Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matt 4:19
There is some skill involved with fishing. Knowing how to cast, how to remove a hook, how to untangle a line, or just getting the fish in the boat.
Around where I live the most popular fishing is bass, crappie, and catfish.
Other places around the states may include pike, steelhead, redfish, sock-eye, rainbow trout and the list goes on.
Each of these fish takes a different method; a different knowledge and skill.
Fly-fishing is totally different from a cane pole and a hook but both will catch fish; the bait or lure is different and the location is different.
You may stand in a river to fly fish but sit on a bank to use a cane pole.
A boat and chair may be the rule for marlin fishing but perhaps a trotline for catfish.
When it comes to fishing for men there must also be some knowledge and skill.
What you say to one person may work; then the same words don’t reach another.
You must minister to the needs of each individual, which Jesus was a master at this.
To a man born into a prosperous family He said, “You must be born again.” John 3:7
To a woman at the well looking to draw water He said, “Give Me a drink.” John 4:7
To fishermen like Simon Peter and Andrew He said, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matt 4:19
To Nathanael He said, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” John 1:47
To each “fish” Jesus used a different “method” of reaching him or her.
It takes a certain discipline with fishing; to know the spot, the lure, and the method to catch the fish. Perhaps it would even take a fishing guide.
As with fishing, it takes a certain discipline to reach someone with the Gospel. Of Jesus. The Holy Spirit is our guide.
Discipleship is the key to reaching others for Jesus. It is very valuable to know the word of God and how or when to use it.