In Search Of Truth, Acts 8

Acts, Chapter 8





This chapter begins by describing persecution of Jewish Christians that resulted in scattering believers into Judea and Samaria. Although they didn't plan it this way, this would be how Jesus' words in Acts 1:8 would begin to unfold. We're also kept up to date with Saul's story. He was present for and in approval of Stephen's execution and afterward began a mission to take Christians from their homes and put them in jail.


To avoid imprisonment or other danger, believers escaped to Judea and Samaria. One of these escaping Christians was Philip. This isn't the Apostle Philip. This Philip was among the seven men chosen to help administer food on behalf of the Apostles. (See chapter 6.) Despite the cultural tension between Jews and Samaritans, Philip began sharing the truth with those he met in Samaria.


We see in verses 14-18 that although these Samaritans apparantly believed in Jesus and the words taught by Philip, they didn't immediately receive the Holy Spirit. Over time, there has been room left here for different views on why this would be the case. The concepts of the Holy Spirit and how he operates in our world today are exciting and valuable to study. Although there isn't room here to do the topic justice, we tend to lean toward a view presented by Wayne Grudem's "Systematic Theology". He suggests that God chose to delay the arrival of the Holy Spirit in this case so that the highest leaders of the Jerusalem church would be present when the Holy Spirit came. This would allow them to be direct witnesses to the fact that Samaritan believers are not "second class Christians" but are as much a part of Christ's church as anyone.


Simon, a man practicing sorcery, saw the miraculous power that Philip displayed and like many, becamed convinced of his message regarding Jesus. When he saw that the Holy Spirit came to people after the Apostles layed their hands on them, he offered to pay the Apostles for the power to do what they did. Peter saw Simon's motives and condemned his behavior.


This interaction between Simon and Peter gives us a good opportunity to check our own motives. We may have reasoned out in our minds that we want to serve God by taking some action or joining some church ministry. But is there even the slightest chance that we're also aiming to have the attention and compliments of others? Is there a part of us that wants to be looked up to and admired? Other people may not be able to see our motives, but God can. And we have little reason to think he'll back our ministry efforts if our motives aren't focused in the right direction.


Finally, Philip provides a great example that Christians can aspire to. He's ready at a moment's notice to share the truth. And notice that his "readiness" isn't just about being outgoing enough to talk to a stranger. He had obviously spent enough time reading and studying scripture that he could use the passage of scripture a stranger was reading to explain who Jesus is and what relevance he has for all of humanity. As the result of Philip's willingness and knowledge, God used him to bring the truth to someone that may have never learned it otherwise.


Wouldn't that be amazing if we challenged ourselves to be more like Philip? Granted, teleportation will likely not become a regular part of our lives, but we might just be astounded by what God is willing to use us for.


Coffee House Question:


Who is someone in your life that you wish you could be more like? In what way?



Next Week: The Transformation of Saul!