Fishing for People

Children's Sermon: Fishing for People (Matthew 4:18-23)

Do you enjoy fishing? Have you ever caught a fish? 

Fishing is a great sport, and if you have ever been fishing and have caught a fish, you know that there’s a great feeling of excitement when you catch a fish. One of the things that makes fishing such a great sport is that it doesn't matter if you’re young or old...you can still be good at fishing.

What does it take to be good at catching fish? First of all, you need to be properly equipped. You can't just get a piece of string, put a hook on it, and tie it on the end of a stick and expect to catch many fish, can you? No! If you’re serious about fishing, you’ll make sure you have all the right equipment. You’ll want a nice rod and reel like this one I have this morning.

The next thing you need to know is that you have to go where the fish are to catch fish!

Finally, if you want to be good at fishing, you must be patient. Sometimes the fish just aren't biting. You have to wait patiently.

Our Bible lesson today has something to do with fishing. One day, Jesus was walking along the seashore when he saw two brothers named Peter and Andrew. Jesus knew they made their living by fishing, so He called out to them, "Follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!" Do you know what they did? They laid down their fishing nets and followed Jesus.

Jesus wants you and me to fish for people, too. That means that Jesus wants us to tell others about what He has done for us and what He wants to do for them. Fishing for people is a lot like fishing for fish.

First, we need to be properly equipped. We need to know what the Bible teaches and learn how to share it with others.

Next, we go out where the people are and tell them about Jesus.

Finally, we must be patient. 

If we will do these things, we can really become fishers of people like Jesus wants us to be. If you think there is a great feeling of excitement in catching a fish, just imagine how exciting it must be to bring someone to Jesus!

Dear Jesus, help us become fishers of people. Help us tell others what You have done for us and what you want to do for them. In Jesus’ name, amen.