Andrew - First To Follow

John 1:40 – 42

Introduction: Andrew’s name is mentioned only 13 times in the Bible. Thus, he is sort of an unknown Apostle. He wasn’t a glory seeker like James or John, a fighter like Peter, or a doubter like Thomas. He was neither a writer like Matthew, Mark, Luke or John, a pillar like Peter or Paul; nor was he part of the inner circle of Peter, James and John. Nevertheless, Andrew was a fisherman and a fisher of men.

Andrew was a follower of John the Baptist, and tradition says that he died on a cross.

We see him in action three times in scripture.

I. Bringing his brother (Peter) to the Lord - John 1:40-42

Although the elder of the two brothers, Andrew is mentioned before Peter only once (v.44) in scripture. He had just seen the Lamb of God (v.36). Andrew missed his evening meal to witness and (in the original) insisted that Peter follow. One commentator said the word “findeth” indicates that Andrew could not rest until he made sure Peter met the Lord. He didn’t get into a theological discussion; he simply shared his joy. Spurgeon said, “He didn’t communicate this fact to Peter halfheartedly, but enthusiastically.” “We have found the (Hebrew) Messiah!” Literally the anointed one, Isaiah 61:1. The (Greek) Christ pointed to the future Davidic Kingdom. Robertson says, “The original language indicates John observed Andrew’s persistence and then found his own brother.”

After Peter’s preaching and the thousands saved at Pentecost, Andrew must have felt like Edward Kimball, the shoe salesman who led Dwight L. Moody to Christ. Moody went on to stir people on two continents to God.

Andrew didn’t seem jealous of Peter, I Corinthians 13:4. Too many won’t play in the band unless they have the first chair. He thought more of service than reputation.

II. Finding bread and meat for others - John 6:8, 9

In contrast to Philip’s knowledge of little resources in his hometown, Andrew said, “What are these (loaves) among so many?” Andrew still brought the bread, possibly having spiritual insight into his Master’s ability. Regardless, his obedience to go and look made the impossible a possibility. He probably remembered reading of Elijah’s feeding of 100 men with 20 small loaves, II Kings 4:42-44. A greater than Elijah had arrived.

Barley was the food of the poor. “God uses those of little faith when in obedience.”

III. Telling the Greeks where to find Jesus - John 12:20-22

The Greeks were seekers of the truth. Regardless of which Greeks these were, possibly proselytes, they were not allowed to participate. Jesus was probably farther inside the Temple than the Court of the Gentiles.

The Greeks probably approached Philip because he had a Greek name or lived in the area with many Greeks. Regardless, Philip knew Andrew could put them in contact with Jesus and thus approached Andrew. Andrew knew the call (Matthew 10:5) excluded Gentiles but still approached Jesus. He knew Jesus never turned souls away and no one was ever a nuisance. These were “the other sheep not of this fold,” after all He was/is the Savior of the whole world.

Conclusion: Although, not a pillar - a humble stone. Like David’s mighty man, Benaiah - a quiet hero. The last shall be first. This earnest seeker of truth will one day be exalted. Revelation 21:14 says he will have his name forever engraved on the foundation of the eternal city.

Well done my good and faithful servant, Andrew!