John 1:40
One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.
John 1:40
This verse identifies Andrew as one of the first disciples who had heard John the Baptist and then followed Jesus. The Gospel emphasizes familial and social networks in the spread of Jesus’ fame. Andrew is introduced simply as Simon Peter’s brother, underscoring how early Christian community often formed through relationships. The stream of thought in John’s narrative moves from John the Baptist’s testimony to direct discipleship: hearing the witness about Christ leads to personal following. The brevity of the line—“One of the two which heard John… and followed him”—also points to the unnamed “two” who are not named here but will play significant roles later. This verse reflects the intimacy of initial encounters with Jesus, where ordinary people respond to a compelling encounter with the Messiah and begin a journey that will reshape their identities and futures.
The verse highlights the continuity between John the Baptist’s testimony and Jesus’ invitation. It shows how God’s work often begins in human relationships and community. Andrew’s immediate response to the call to follow Jesus demonstrates discipleship as a path of response to witness. It also begins the Peter–Andrew dynamic that becomes central to the Gospel’s early church-building narrative. Theologically, Andrew’s background as a fisherman-turned-disciple foregrounds the universal calling: Christ invites people from all walks of life into his mission.
For today, Andrew’s example invites us to be attentive to the people in our own networks who sense something compelling about Jesus. Do you have a friend or coworker who “hears” about Jesus from someone else and then decides to explore? You can accompany them into that journey—with hospitality, listening, and honest questions. Practical steps: invite them to join you for a relaxed conversation after church; share a simple meal and talk about who Jesus is in your life; offer to read a gospel passage together. The focus is on helping others move from hearing about Jesus to taking steps of following him, as Andrew did. Be ready to point to Jesus and to stand with them as they begin this new way of life.
Cross-References: John 1:37-42; John 1:29-36; Luke 5:1-11; Mark 1:16-18; Matthew 4:18-22