Matthew 4:20
What does Matthew 4:20 mean?
A plain-English look at Matthew 4:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Matthew 4:20 means
Simon and Andrew responded to Jesus' call with immediate and profound obedience. Without hesitation or delay, they "straightway left the nets"—their livelihood, security, and familiar way of life—and "followed him." Their swift action demonstrates a radical commitment and faith in Jesus' authority and purpose, illustrating the transformative power of His invitation and the urgency of the kingdom message.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And they straightway left the nets, and followed him.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And they straightway left the nets, and followed him.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And straight away they let go the nets and went after him.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and they, immediately, having left the nets, did follow him.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And they immediately leaving their nets, followed him.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And they, having left their trawl-nets, immediately followed him.
Context
This verse details the immediate and decisive response of Simon and Andrew to Jesus' call in the previous verse. Their instant abandonment of their nets underscores the impact of Jesus' invitation and their readiness to follow Him. This prompt obedience sets a powerful example for discipleship and prepares the reader for the calling of additional disciples who will also show similar immediate commitment.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Psalms 119:60
I made haste, and delayed not, To observe thy commandments.
- Mark 10:28
Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.
- Luke 18:28
And Peter said, Lo, we have left our own, and followed thee.
- Matthew 10:37
He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
- Matthew 19:27
Then answered Peter and said unto him, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee; what then shall we have?
- Galatians 1:16
to reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the Gentiles; straightway I conferred not with flesh and blood:
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