Character Study Of Andrew Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF ANDREW – BROTHER OF PETER, ONE OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 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 Messiah, which is, being interpreted, the Christ."

Supporting Texts: Matthew 4:18-20, John 6:8-9, John 12:20-22, Mark 3:13-18, Acts 1:13

INTRODUCTION:

Andrew was one of the first disciples to follow Jesus. He was the brother of Simon Peter and had been a disciple of John the Baptist before meeting Christ. Andrew is often remembered for his eagerness to bring others to Jesus, including his brother Peter. Though he was not as prominent as Peter, James, or John, his role in the early church was significant. His life teaches us about humility, evangelism, and the importance of bringing people to Christ.

1. ANDREW WAS A DISCIPLE OF JOHN THE BAPTIST BEFORE FOLLOWING JESUS

a) He was seeking the truth (John 1:35-37)

Andrew was already a follower of John the Baptist, showing his hunger for righteousness.

b) He immediately followed Jesus when introduced to Him (John 1:40-41)

He recognised Jesus as the Messiah and responded without hesitation.

c) He introduced his brother Peter to Jesus (John 1:42)

He did not keep the good news to himself but shared it with his family.

d) He was among the first disciples called by Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20)

Andrew and Peter left their fishing business to follow Christ.

e) Biblical Example: Philip also sought out Nathanael to bring him to Jesus (John 1:45-46).

2. ANDREW HAD A HEART FOR EVANGELISM

a) He was always bringing people to Jesus (John 1:41-42)

He introduced Peter, who later became a key leader in the church.

b) He brought the boy with five loaves and two fish to Jesus (John 6:8-9)

He saw the potential in small things and trusted Jesus to do great miracles.

c) He introduced Greek seekers to Jesus (John 12:20-22)

He helped bridge the gap between Jews and Gentiles.

d) He valued personal evangelism (Mark 1:16-18)

His ministry focused on individuals rather than large crowds.

e) Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman also led others to Jesus after encountering Him (John 4:28-30).

3. ANDREW WAS HUMBLE AND CONTENT WITH HIS ROLE

a) He lived in Peter’s shadow but remained faithful (John 1:42)

Though Peter was more prominent, Andrew did not compete with him.

b) He was not part of the inner circle (Peter, James, and John) (Mark 5:37, Mark 9:2)

Yet, he remained committed to Jesus without jealousy.

c) He served quietly and diligently (John 6:8-9)

He was not known for preaching to large crowds but for bringing people to Jesus.

d) He was a faithful disciple until the end (Acts 1:13)

He remained a part of the early church after Jesus’ ascension.

e) Biblical Example: Barnabas also played a supportive role in the early church (Acts 4:36-37).

4. ANDREW WAS A MAN OF FAITH

a) He believed in Jesus from the beginning (John 1:41)

His recognition of Jesus as the Messiah showed his spiritual discernment.

b) He trusted Jesus to use the boy’s lunch to feed the multitude (John 6:9-11)

He had faith that Jesus could multiply resources.

c) He saw Jesus as the answer to people’s needs (John 12:22)

He directed people to Jesus rather than trying to solve their problems himself.

d) He remained faithful even when not in the spotlight (Acts 1:13)

His faith was not dependent on recognition or position.

e) Biblical Example: The centurion also had great faith in Jesus’ power (Matthew 8:5-10).

5. ANDREW WAS INVOLVED IN THE EARLY CHURCH

a) He witnessed the resurrection of Jesus (Acts 1:3-4)

His faith was strengthened by Jesus’ victory over death.

b) He was present at Pentecost (Acts 1:13, Acts 2:1-4)

He received the Holy Spirit along with the other apostles.

c) He helped spread the gospel beyond Israel (Matthew 28:19-20)

According to tradition, he preached in Greece and Asia Minor.

d) He remained a faithful witness until death (Revelation 2:10)

Historical records suggest he was martyred for his faith.

e) Biblical Example: Paul also took the gospel to the Gentiles (Romans 15:20).

STRENGTHS OF ANDREW

a) He was quick to recognise Jesus as the Messiah (John 1:41)

His spiritual awareness led him to Christ early.

b) He was passionate about bringing others to Jesus (John 1:42, John 6:8-9)

His evangelistic heart influenced many.

c) He was content with serving behind the scenes (Mark 1:16-18)

He did not seek personal glory.

d) He had faith in Jesus’ ability to perform miracles (John 6:9-11)

He trusted that Jesus could multiply resources.

e) He remained faithful to Christ throughout his life (Acts 1:13)

He endured persecution and remained committed.

WEAKNESSES OF ANDREW

a) He was not as bold as Peter (Matthew 16:16-19)