The Gospels provide various insights into how Peter, James, John, and Andrew came to know Jesus before deciding to follow Him. Here's a breakdown of these insights:
Andrew and Peter:
John 1:35-42: Andrew was initially a disciple of John the Baptist. John the Baptist pointed out Jesus as the "Lamb of God," which led Andrew to follow Jesus. After spending time with Jesus, Andrew went to find his brother Simon (Peter) and told him, "We have found the Messiah" (that is, the Christ). He then brought Peter to Jesus.
John 1:40-42: "Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. 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)."
James and John:
Although there is no specific account in the Gospels of how James and John initially met Jesus, it is clear from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) that they were called by Jesus while they were working as fishermen. Given the close-knit nature of the communities around the Sea of Galilee, it is likely that they had already heard about Jesus and His teachings or miracles before their formal call to discipleship.
General Context:
John the Baptist's Ministry: Many of Jesus' first disciples, including Andrew, were initially followers of John the Baptist. John's testimony about Jesus as the Lamb of God and the one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit helped prepare the way for Jesus' ministry (John 1:29-37).
Jesus' Early Miracles and Teachings: Jesus had already begun His public ministry, performing miracles and teaching with authority, which would have attracted attention and curiosity among the people, including future disciples like Peter, James, John, and Andrew.
In summary, the initial encounters with Jesus, His reputation as a teacher and miracle worker, and the testimonies of figures like John the Baptist contributed to Peter, James, John, and Andrew recognizing who Jesus was and deciding to follow Him.
For summary of Lesson 2, a video, and the Sabbath School Lessons, go here: https://the-undercover-adventist.blogspot.com/2024/07/sabbath-school-lesson-2-day-in-ministry.html