Philip the Evangelist

All Christians are called to reach out to the world, telling others about Christ's gospel. Those who are directly or indirectly doing the work have obeyed the call to evangelize . We can verbally proclaim the good news or support the mission with prayers and resources. Acts 8:6 - The people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracle. The followings are discussed: Deacon and Family; Evangelising Samaria, and Ministering to Ethiopian

Deacon and Family: At the outset of evangelism, many souls were won for God through the preachings of the apostles and testimonies of believers and there was increase in the activities of the Early Church. As a result, some aspects of welfare seemed to have been been neglected. When the apostles were hinted to look into the situation they chose seven spirit-filled and godly men and gave them the duty of meeting needs of the needy (Act 6 1-7). The apostles were relieved of the overwhelming responsibilities when they gave devout believers part to play in the ministry. Philip was among those selected. Persons of good character and whose lifestyles match profession of christian faith must be considered for spiritual leadership.

Philip is referenced as an outstanding evangelist because of his commitment and good legacy passed to his family. Apostle Paul and those working with him credited Philip for training his four daughters and making them to take part in the ministry (Acts 21:8-9). He taught his household the importance of seeking God and his daughters became  perfect example of a fulfilled prophesy (Joel 2:29). Christian families must ensure members are well trained for spiritual well-being and guided to walk with God (Proverbs 22:6).

Evangelising Samaria: The Early Church faced serious persecution from those who were opposed to the good news. Despite the hostility apostles and evangelists could not be stopped because they were strengthened in God and allowed Holy Spirit to work with them. When Stephen was stoned to death, others waxed stronger and continued. Philip didn't compromise faith in fear of the persecution, he continued to proclaim the gospel and the power of Holy Spirit backed his ministry. His ministry was accompanied by miraculous signs and wonders (Acts 8:4-8 ). He healed incurable diseases and destroyed  demonic powers. God demonstrated His sovereignty over the physical and the spiritual through Philip's ministry.

Simon the sorcerer was among the people converted through Philip's ministry. The people of Samaria had believed that sorcery power, magic, fortune-telling and witchcraft were miracles from God (Acts 8:9-13). When Philip entered the town preaching Christ and performing miracles the people saw far greater miracles and were convinced of the real power of God.  Philip's message was based on God and he didn't take the glory for the miracles God performed through him. The people who had followed Simon turned to Christ and were baptised. They got out of the darkness and entered into the spiritual light of Christ's gospel.

Ministering to Ethiopian:  After the spiritual revival in Samaria God directed Philip to go and meet Ethiopian steward who was reading but couldn't understand Isaiah's prophecy about the Messiah (Isaiah 53). Philip explained the scripture and the man understood how it was fulfilled (Acts 8:26-35). We can explain the scripture through preparation and divine direction. Preparation can't be enough to explain everything or give answers to all questions, but through the leading of God's Spirit we can do our best. Close relationship with God brings about hearing from Him and receiving the direction.

The Ethiopian steward faithfully responded to the good news and followed Philip to be baptised (Acts 8:36-40). Philip's story reminds us that we may not need a perfect circumstance or ideal setting to preach and win souls for Christ. We can meet people where they are, preaching the good news for repentance, new living and salvation. God equips those who are willing to do the work no matter the constraints. Seize opportunity to do the work as given the grace. Lesson texts: Acts 6:1-7; 8:4-40; 21:8-9.