In today’s chapel sermon, Nathan Lino, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in Forney, TX, focused on Matthew 4:19: “And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’” He emphasized that Jesus' statement is both a calling and a command, filled with urgency. This invitation to follow Christ and become "fishers of men" is not optional — it’s a divine directive for all believers.

Pastor Lino explained that in the Old Testament, the metaphor of fishing was used by God to describe His judgment on sin, as seen in Ezekiel 29:4-10. However, when Jesus calls His disciples to become fishers of men, it’s a transformation that moves beyond judgment to salvation. The purpose of fishing in the New Covenant is to bring others to Christ and lead them to eternal life, not to pronounce judgment. This mission is central to a Christian’s life, reflecting the urgent need to reach others with the Gospel.

He stressed that becoming a fisher of men is not something we can do on our own. It’s not a skill we can develop by our own effort; it is something God does in us. Pastor Lino pointed out that Jesus didn’t say, “You will become fishers of men by your own strength.” Instead, He said, “I will make you fishers of men.” It is God who transforms us, equipping us to share the Gospel and lead others to salvation. If God could change someone like John Mark, who was once unreliable and fearful, He can certainly transform anyone into a fisher of men.

Pastor Lino reminded the student body of God’s deep love for every person. The Gospel is not just a message of salvation but one that demonstrates the love of God, who created each individual with purpose. “You were not a chance of fate,” he said. “When you were conceived, God loved you.” This love is the foundation for the calling to become fishers of men — Jesus’ mission to save souls is rooted in His love for humanity.

Finally, Pastor Lino encouraged believers to respond to the call with urgency. Repentance means turning away from the old way of life and committing to follow Jesus, embracing all that is true. He reminded everyone that this calling is not just for the disciples in the Bible; it’s for us today. Jesus’ ultimate purpose for our lives is to become fishers of men — sharing His love and truth with a world in desperate need of salvation.