgiveness of Sin: Salvation! Faith in Jesus Christ through the Gospel John 8:24; 20:30-31; Rom 1:16; 10:9-10; Mark 16:16; Heb 11:6 Repent or turn from sins Luke 24:46-47; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 17:30-31 Confess faith in Christ Matt 10:32-33; Acts 8:36-38; Rom 10:9-10 Be immersed in water Matt 28:19; Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38; Rom 6:3-4; 1 Pet 3:21 Live in obedient faith Heb 5:8-9; 1 Peter 1:14; Rev 2:10