And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
Matthew 4:18. And Jesus walking. As this history is placed by Luke after the two miracles, which we shall afterwards see, an opinion has commonly prevailed, that the miracle, which is here related by him, was performed some time after that they had been called by Christ.
Christ's call to these fishermen was no common preaching, it was effectual, particular, the sovereign work of His grace distinguishing them from all the multitude. He was ordaining them as His instruments, the first ushers in His great school, setting apart earthen vessels to hold the treasure of the gospel. Here by Galilee's shore He began His care for the church.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 4:18-22
And they straightway left their nets,.... That is, as soon as he had called them, they left their worldly employment, and followed him; they gave up themselves to his service, and became his disciples; they not only left their "nets", but their fishing boats, and fishing trade, and all that belonged to it, even all their substance; and also their relations, friends, and acquaintance, see...