In John we have recorded for us the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, His first disciples. There is an interesting pattern that stands out with the first followers of our Lord. One of the first ones who followed Jesus was a disciple of John by the name of Andrew. In verses 40-41 we read that Andrew… “found first his own brother Simon” and brought him to Jesus. At first glance there is not much here, but in verse 43 it begins to happen again. Phillip begins to follow Jesus and in verse 45, “Phillip found Nathaniel…” It’s happened again and a pattern appears. Each one find one, and watch the crowd grow!

We could stop there and encourage each one to make the personal application, but before we finish with what this pattern is, please note what it is not.

It is not a great new method. It is just simple conversation, communication. It is sharing some good news. It is one on one. I’ve heard a number of fellows over the years say they couldn’t get up in front of a crowd and teach, but I’ve yet to hear someone say, “I’m just not able to hold a conversation.” It’s not hard. It’s just talking. It doesn’t require any training, practice, classes, trial runs, or anything like that.

Also, please note that this invitation was NOT offered to many people. Andrew found Peter, Phillip found Nathaniel, one found one. In our culture of mass media and constant crowds and blending in with others, we often focus on getting the message out to thousands, if not millions. In so doing, it’s possible to overlook the one who is standing next to us. The one who already knows us and our life. The one who already trusts us. The one that is close by and the one who we look in the eye when we talk to them. I’m not decrying methods that reach multitudes when that is possible and expedient. I’m just saying that one is not a replacement for the other.

Lastly, I notice that when they “found” someone, it was NOT a stranger. Andrew and Phillip “found” someone they already knew, a brother, a friend, a co-worker, a neighbor. Is there someone near you that needs to be “found”? Don’t overlook them. The original method of saving the lost is with a little one on one conversation. Try it, and don’t be shocked if the response is positive.