Andrew – Peter's Brother, the First-Called Disciple

Key Moments in Andrew’s Life

The First-Called – Disciple of John the Baptist

Andrew was the brother of Simon Peter and a native of Bethsaida in Galilee (John 1:44). Before meeting Jesus, Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist. One day John saw Jesus passing by and declared: “Behold the Lamb of God!” Andrew and another disciple heard this and immediately followed Jesus (John 1:35–40).

Andrew was therefore the **first-called** disciple — before his brother Peter and before James and John left their nets. He spent the day with Jesus and then went to find Peter with the joyful news: “We have found the Messias” (which means Christ) (John 1:41–42). Andrew brought Peter to Jesus, and Jesus gave Peter his new name.

This pattern of **bringing others to Jesus** becomes the defining mark of Andrew’s ministry throughout the Gospels. He was never the center of attention like Peter or John, but he had a consistent, quiet gift for introduction.

The Call by the Sea – Leaving the Nets

Later, Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee and saw Andrew and Peter casting nets. He called them: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him (Matthew 4:18–20; Mark 1:16–18).

Andrew had already been following Jesus for some time, but this was the decisive, permanent call to leave his trade and become a full-time disciple. He and Peter were among the very first to respond to this direct invitation. Their immediate obedience is emphasized in all three Synoptic Gospels.

Feeding the 5,000 – Bringing the Boy to Jesus

When Jesus wanted to feed the large crowd, Philip estimated the cost. Andrew, however, found a practical solution: “There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?” (John 6:8–9).

Andrew didn’t have much faith in the small amount, but he **brought the boy and his lunch to Jesus** anyway. This simple act of bringing what little was available set the stage for one of Jesus’ greatest miracles. Andrew’s pattern is clear: find someone or something, bring it to Jesus, and let Jesus do the rest.

The Greeks Who Sought Jesus

In the final week of Jesus’ ministry, some Greeks came seeking Him. They approached Philip (possibly because of his Greek name) and said: “Sir, we would see Jesus.” Philip told Andrew, and together they brought the Greeks to Jesus (John 12:20–22).

Andrew again plays the role of connector. He doesn’t try to answer their request himself — he takes them straight to Jesus. This incident immediately precedes Jesus’ announcement that “the hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified” — the moment the gospel begins to go global.

Questions on the Mount of Olives

Andrew was one of four disciples (with Peter, James, and John) who privately asked Jesus about the signs of the end times after He predicted the destruction of the temple (Mark 13:3–4). This question led to the Olivet Discourse — Jesus’ extended teaching on the end times and His return.

Andrew’s inclusion in this intimate conversation shows he was part of the inner circle at key moments. His curiosity about the future reflects a thoughtful, seeking faith.

Andrew’s Ministry & Later Life

After the resurrection, Andrew is listed among the apostles in the upper room (Acts 1:13). Early church tradition says he preached in Scythia (modern Ukraine/Russia), Greece, and Asia Minor. He is especially associated with the city of Patras in Achaia (Greece), where he was martyred.

Tradition holds that Andrew was crucified on an X-shaped cross (now called St. Andrew’s Cross) after preaching for two days while bound to the cross. He reportedly said: “I have long desired and expected this happy hour.” His martyrdom is dated around AD 60–70. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, Russia, Greece, and fishermen.

Death & Legacy

Andrew was crucified on an X-shaped cross in Patras, Greece, around AD 60–70. According to tradition, he preached for two full days while bound to the cross before dying. His final words reportedly expressed joy at finally being united with his Lord.

Andrew’s legacy is beautifully simple: he was the apostle of **introduction**. He brought Peter to Jesus, brought the boy with loaves and fish, brought the Greeks to Jesus — and tradition says he brought countless others through his missionary work. He never sought prominence; he simply pointed people to Christ. In a world obsessed with being the center of attention, Andrew shows the power of humble, faithful witness. His life can be summed up in five words he spoke early in the Gospel: “Come and see.” Those words changed history.