1. Matthew 4:19–20 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Did Jesus’ initial calling of the disciples also confirm their apostleship?

Matthew 4:19–20 (ESV)

19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

In short

Jesus’ first call to the disciples to follow him did not immediately make them apostles. This only happens when he specifically sends them out (Mark 3:14; Luke 6:13; Matthew 10:1–4). At first they are simply his followers, answering the common call from a rabbi: Follow me.

No. The initial calling of the disciples to follow Jesus and become fishers of men did not in itself constitute confirming them in the office of apostle. This only happens later—shortly before they are sent out as apostles (Mark 3:14; Luke 6:13; Matthew 10:1–4). Initially Jesus simply calls them to become his disciples or followers. He calls them in a way that was common for a rabbi to call his disciples: Follow me.1