Philip and the Ethiopian - Pastor Bradley Peters

This morning, we celebrated the joy of new life in our church family and the privilege of worshiping our awesome God together. As we explored the story of Philip in Acts, we were reminded that questions are not the enemy of faith—rather, it is the posture of our hearts that determines whether our questions lead us to cynicism or to deeper curiosity and growth in Christ. The early church faced real challenges, including favoritism and division, but the Spirit led them to appoint men full of faith and wisdom, like Stephen and Philip, to serve and bring unity. This same Spirit calls us to examine our own hearts and church practices, ensuring that we do not show partiality or allow disputes to distract us from the ministry of the Word.

Philip’s journey took him from serving tables in Jerusalem to preaching the gospel in Samaria, a place once despised by the Jews. The transformation of the apostles, especially James and John—who once wanted to call down fire on the Samaritans but later laid hands on them to receive the Holy Spirit—shows the radical inclusivity of God’s kingdom. The gospel breaks down barriers, welcoming those who were once outsiders, and reminds us that we, too, are recipients of undeserved grace.

We also considered the story of Simon the Sorcerer, who tried to buy the power of the Holy Spirit. This challenges us to reflect on our own motives: do we serve God out of love, or are we trying to earn His favor through our works or offerings? True repentance and transformation come not from transactional faith, but from a heart surrendered to Christ.

Finally, the encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch reveals the heart of God for those who feel excluded or barren. The eunuch, reading Isaiah, finds hope in the promise that God gives an everlasting name and legacy to those who trust Him, regardless of their earthly circumstances. Whether we are single, childless, or feel like outsiders, our true inheritance is found in Christ. Philip’s faithfulness led to the gospel spreading far beyond Jerusalem, reminding us that our influence in God’s kingdom is not measured by earthly standards, but by our obedience and love for Jesus.