Andrew Attitude

Andrew was the apostle known for bringing people to Christ - at several points in the Scriptures, he is a key link in the chain.

The first time that this trait is noted is introducing Simon to Jesus - we read in John 1:4-41:

One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means Christ).

His most winsome characteristic resurfaces a little later with a lad - lacking ingredients to feed a multitude, Andrew locates bread & fish with which Christ proceeds to satisfy His flock, in John 6:8-11:

One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to him, "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?" Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted.

Peter's brother just couldn't hold back when diaspora Jews attended a feast - nothing seemed more normal, being closer to our Lord's "inner circle" than Philip, to pass on the good news that Greeks were keen to meet his Saviour, in John 12:20-22:

Now among those who went up to worship at the feast were some Greeks. So these came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked him, "Sir, we wish to see Jesus." Philip went and told Andrew; Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus.

It all seemed very appropriate - appointed as an apostle, and a fisherman by trade - to catch souls for Christ (just as often as he could and as providence allowed), as the Gospel of Matthew records, in 4:18 & 10:2.

How, we might ask, was he able to carry on this work of leading souls to Christ? Andrew was learning to abide in Christ! Not apart from His indwelling Spirit can his fishermen land a catch!

What a personal burden to share the name of the apostle! But for all of those who don't actually wear this tag, we all ought to be "More Andrew."

After all, my brothers & sisters, is time not running out? Souls perish all around! Christ is coming soon! Heartbeats may not repeat! We all still have free-speech! This window may be closed! Speak truth while you can!

Are there not many avenues by which the "Andrew Attitude" can make approach for Christ - issuing invitations to church, sharing a Gospel tract, praying for open doors, asking for choice words, to boldly share our faith, with family or friends, neighbours or colleague, strangers or passengers? A BBQ or meal can open up a path - or why not run a Bible Study and put fliers round the doors?

Whatever path we tread, we need the Spirit's strength! In our station & place, but particularly when they ask, he helps the trusting timid to give a fair account for their real, indwelling, hope.