An Influential Father

Read:

Matthew 4:21-22 “Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.”

Think:

During biblical times, it was common for sons to be trained to continue the family profession. This was the case for James and John, who worked with their father Zebedee in the family fishing business. Although Scripture does not provide much detail about their family, it is likely that they were raised with a certain level of maturity, mutual respect, and solid upbringing of the Jewish Scriptures. When they were called to “follow a rabbi,” the boys moved quickly, and probably Zebedee's eyes filled with tears.

However, when Jesus appeared, everything changed. Jesus called James and John to follow him, and in a remarkable response to his call, they dropped their nets and left everything behind to become his disciples. Zebedee raised two sons who went on to become fervent followers of Christ. James and John were passionate, outspoken, and unwavering in their commitment to the Gospel. James was the first of the apostles to be martyred for his faith, while John went on to write the Gospel of John and the epistles of 1, 2, and 3 John, as well as the Book of Revelation. Through their obedience to Jesus, James and John became mighty warriors for the cause of Christ, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

Apply:

How you parent matters! Who you follow matters. Teach your kids to follow Jesus. Train them to follow Jesus. Be prepared to move, perhaps to tell your neighbors about his faithfulness, you may invite them to church.

Pray:

Jesus, help my child to know your Word and to grow in faith each day. Grant me wisdom and discernment to lead them in your ways. In Jesus' name, Amen.