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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 to the multitudes that day (Acts 2:1, 14). Andrew’s example is worthy of emulation. What can we learn from this disciple of the Lord?

As we read about Andrew, we see 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.)?

Another valuable quality in Andrew was his sincerity. This sincerity led him to search for the Truth. Too many today 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! In John 1:38, however, we see in no uncertain terms that Andrew was seeking the Lord. Andrew sincerely and honestly sought his Creator (Matt. 6:33). Do we have this kind of sincerity?

Let us learn that to make Christ mean anything to others, He must first mean something to us. 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. Some fear it will cause others to look down on them (Jn. 12:42-43). Others do not thirst after righteousness because they do not want to lack the financial security they now enjoy (I Tim. 6:10). Still, some just have so many selfish pleasures, that they do not make time for God, or spiritual matters (Lk. 8:14). Andrew put Christ first in his life, and the effects of his work are still being felt! Where do we place Christ in our lives?

Finally, notice that after finding Jesus, Andrew did not stop. Andrew put his conviction into practice. Regardless of whether or not the “prominent” people ever recognize us, God knows what we have done, and will reward us openly (Ecc. 12:13-14; Matt. 6:4, 6, 18).

There are many wonderful qualities in the apostle Andrew. Let us learn from his example and be a blessed people as a result.

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167