‘At once they left their nets and followed Him.’ Matthew 4:20. Simon Peter and John’s call to follow Jesus resulted in an immediate response from these two men. This was in contrast to the man who wouldn’t follow Jesus until he had buried the dead, which was an excuse. But the immediate response of the disciples would not have come out of the blue. Day after day they would have heard Jesus preaching as they went about their work as fishermen They would have heard His words and witnessed His miracles. Their stirred hearts were being made ready for the calling.
Saul/Paul’s acceptance acceptance of Christ was just as sudden, but he was also being prepared. His persecution meant he had studied the scriptures thoroughly to arm himself with information to persecute. His knowledge was exceptionable. This groundwork led to the Damascus road.
Today, conversion still follows preparation. Those who are older would have learned from Sunday School, school or from their families. The younger ones could have learned that Christianity was something to be avoided but when at uni, a roommate could have told them the good news. A new neighbour could share the news, a colleague in a new job.
How exciting if we are chosen to be part of this awakening!