Peter and Andrew did already know Jesus before being called to be his disciples (see Luke 5:1–11). They were already familiar with Jesus’s ministry (John 1:35–42). The quick response of Peter and Andrew to Jesus’ call (Matthew 4:20) implies that they had already encountered him in Judea (see John 1:1–51), but also shows the work of the Holy Spirit to prepare them for their new calling.
Yes, in fact the immediate obedience of the men first called to be disciples is much easier to be understood when read in the context of the comprehensive report recorded in Luke 5:1–11. There already existed a relationship between Jesus and the men, and they were familiar with his ministry (John 1:35–42).1 The fact that Peter and Andrew immediately respond so positively to the calling of Jesus (Matthew 4:20) suggests that these two men had already become acquainted with Jesus in Judea (see John 1:1–51), but it must also be seen in terms of the fact that they were being prepared for this calling by the work of the Holy Spirit.2
19 Il leur dit: Suivez-moi, et je vous ferai pêcheurs d'hommes.