By Kelly Wise Valdes
There has been much public speculation recently regarding the selection process for the Apostles of Jesus. However, there is now official word that the first Apostle to follow Jesus is the Disciple Andrew from Bethsaida.
Further recognition came from Jonah and Joanna, Andrew’s parents. They also confirmed that their other son, Simon Peter, has left the family fishing business at the Sea of Galilee to also join Jesus. In fact, two additional partners in the fishing business, James and John are also reported to be joining Jesus.
In recent months there was much allegation regarding Andrew’s role on Jesus’ ever-forming team. But, neighbors, co-workers and family members have all corroborated that Andrew was the first of the Apostles to follow Jesus. In fact, Andrew is thought to have encouraged Simon Peter, James and John to join the group.
Because of Andrew’s ability to bring people to Jesus combined with his profession, Jesus referred to him as a “fisher of men.”
According to eyewitnesses, Andrew was baptized by John the Baptist. In the Greek Orthodox tradition he is known as Protoklete, which literally means “the first-called.”
“Andrew is truly a man of faith and hope,” said his neighbor, Sarah. “One day he heard John the Baptist proclaiming Jesus as the Lamb of God and his life changed.”
It is reported that Jesus is still in the Apostle selection process. Those selected to be close associates of Christ will receive special training and as well as special blessings.
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Jesus inspired 12 ordinary men to leave their old lives behind and become followers of Him. Among these new followers were fishermen, a tax collector and a revolutionary. The Gospels record the failings, struggles and doubts of these twelve men who followed Jesus. This series will document one of the disciples each month in a fun way in order to learn more about how God turned each man from ordinary to extraordinary.
