Mark 3:18

Andrew. Gr. Andreas, meaning “manly,” a Greek name from aner, “a man.” Though one of the earliest followers of Jesus (see John 1:35-40), Andrew did not become one of the inner circle (DA 292) and is seldom mentioned in the gospel narrative. Most of what we know of him comes from John (see chs. 1:40, 41, 44; 6:8; 12:22). Matthew and Luke list Andrew as the second of the Twelve disciples, probably to associate him with his brother Peter. For Andrew’s family background see on Mark 3:16. Andrew appears to have been a diligent worker, though perhaps not so gifted in qualities of leadership as his brother. According to tradition he was martyred in Greece on a cross in the shape of the letter X — as a result of which a cross shaped thus is commonly known as St. Andrew’s cross.

Philip. Gr. Philippos, “fond of horses,” like “Andrew,” a genuine Greek name. Philip was a native of Bethsaida Julias (see John 1:44), near the northern end of the Lake of Galilee. Most of what we know about Philip before Christ’s ascension comes to us through the record of the Gospel of John (see chs. 1:43-48; 6:5-7; 12:21, 22; 14:8, 9).

He was the first to whom Jesus said, “Follow me” (John 1:43). He is characterized as a sincere seeker for truth, but apparently slower than some of the others to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and to appreciate the significance of His mission to earth (see John 6:7; 14:8, 9). He seems to have been at times uncertain as to what course of action to take (see John 12:21, 22). Nevertheless he was earnest, and when he had found the Messiah, immediately began bringing others to Him (see John 1:45).