John 1:40

One of the two which heard John [speak], and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.

One {G1520} of {G1537} the two {G1417} which {G3588} heard {G191}{G3844} John {G2491} speak, and {G2532} followed {G190} him {G846}, was {G2258} Andrew {G406}, Simon {G4613} Peter's {G4074} brother {G80}.

One of the two who had heard Yochanan and had followed Yeshua was Andrew the brother of Shim‘on Kefa.

Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s testimony and followed Jesus.

One of the two that heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.

Commentary

John 1:40 introduces us to one of the first individuals who became a disciple of Jesus Christ, marking a pivotal moment in the formation of Jesus' inner circle. The verse identifies Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, as one of the two unnamed disciples who were initially followers of John the Baptist but, upon hearing John's testimony, turned to follow Jesus.

Context

This verse is situated in the very early stages of Jesus' public ministry, specifically in the region near the Jordan River, where John the Baptist was baptizing and proclaiming the coming of the Messiah. John's role was to prepare the way and point people to Jesus, as highlighted in John 1:29 where he identifies Jesus as "the Lamb of God." It was common for aspiring students to attach themselves to a respected rabbi or teacher, and these disciples of John were now transitioning their allegiance to Jesus, recognizing His greater authority and divine identity.

Key Themes

  • The Initiation of Discipleship: This verse beautifully illustrates the initial step of discipleship: hearing the call and responding. Andrew and the other disciple's immediate response to follow Jesus sets a pattern for future believers.
  • The Role of John the Baptist: John's ministry was foundational. He faithfully pointed his own disciples towards Jesus, demonstrating true humility and understanding of his purpose.
  • Andrew's Significance: Though often overshadowed by his more prominent brother, Simon Peter, Andrew plays a crucial role here. He is among the very first to recognize and follow Jesus, and his next action, as seen in John 1:41, is to bring his brother to Jesus, showcasing the power of personal witness and evangelism.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "followed him" (Greek: ἠκολούθησαν, ēkolouthēsan) implies more than just walking behind Jesus. It signifies a decisive commitment to become His student or adherent, indicating a readiness to learn from and emulate Him. This verb is consistently used in the Gospels to describe those who became Jesus' disciples, emphasizing a dedication to His teachings and way of life.

Practical Application

John 1:40 reminds us that faith often begins with hearing a testimony, whether from a preacher like John the Baptist or from a friend or family member. Andrew's story encourages believers to be open to following Christ when He calls, and to consider their role in sharing their faith with others, particularly those closest to them. Just as Andrew brought Simon Peter to Jesus, we are called to be bridges, connecting others to the Savior. This act of personal evangelism is a cornerstone of Christian life, demonstrating the ripple effect of one person's decision to follow Jesus.

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Cross-References

  • Mark 1:16 (8 votes)

    Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

  • Mark 1:20 (8 votes)

    And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.

  • Matthew 4:18 (6 votes)

    ¶ And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

  • Matthew 4:22 (6 votes)

    And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.

  • John 1:40 (4 votes)

    One of the two which heard John [speak], and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.

  • John 1:42 (4 votes)

    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.

  • Luke 5:2 (3 votes)

    And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing [their] nets.