Ethiopian Conversations

02.01.13

Acts 8.35 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. (ESV)

Acts 8 is basically split into three parts: the persecution, the proclamation, and the presentation. First, the persecution (Acts 8.1-3) breaks out in Jerusalem against the early church where we are introduced to a zealous, religious maniac named, Saul (of Tarsus). The church is scattered to avoid the persecution but as they flee they share the message of Jesus wherever they go.

Next, the proclamation (Acts  8.4-25) is when Philip the Deacon (one of the Hellenistic believers mentioned in Acts 6) flees to Samaria and proclaims the message of Jesus among the Samaritans and there is a great harvest of souls in Samaria for the Kingdom.

And then there is the presentation (Acts 8.26-40) where this same Philip goes from Samaria down to the road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza where he encounters an Ethiopian court official who’s been converted to Judaism. The Ethiopian is reading the Scripture (the Old Testament) and seems to be struggling with what he is reading. Philip comes alongside his chariot and asks, “Do you understand what you are reading?” Ah, Philip! How wonderful that you came along just now!

To many people the Scripture is confusing. To many people they ask – like this Ethiopian here – “How can I unless someone guides me?” Philip understood the Scripture, the Ethiopian didn’t. And so Philip not only explained the passage to this man but he started in that very spot and explained the whole gospel about Jesus to him as well. The whole of Scripture – warts and all – is a presentation of the Christ. And when someone knows that and can do that, the light comes on for others who will then be taught to know and do.

So I am led to the following: I must use the skill and ability God has given me to have Ethiopian conversations with people around me today who can’t quite put all the pieces together. I must serve my church by helping people understand the Biblical expectations that are placed upon their lives as they give themselves to Christ. And I must serve by encouraging people to engage with the Scripture so that they can help the confused ‘Ethiopians’ they encounter.

The Ethiopian asks a great question in response to Philip’s “Do you understand what you’re reading?” He asks, “How can I unless someone helps me?” Guess what – guides are needed!

I am reminded today of why it is so vital for men and women of Christ to read and study and meditate and reflect on the Word of God: so they can help others who are struggling to understand what they are reading, who want to give up because it seems so confusing.

Lord, may we be faithful in committing ourselves to Your word and faithful in following the Spirit’s leading by helping others understand. The greatest gift You’ve given us is Yourself, and may we joyfully and urgently help those to whom You revealed Yourself … that they may know and understand…amen!