Andrew of Bethsaida
- James Collazo
- Jun 5, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 14
Introduction
Andrew of Bethsaida (Hebrew: Andreyas mi-Beit Tzayda / Greek: Andreas apo Bēthsaida) was born around AD 1 in the Roman district of Gaulanitis. He was Peter's brother, and together they ran a fishing business on the Sea of Galilee. Their hometown was Bethsaida (John 1:44). Andrew became the first apostle Jesus called. His name (G406) comes from the Greek noun andros (G435), meaning "manly" or "masculine." Before Jesus called him, Andrew followed John the Baptist (John 1:35–40).
Andrew played a key role in the early stages of Jesus' ministry. He gained significance as the first disciple called by Jesus and for his eagerness to share the good news. After meeting Jesus, he immediately introduced his brother Simon to him. This encounter transformed Simon into Peter, whose confession became the foundation on which Jesus built his church (Matt. 16:13–20).
Andrew's readiness to introduce others to Jesus shows his deep faith and passion for spreading the life-changing message he had discovered. Throughout the gospels, Andrew acts as a bridge, connecting people to Jesus and facilitating encounters that shaped history. His humble yet powerful ministry reminds us how ordinary individuals can make a lasting impact when they respond faithfully to Christ's call.
Andrew: Bringing People to Jesus
The four gospel writers do not give many details about Andrew. Whenever they do mention him, he brings people to Jesus. This habit continues the "fishing for people" theme from when Jesus first called him (Matt. 4:17–19; Mark 1:15–17). When Jesus fed the crowd of five thousand, Andrew pointed out the boy with the fish and loaves of bread (John 6:5–9). Later, he introduced some Greek visitors to Jesus during the Passover festival, which helped set the stage for Jesus' crucifixion (John 12:20–22). Mark highlights Andrew's introduction of people to Jesus and connects it to Jesus' prediction of the destruction of the Jerusalem temple. However, the other three gospel writers do not mention Andrew in their Olivet Discourse passages (Matt. 24:1–25:46; Mark 13:1–37; Luke 21:5–36). Just as Andrew helped others grasp Jesus' teaching about the kingdom of heaven through the example of a grain of wheat (John 12:23–24), he also witnessed Jesus explain it with vivid, memorable images (Mark 13:3–8). Andrew models for us how to guide others to encounter Christ.
Conclusion
Andrew may not always receive prominent attention in the gospels, yet he consistently facilitated others' encounters with Jesus. He introduced his brother Simon Peter to the Messiah, participated in feeding the multitudes, and received Greek visitors seeking to meet Jesus. Andrew exemplifies how individuals can advance the gospel in ordinary circumstances—quietly connecting others to Christ, one person at a time. His humble dedication illustrates that influence does not require public recognition. May his example encourage us to follow Jesus faithfully and guide others toward God's love and grace.
Prayer
Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of heaven and earth. You offered your apostle, Andrew, grace to immediately follow Jesus and to bring others close to him. Grant us that same grace to follow you and lead others into your holy presence. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Bibliography
Hogue, Wayne A. "Andrew: The Disciple Who Brought People to Jesus." Wesley Center for Applied Theology, Northwest Nazarene University. [link].
Nelson, Ryan. "Who Was Andrew the Apostle? The Beginner's Guide." OverviewBible. June 17, 2019. [link].