v. 1 No doubt his approval of Stephen’s execution stuck with Paul for the rest of his life. It is all to God’s glory that a man so zealous to destroy the church would be a primary instrument through which the church would be built up throughout the ages. The Lord uses the most unlikely of men and women to build up His kingdom. 1 Corinthians 1:26-31.

v. 1 It is interesting to note that the apostles were able to remain in Jerusalem. Some have suggested that this is because the persecution arose especially against the believing Hellenists. This seems likely, because the rest of this chapter deals with Philip’s travels–and he was a Greek-speaking Jew. During this time, the believing Jewish church still retained much of their Jewishness. Therefore, persecution against them was not nearly as strong, not to mention they had a much greater hold in the community.

v. 3 In just a few months, he would be entering house to house in order to persuade them that Jesus is the Christ! How awesome is our God! Is anything too hard for Him?

v. 4 Persecution was used here to spread the Word of God to the Gentiles. Persecution is still used to take the Word of God to where it needs to go. Think of all the Christians that go to prison and share the gospel in prison. Maybe one of the reasons why the Lord stirs up persecution is to make His people go where they are so slow to go! There are surely seasons of persecution that in some respect are works of discipline for our disobedience. That is not to say that this is the case here, but it is surely a possibility. Either way, we can be sure that no matter where we are headed, we are commanded to preach the Word–to present Jesus Christ (just as Philip did– v. 5).

v. 6 The Lord always wants His Word accompanied by power. And even if we are not working miracles, we ought to be living lives of power–lives that bear witness to a supernatural work. For apart from this kind of life, what can we really witness to?

v. 7 Christians are called to make the world as it ought to be. We are the agents through which the Lord is going to make thing as they ought to be. Not fully now, but we ought to be working towards it nonetheless. Wellness and wholeness are not abstractions. Disease is. In every sphere of life, we ought to be working to subdue the earth and exercise dominion over it in such a way that the common good is served and the glory of God revealed. v. 8 And when we do so, there will be great joy.

v. 13 Simon was pursuing the loaves.

v. 14 The apostles were sent to authenticate this message to a certain degree. Or maybe the Holy Spirit was withheld for the sake of the Jewish church, so that they might realize that the Lord clearly brought the same blessing upon the Gentiles.

v. 20 Peter wasn’t shy in his rebuke at all. We are probably much too shy in many a situation. A sharp rebuke is a godly and needed thing. Who is dishing such rebukes out today?

v. 24 You have to wonder what ever became of Simon.

v. 25 It is interesting to note that they were already familiar with these regions, because Jesus had led them through there.

v. 27 Philip immediately obeys. Imagine the timing to all these events. Just think of all the little details that had to lead to this encounter. Then think of your day today, all the ‘random’ events that work out precisely according to plan–God’s plan. Sure, Philip was called to go, but the timing of it all is awesome indeed, particularly when you consider all the unmentioned details that went into this encounter. Let us never tire of praising God for His sovereign wisdom and His precise providence!

v. 27 Notice also that this man was prepared to hear the message of the gospel. His heart was humble, prepared, ready. Before the Lord saves a man through the gospel, He prepares His heart to receive the message of the gospel. And He does so in a thousand big and small ways. Regeneration occurs in a moment, but preparation for that moment entails the whole of one’s life.

v. 30 What are the ‘chances’ of him reading this precise prophecy at this precise moment? Let us rejoice in the ‘coincidences’ of life.

v. 31 We all need teachers. This to me commends the reading of many books. Not too many books, but many nonetheless.

v. 31 His invitation to Philip is a clear indication of his humble heart. He knew he needed help.

v. 35 We ought to be able to present the gospel beginning with any Scripture.

v. 37 Those who truly receive the gospel will be jealous to obey. This also indicates that Philip had told him of his need to be baptized.