The Book of Acts

Philip Preaches in Samaria

Acts 8:4-25 _NLT

“...the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went. Philip, for example, went to the city of Samaria and told the people there about the Messiah.”- Acts 8:4-5

            The Philip spoken of in this section of scripture is not the apostle Philip but rather one of the seven wise and spirit-filled men picked to handle the food distribution in the church. Persecution chased him from his home in Jerusalem, so he fled to the neighboring region of Samaria where he continued to preach about Jesus the Messiah. This was an interesting move considering the age-old prejudice against the “half-breed” Samaritans.

            Upon hearing of Philip’s work in Samaria, Peter and John went to evaluate his ministry there. They were favorably impressed and stayed on to assist for a while. They saw firsthand God’s acceptance of those people the Jews had considered unacceptable.

            As believers in Christ, we must never assume one group is not worthy of knowing our Lord as many Jews thought of the Samaritans. They were wrong to think such things, and so would we be with any group or individual we might avoid, not wanting to enlighten them as to things salvation God offers thru the blood of Christ. This would be wrong. Allow yourself to be led by God’s Spirit to whomever he would like you to go to.

            There is a mention of Simon, who had been a great sorcerer. He had done great and mighty wonders only not with the power from God, but from Satan instead. He was converted and baptized by Philip and followed him as he ministered throughout Samaria. One day Simon came to the apostles and after seeing all the astonishing works done in the name of God, offered to pay money for this power. Peter rebuked Simon, declaring “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God’s can be bought. You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God.” He then told Simon to repent that God may forgive him, for it was obvious to the apostle that he was jealous of this power and held captive by sin. Simon asked Peter to pray for him. Both apostles Peter and John then returned to Jerusalem, stopping in many Samaritan villages along the way to preach the gospel.

            It should never be assumed that all power in the spirit will be granted to just anyone. You first must be born again of the spirit. Then you must have a sincere and hungry heart to do that which is pleasing to God and God alone. Notoriety is completely unnecessary. People need to know who Jesus is, not who you are. The Lord knows our heart’s motivation. Surrender your will in favor of knowing and acting upon God’s will instead. That is where the greatest fulfillment lies. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: Life Application Study Bible