Gospel of Mark Bible Part 7: The First Disciples [Bible Study]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
Bible Study Title: Called to Follow – Lessons from the First Disciples
Scripture Focus: Mark 1:16-20
Opening Prayer
Ask the Lord to help you hear His call clearly, respond with obedience, and walk in humility as His disciple.
Introduction
After beginning His public ministry, Jesus called four fishermen—Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John—to follow Him. Their immediate response shows us what it means to leave everything behind to follow Jesus. This passage challenges us to examine our willingness to obey and the humility required to be used by God.
Bible Reading
Read Mark 1:16-20 and Luke 5:1-11 for the fuller account.
Section 1 – Simon Peter and Andrew
Background: Sons of Jonah, from Bethsaida, fishermen by trade, partners with James and John.
The Call: While working, they were invited to become “fishers of men.”
The Response: Left their nets immediately.
Lesson in Humility: Peter’s reaction to the miraculous catch—falling at Jesus’ knees, confessing his sinfulness (Luke 5:8).
Discussion Questions:
How does humility prepare us for service in God’s kingdom?
What “nets” might God be asking you to leave behind?
Section 2 – James and John
Background: Sons of Zebedee and Salome, successful fishermen with hired servants.
The Call: Left their father and business to follow Jesus.
Their Temperament: Called “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17), sometimes zealous in the wrong way (Luke 9:54-56).
End of Life: James martyred (Acts 12:1-2), John exiled and author of multiple New Testament books.
Discussion Questions:
How can God shape a strong personality for His purposes?
What do James and John’s lives teach about long-term faithfulness?
Section 3 – What It Means to Be Called
Sacrifice: Leaving behind career, comfort, and even family if necessary (Luke 14:26-27).
Purpose: Becoming “fishers of men” means actively seeking the lost (Luke 19:10).
Urgency: The disciples followed “immediately”—no hesitation.
Reflection: How quickly do you respond when God calls you to act?
Section 4 – Discipleship Today
Following Jesus requires salvation and being Spirit-filled (John 14:6; 2 Corinthians 13:5).
True discipleship involves humility, obedience, and a willingness to endure hardship.
God uses ordinary people—like fishermen—to accomplish extraordinary work.
Discussion Questions:
What qualities make someone effective as a disciple today?
How can we balance daily responsibilities with the call to seek the lost?
Memory Verse
Mark 1:17 – “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.”
Closing Challenge
Jesus’ call is personal and urgent. The first disciples left everything without delay. Today, He still calls us to follow Him with that same wholehearted commitment—trusting Him to shape us into people who bring others into His kingdom.
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