Conversion of Andrew and Simon

The gospel of John gives the reason for the book: that those who do not believe would come to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and be saved from their sins, delivered from death and have life in his name (20:31). John presents not just miracles but also encounters with individuals to prove his thesis. We see Nicodemus and the woman at the well. In every single encounter, we are brought to see that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. In particular, we are looking at the conversion of Andrew and Simon. What do these encounters teach us about Christ?

1. We find a Christ that comes
   Christ is the promised Savior. He comes willingly as the Lamb of God. We cannot pander to man's depravity in the preaching of God's Word. He is the one who fulfilled all the types and shadows of the OT. We think of the Lamb of God in Genesis 22 and the scapegoat in Leviticus. There is a Lamb not just for Israel but also for the Gentile.

2. We find a Christ who provokes confession
   "We have found the Messiah..." Andrew believed the word he heard about Christ. Conversion produces a spirit of humble learning. These are words spoken in great delight. Christ is the pearl of great price.

3. We find a Christ that invites communion
   "What seek ye?" This is a test of their motivation. There is a faith that is not saving faith. There are people that are moved by the miracles but have no affection for his person. Andrew and Simon became so convinced of who he was that they wanted to dwell and commune with him. He is a conquering Redeemer who invites his people to dwell with Him.

4. We find a Christ that sovereignly changes sinners