Acts 8:5

Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them.

Study Bible

Philip
The name "Philip" is of Greek origin, meaning "lover of horses." In the context of the New Testament, Philip is one of the seven deacons chosen in Acts 6:5 to serve the early church. His role as a deacon highlights the importance of service and evangelism in the early Christian community. Philip's journey to Samaria marks a significant expansion of the Gospel beyond Jewish boundaries, demonstrating the inclusivity of the Christian message.

went down
The phrase "went down" is often used in the Bible to describe travel from Jerusalem, which is situated on a hill, to other regions. This geographical detail underscores the physical journey Philip undertakes, but it also symbolizes the spiritual journey of bringing the Gospel to new territories. The act of "going down" can be seen as a humble submission to God's call to spread His word.

to the city of Samaria
Samaria was a region with a complex history, often at odds with the Jewish people. The Samaritans were descendants of Israelites who had intermarried with foreign settlers, leading to religious and cultural tensions. By going to Samaria, Philip breaks through these historical barriers, embodying the message of reconciliation and unity found in Christ. This act fulfills Jesus' command in Acts 1:8 to be witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

and proclaimed
The Greek word for "proclaimed" is "kēryssō," which means to herald or announce publicly. This term is often used in the New Testament to describe the preaching of the Gospel. Philip's proclamation is not just a casual conversation but a bold declaration of the truth of Christ. It emphasizes the urgency and importance of sharing the Gospel message with clarity and conviction.

the Christ
"The Christ" refers to the Messiah, the Anointed One promised in the Hebrew Scriptures. By proclaiming "the Christ," Philip is identifying Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the Savior of the world. This declaration is central to the Christian faith, affirming Jesus' divine nature and redemptive work. It invites the Samaritans to recognize Jesus as their Lord and Savior, bridging the gap between their expectations and the reality of God's plan.

to them
The phrase "to them" highlights the personal and direct nature of Philip's mission. The Gospel is not an abstract concept but a personal invitation to each individual. By addressing the Samaritans directly, Philip demonstrates the personal nature of God's love and the universal call to salvation. This phrase reminds us that the message of Christ is for everyone, regardless of their background or past.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Philip
One of the seven deacons chosen in Acts 6:5, Philip is known as "Philip the Evangelist." He plays a crucial role in spreading the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, particularly to the Samaritans and later to the Ethiopian eunuch.

2. City of Samaria
This refers to a region historically at odds with the Jews. The Samaritans were a mixed race with their own version of the Pentateuch and worship practices, which often led to tension with the Jewish people.

3. Proclaimed the Christ
Philip's mission was to preach about Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling the Great Commission to spread the Gospel to all nations, including those traditionally seen as outsiders by the Jewish community.

Teaching Points

Breaking Cultural Barriers
Philip's mission to Samaria teaches us the importance of reaching out to those who may be culturally or socially different from us. The Gospel transcends all human divisions.

Obedience to the Great Commission
Philip's actions remind us of our responsibility to share the Gospel with everyone, regardless of their background or previous beliefs.

The Power of the Gospel
The acceptance of the message by the Samaritans highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, which can bring unity and reconciliation.

Role of the Evangelist
Philip's example encourages believers to embrace the role of evangelism in their own lives, using their unique gifts and opportunities to share Christ with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Philip's mission to Samaria challenge our own perceptions of who is "worthy" to hear the Gospel?

2. In what ways can we, like Philip, break down cultural or social barriers to share the message of Christ?

3. How does the account of Philip in Samaria encourage us to be obedient to the Great Commission in our own communities?

4. What can we learn from Philip's approach to evangelism that can be applied to our personal efforts in sharing the Gospel?

5. How does the acceptance of the Gospel by the Samaritans reflect the broader theme of unity in the body of Christ as seen in other parts of the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 1:8
Jesus instructs His disciples to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Philip's mission to Samaria is a direct fulfillment of this command, showing the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jewish boundaries.

John 4:4-42
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well demonstrates His willingness to break cultural barriers and foreshadows the acceptance of the Gospel by the Samaritans.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission calls for making disciples of all nations, which Philip exemplifies by reaching out to the Samaritans.