Imagine being the Apostle Andrew. He was the brother of Peter. Peter is one of the most famous people in the Bible. He preached the gospel first to the Jews and Gentiles (Acts 2:14-36; 10:34-48). He was an elder in the church (1 Peter 5:1). He was with the Lord on the mount of transfiguration and in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 17:1; 26:36-38). Due to the spiritual resume of Peter, Andrew is often overlooked.

And yet, the little the New Testament reveals about him is helpful to God’s people today.

Andrew was a truth seeker.

  • John the Baptist was responsible for pointing people to Jesus the Messiah (John 1:29-36). Andrew was a disciple of John, but once he realized that Jesus was the Lamb of God, he departed from John and started following Him (John 1:37-39).
  • Like his brother Peter, Andrew also left his profession to take on the work of an apostle (Matthew 4:18-20). He devoted his life to learning and being trained by Jesus.
  • Andrew was one of four apostles who further investigated the coming judgment on Jerusalem (Mark 13:1-4). Like Peter, James, and John, Andrew also had many private moments with the Lord.
  • Andrew’s example motivates us always to seek to be learners and students of Jesus. We should never be content with our current spiritual knowledge. We should seek to ask questions and dig deep into the riches of God’s word.

Andrew had a wavering faith.

  • The people listed in the “Hall of Faith” were not perfect (Hebrews 11). They were ordinary people who sinned and, at times, possessed wavering faiths. Abraham is a prime example of someone who struggled in his faith (Genesis 12:10-20).
  • Even though he had seen Jesus perform many miracles, Andrew doubted the Lord’s ability to provide food for thousands of people (John 6:4-10).
  • Are you currently struggling in your faith? Are you doubting the Lord’s ability to help you in a failing marriage, or restoring a prodigal child, or in reaching someone lost with the gospel? If so, do what Andrew should have done. Allow Jesus’ work in the past to give you confidence about what He can do for you in the present and future.

Andrew was effective in evangelism.

  • Andrew used his influence with his brother to bring him to Jesus (John 1:40-42). He enthusiastically offered Peter a simple invitation to come and learn about Jesus.
  • Building strong relationships are vital to winning the lost. People will be more inclined to listen to us teach the gospel if they first trust and know us on a personal level.
  • Think of someone you have influence with that you can win for the Lord.

Andrew did not need the spotlight.

  • If Andrew was prideful, he could have resented all the attention and responsibility given to Peter. The Bible never indicates that he had that kind of attitude.
  • Andrew had all the gifts and works as the other apostles. But, unfortunately, the Bible doesn’t give us the details.
  • Kingdom work should never be about us being out in front and getting the spotlight. It should always be about bringing glory to the Lord and obeying His will. Andrew understood this!

Conclusion:

Andrew may be overlooked by many today, but Jesus never overlooked him.