Acts 8:25

And after Peter and John had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many of the Samaritan villages.

Study Bible

And after they had testified
The phrase "after they had testified" indicates a completion of a significant task. The Greek word for "testified" is "διαμαρτύρομαι" (diamarturomai), which means to solemnly affirm or bear witness. This suggests that the apostles, likely Peter and John, had completed a mission of bearing witness to the truth of Jesus Christ. In a historical context, this act of testifying was crucial in the early church as it established the credibility and authority of the apostles' message. Their testimony was not just verbal but was confirmed by the power of the Holy Spirit, which had been visibly manifested in the Samaritan believers.

and spoken the word of the Lord
The phrase "spoken the word of the Lord" emphasizes the centrality of the message they delivered. The "word of the Lord" refers to the teachings and gospel of Jesus Christ. The Greek term "λόγος" (logos) is used here, which can mean word, message, or reason. This highlights the divine wisdom and truth inherent in the gospel. Historically, the proclamation of the word was the primary method of spreading Christianity, and it was through this spoken word that faith was ignited in the hearts of listeners.

they returned to Jerusalem
The phrase "they returned to Jerusalem" indicates a journey back to the center of early Christianity. Jerusalem was not only the geographical heart of the Jewish faith but also the birthplace of the Christian church. The apostles' return signifies a report back to the church community and possibly a sharing of the success of their mission in Samaria. This return also underscores the unity and accountability within the early church leadership.

preaching the gospel
The phrase "preaching the gospel" is central to the mission of the apostles. The Greek word for "preaching" is "εὐαγγελίζω" (euangelizō), which means to bring good news. The "gospel" or "εὐαγγέλιον" (euangelion) is the good news of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection for the salvation of mankind. This act of preaching was not just a duty but a passionate proclamation of hope and redemption. Historically, this was a radical message that challenged existing religious and social norms.

in many of the Samaritan villages
The phrase "in many of the Samaritan villages" highlights the geographical and cultural expansion of the gospel. Samaritans were historically despised by Jews, and the animosity between the two groups was profound. However, the inclusion of Samaritans in the early Christian mission demonstrates the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers through the gospel. This outreach to Samaritans 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." It signifies the universal nature of the Christian message, transcending traditional boundaries and offering salvation to all.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter and John
Two of Jesus' apostles who were instrumental in the early church. They were sent to Samaria to confirm the work that Philip had begun and to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit.

2. Samaritan Villages
The region of Samaria was historically significant due to its mixed population of Jews and Gentiles. The Samaritans were often looked down upon by the Jews, making the spread of the gospel to this area a significant event in the early church.

3. Testifying and Preaching
Peter and John not only confirmed the work of the Holy Spirit among the Samaritans but also actively preached the gospel, showing the importance of both witnessing and teaching in the spread of Christianity.

4. Return to Jerusalem
This marks the continuation of the apostles' mission, emphasizing the centrality of Jerusalem as the starting point for the spread of the gospel, as instructed by Jesus.

5. The Word of the Lord
Refers to the message of Jesus Christ, His death, resurrection, and the salvation available through Him. This was the core message that the apostles were spreading.

Teaching Points

The Universality of the Gospel
The gospel is for all people, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. The inclusion of Samaritans demonstrates God's love and salvation for all humanity.

The Role of Testimony and Preaching
Both personal testimony and the preaching of the Word are vital in spreading the gospel. Believers are called to share their experiences and the truth of Scripture.

The Importance of Follow-Up and Discipleship
Peter and John's return to Jerusalem after preaching in Samaria highlights the need for follow-up and continued discipleship in the Christian faith.

The Power of the Holy Spirit
The apostles' ministry in Samaria was empowered by the Holy Spirit, reminding believers of the necessity of relying on the Spirit for effective ministry.

Breaking Down Barriers
The gospel challenges social and cultural barriers, calling believers to reach out to those who may be different from themselves.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of Samaritans in the early church challenge our own biases and prejudices today?

2. In what ways can we incorporate both personal testimony and the preaching of the Word in our evangelistic efforts?

3. How does the apostles' return to Jerusalem after their mission in Samaria inform our understanding of the importance of community and accountability in the church?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in our personal ministry, and how can we be more attuned to His guidance?

5. How can we actively work to break down cultural and social barriers in our own communities to spread the gospel more effectively?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 1:8
Jesus' command to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth is being fulfilled as Peter and John preach in Samaria.

John 4:4-42
Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well foreshadows the acceptance of the gospel by the Samaritans and highlights the breaking down of ethnic barriers.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission to make disciples of all nations is being enacted as the apostles preach beyond Jewish territories.