What is the meaning of John 1:40? Andrew • John presents Andrew as an individual with a name worth remembering. By naming him first, Scripture reminds us that God notes personal faith decisions (see John 6:8; John 12:22). • Andrew’s very name appears again and again linked to bringing others to Jesus, hinting that discipleship isn’t a private hobby but an outward-looking mission. Simon Peter’s brother • Andrew is identified through his relationship to Simon Peter (Matthew 4:18; 1 Corinthians 1:12). Peter will later dominate the narrative, but here Andrew shines first. • The wording teaches that kingdom significance isn’t measured by fame. God often works through the “less prominent” to launch great movements (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:22-24). • Family ties become gospel bridges: Andrew’s first instinct is to introduce his brother to Christ (John 1:41-42). was one of the two • The “two” refers back to John 1:35-39, where two of John the Baptist’s disciples spend a day with Jesus. One is Andrew; the other is likely the unnamed disciple who later writes this Gospel. • This subtle note underscores eyewitness reliability: John records what he personally experienced (John 19:35). • God’s pattern: He often starts small—two seekers become pillars who help turn the world upside down (Acts 17:6). who heard John’s testimony • Faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). Andrew listened to John the Baptist’s declaration: “Look, the Lamb of God!” (John 1:36). • John’s role was never to gather followers for himself but to direct them to Christ (John 3:30). Andrew’s response demonstrates the proper reaction to faithful preaching: move toward Jesus, not merely admire the messenger. • The chain of witness continues: John testifies to Andrew, Andrew to Peter, Peter to thousands (Acts 2:41). and followed Jesus • “Followed” marks a decisive shift of allegiance—Andrew leaves the forerunner for the Messiah (Luke 5:11). • Discipleship in John always carries relational and transformative weight (John 8:12; 10:27). Andrew’s step models immediate obedience. • Jesus never turns away sincere seekers (John 6:37). One simple act of following opens a lifetime of revelation (John 1:39) and fruitfulness (John 6:9-13). summary John 1:40 spotlights Andrew’s quiet but pivotal moment: hearing faithful testimony, he personally responds and becomes a link in God’s unfolding plan. The verse teaches that God values individual choices, uses ordinary relationships for extraordinary influence, and calls every listener to move from hearing about Jesus to actively following Him. |
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