The first four men to follow Jesus were not religious experts like the teachers of the Law, but fishermen, men of the people. Their call is described vividly in 1: 17. John's gospel indicates that some of those who became disciples of Jesus, including Simon (Peter) had been prepared for their new calling by the teaching of John the Baptist (John 1:35-42). Mark emphasizes their response of total commitment to Jesus. 'At once they left their nets and went with him.'