When Andy Griffith died, my mind was flooded with the memories of watching him and Barney do their thing in Mayberry. And I thought of somethings Andy did that would help the church…
1. Never carry a gun
I loved the way Andy could keep the peace, protect the innocent and catch the bad guys…without a gun.
In the church world, we could learn from that. People don’t respond very well to force or a show of force. If we are patient and let others “catch it” and not force it, we will see a greater return.
2. Be loyal to your right-hand
Andy was very loyal to Barney. It didn’t matter how many mistakes he would make, he believed in him, and Barney became better because of Andy’s investment in him.Â
Look for those that may not fit around you now, but with some investment, will prove to be your greatest asset.Â
3. Don’t be defensive
I never saw Andy get offended when someone didn’t go with his idea or would out right criticize it.Â
Being defensive is a sure sign  of immaturity and pride. If it’s God’s thing, then let Him take an offense at the lack of faith on the part of some, we aren’t given that right. People follow those who follow God.Â
4. Be Deeply involved in the community
No matter what was going on, Andy showed his support. In doing so, he earned the right to lead others outside and inside the community.
People go to where they are loved. The more involved we are in the lives of those around us, who aren’t in the Kingdon, the more likely it is they will become members of the kingdom!
5. befriend the “crazies”
Do you remember Earnest T. Bass? The little  “crazy” guy always running around throwing rocks? It seemed no one liked him but Andy. And Andy was the only one he would listen to.
Love the un-loveable, and even the un-loveable will love you, and find the Jesus in you.Â
6. Never show partiality
Andy never spoke ill of anyone, rather he accepted all as equals no matter their beliefs or creed, or color.Â
People are drawn to those that accept the just as they are! Now there is a huge difference between acceptance and approval. We must accept everyone, even though we may not approve of their decisions or lifestyle. Jesus did that very thing!Â
7. Always love first
Andy was a great example of not just loving in word, but also in deed.Â
If we are to radically change our communities and grow the Kingdom of God, Love will be preeminent. Love is at the core and essence of God’s heart. If we always love first, the end will much more likely result in the growth of Jesus’ church.Â
Can you think of another trait you saw in Mayberry that would help your church?
Do all of the things you mentioned with CONSISTENCY! People can recognize when we simply put on a show. Treat others the same way every time you’re around them. Most people don’t care to be around “some timey” people.
Great post Artie!
I loved (and still do love) the show. Appreciate your lessons drawn from such good memories. True lessons.
Thanks John
Do all of the things you mentioned with CONSISTENCY! People can recognize when we simply put on a show. Treat others the same way every time you’re around them. Most people don’t care to be around “some timey” people.
Great post Artie!
Thanks Mike, you are living the dream bro, very proud of you!
As an avid Andy Griffith fan, I really like this post! Great new look too, BTW!
That means a lot coming from the “Media Mogul”
Great thoughts Artie! One that hit me was the simplicity of the life Andy lived. Sometimes I think we get so hi-tech that we rush around too much.
Thanks Bill.
Listen to and teach the children well. The way Andy took care of Oppie and other kids is a great lesson to the church.
That is a great addition Bernie, thanks.
Always eat delicious pie!
Ha! Love that.