Mark 1:16-20

In Mark 1:16–20, Jesus walks along the Sea of Galilee, calls four ordinary fishermen, and turns their entire lives upside down with two simple words: “Follow Me.” In this sermon from November 30, 2025, David Baalbergen explores what it means to be called, transformed, and sent by the Lord of Glory.

We look at how Jesus chooses ordinary people—fishermen, tradesmen, everyday people—to display His extraordinary power. We see why His call demands an immediate, decisive leaving behind of the old life. And we trace the Old Testament imagery behind Jesus’ words, particularly how Jeremiah’s “fishers and hunters” finds its true fulfillment in Christ.

We are reminder that God uses weak tools to showcase His strength, we consider the good news that Christ calls us—not because we are impressive, but because He is powerful. He is the One who transforms, empowers, and equips His people to participate in His mission: becoming fishers of men.

If you are wrestling with what it means to leave behind sin, comfort, or even a life you’ve built apart from God, this passage invites you to see the surpassing worth of Christ. His call is gracious. His mission is eternal. And following Him is worth everything.

We hope this message encourages you to abandon what holds you back, trust fully in Jesus, and joyfully join Him in His kingdom work.

📍 East Brainerd Baptist Church

1047 Graysville Rd, Chattanooga, TN

🌐 Website: https://eastbrainerdbaptist.org

🕚 Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM

If you’re in the Chattanooga area, we would love to meet you and worship with you in person. You’re invited to join us as we study God’s Word, pursue Christ together, and learn what it means to follow Him with everything we have.