ANDREW DINNER

John 1:41-42 (NIV) “ The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah.” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon, son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter.)

The Bible says that Andrew brought his brother Simon to introduce him to Jesus. This is an interesting story of a person’s desire for the good of his brother. There was no selfishness in it. He had discovered something and he wanted to share this to his brother. He was persuaded that knowing JESUS was more important than anything else. That is why he would do everything to bring his brother to Jesus.

The word “BROUGHT” was from the original Greek which was a verb that means, “to lead by accompanying to a place…” – it means “to move” “to impel” “to influence…” When Andrew brought his brother Simon to Jesus, it was not an easy matter to do. In order for him to do so, he had to overcome some form of resistance on Simon’s part.

Simon was at first resisting the invitation of Andrew to introduce him to Jesus. But ultimately, with a little persuasion and much patience, Andrew won him over. Simon finally came with him to see Jesus. And we know from history that Simon became one of the pillars of Christianity. Thanks to Andrews help.

In the same manner, we have come up with an Andrew Dinner last October 2 for the same purpose. We wanted to bring people to Christ. We then invited our friends, relatives, office mates and acquaintances to attend our Sunday fellowship and give them free dinner. There was nothing more important than to see them come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior also.

Our program included the choir who sung “In the Fullness of Time” then special songs from Jun Tuazon (He will Carry You), George Migala and Jason Co (Amazing Grace). In addition, the New Hope tambourine dancers performed their best piece. The birthday celebrants were then prayed for. Then, Cherry Wee shared her testimony of transformation. When the challenge to receive the way of salvation was given, it was such a sight to see the people who came forward to receive Christ in their lives and some to rededicate their lives to Jesus.

Truly, Christ is the way, the truth and the life, no one can come to the Father except through Christ.

Like Andrew, we must continue to bring our friends and introduce them to Christ. Have you? I hope you do.