Jesus’ Life: Chapter 20 – Early Spread Of Gospel By the Disciples
Another opportunity ensued for Philip, an Angel of the Lord appeared to him and told him to go to Gaza!
Philip, obedient to the Lord, got up and went.
On the road, he met an Ethiopian eunuch, sitting on a chariot and reading the Bible. The eunuch was an important court official in charge of the treasury of the Queen of the Ethiopians and he was returning from a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
The Holy Spirit told Philip, “Go over and join the Chariot”. As Philip approached, he heard the eunuch reading from Isaiah so, he asked him if he understood what it all meant. The eunuch replied, “How in the world can I, unless someone guides me!” He then invited Philip to sit on the chariot beside him and help. (Acts 8:29, 31)
Philip accepted his invite and happily explained the meaning of the passage he was reading:
“He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and like a lamb, before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. In humiliation, justice was taken from him. Who can describe his posterity? For his life was taken away from the earth”. (Acts 8:32-33; Isaiah 53:7-8)
Philips guidance naturally led to explain the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy and the proclamation of Jesus’ Gospel; the eunuch listened and believed Jesus’ teachings.
Arriving at a place where there was water, the eunuch asked, “What is to prevent me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36) Philip and the eunuch stopped the chariot, dismounted and Philip baptised him.
When Philip and the eunuch came out of the water, “The Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him any more, but went on his way rejoicing” – he had lost Philip but found Jesus Christ and he now had more work to do, telling others about Jesus! (Acts 8:39)
Philip’s work didn’t end there either. He continued on his travels through other towns and villages, teaching and baptising, until he came to Caesarea. (Acts 8:26-40)
Thought
Everyone can be a good teacher!
Reflection
Lord Jesus, help me to be a light to my family, friends and strangers. Grant me the wisdom to know how to help those who yearn to understand your Gospel and look to me for guidance. Amen.
Prayer: Perseverance (St Alphonsus Liguori)
Our Dear Redeemer,
relying on your promises,
because you are faithful, all-powerful and merciful,
we hope, through the merits of your Passion,
for the forgiveness of our sins,
perseverance until death in your grace;
and at length, we hope, by your mercy,
to see and love you eternally in heaven.