Andrew is a disciple of Christ whose record of work is pretty much limited to what we read in a few places in the gospel records. Though not specifically mentioned, he would have been present on the day of Pentecost and preaching that day (Acts 2:1, 14). Andrew's example is worthy of emulation. What can we learn from this disciple of the Lord?
Andrew Was Active
As we read about Andrew, he was an apostle, and vital to the cause of Christ. Although we are not told of all the people he brought to the Lord, there is one case in particular that interests us. It is found in John 1:40-42.
"One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone."
Notice what Andrew did. He "first" found his brother and brought him to Christ. Andrew set the example for us to follow. Think for a moment about Simon Peter, and all the things he did for Christ. Without the action of Andrew, how many souls might have been lost (Acts 2:36-41; 10-11; etc.)?
Andrew Was A Soul-Winner
Andrew was an example of a true soul winner. In bringing his brother to Jesus, Andrew showed sincerity, a willingness to search for the Truth, a drive to proclaim Christ to others, and a true love of Christ and His word.
Friend, in order to convert people, one must first be converted! Notice that Andrew first heard and followed Jesus himself (John 1:37). How great it would be if we all listened to Christ as Andrew did (Matt. 17:5; Rom. 10:17)! Likewise, we must follow Jesus instead of following the world (Luke 11:28; 1 John 2:15-17).
The best soul-winner is the one that not only knows the facts, but leads by example! Consider the lives of Ezra (Ezra 7:10), Jesus (Acts 1:1), and Paul (1 Cor. 11:1). They led not only in teaching, but in example as well. We must not only hear, but sincerely follow Jesus. The hypocrite will not convert anyone to Christ (Matt. 23:3).
Let us decide to be like Andrew and win lost souls for Christ!
Andrew Was A Sincere Man
This sincerity led him to search for the Truth. Too many do not want to hear the Truth preached. Much of this attitude can be attributed to their lack of sincerity. They do not want to sincerely study and learn what the Truth is for fear that they are wrong, and will have to change their ways!
Jesus promised to fill those who hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matt. 5:6). In John 1:38, we see in no uncertain terms that Andrew was seeking the Lord. Andrew sincerely and honestly sought his Creator (Matt. 6:33).
Sometimes, we wonder why people today do not have a thirst for Biblical truth. Let me suggest a few things that contribute to this lack of knowledge. First, some have such a thirst for social acceptance, that they cannot be bothered with spiritual truths for fear it will cause others to look down on them (John 12:42-43). Others do not thirst after righteousness because they do not want to lack the financial security they now enjoy (1 Tim. 6:10). Still, some just have so many selfish pleasures, that they do not make time for God, or spiritual matters (Luke 8:14).
Let us learn that to make Christ mean anything to others, He must mean something to us. This is what Andrew did, and the effects of his work are still being felt!
Andrew Was A Driven Man
After finding Jesus, Andrew did not stop. Andrew put his conviction into practice. "He first findeth his own brother Simon" (John 1:41)! Andrew's sincere love of God motivated him to tell others about Christ. Let us learn that there is no greater work a man can do than to convert a soul. (Prov. 11:30; James 5:20). Regardless of whether or not the "prominent" people ever recognize us, God knows what we have done, and will reward us openly (Eccl. 12:13-14; Matt. 6:4, 6, 18).
Friends, let us imitate Andrew's drive to teach others the truth. He did not wait! He did not spend years waiting to get started. Andrew had wonderful news to proclaim, and he went out and did it!
Conclusion
Do we not also have wonderful news to proclaim? Do we not also have opportunities for teaching and spreading the gospel every day? While we may not all preach in a "public" manner, God expects us all to be soul winners (2 Tim. 2:2).
One thing is for certain, the Lord's body will be greatly blessed if more Christians develop Andrew's qualities of a sincere heart, a willingness to search and learn the Truth, and a drive to proclaim the gospel to every creature! May God help us to develop these qualities.
- The Old Paths, 4/3/16