◄ Acts 8 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Saul Persecutes the Church Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip's unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church. Verses 1-3: The Persecution of the Church After Stephen's execution, severe persecution begins against the church in Jerusalem, leading to a scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria. Saul is noted as one who approves of Stephen's death and contributes greatly to the persecution. Verses 4-25: Philip's Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer Those scattered preach the word wherever they go. Particularly, Philip goes to Samaria, where he preaches Christ and performs miracles, bringing joy to the city. Many Samaritans believe and are baptized, including Simon, a man formerly known for sorcery. Seeing the apostles Peter and John bestow the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, Simon offers money to possess this power, leading to Peter's stern rebuke. Verses 26-40: The Ethiopian Eunuch's Conversion An angel of the Lord directs Philip to the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, where he encounters an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official and a man of authority. Philip explains Isaiah's prophecy that the eunuch was reading, leading to the eunuch's baptism and conversion. Subsequently, the Spirit takes Philip away, and he continues to preach the Gospel in other towns. Acts 8 presents the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, driven largely by persecution. It introduces us to Philip's successful ministry in Samaria, the account of Simon the sorcerer, and the significant conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch. The chapter offers a multifaceted view of the early church's experience: persecution, miracles, conversions, and challenges. Teaching Points Persecution and Dispersion Acts 8:1-4 describes how the persecution led by Saul caused the believers to scatter, yet they continued to preach the Word wherever they went. This demonstrates how God can use adversity to advance His kingdom. Philip in Samaria In Acts 8:5-8, Philip's ministry in Samaria shows the breaking of cultural barriers as he preached Christ, resulting in great joy in the city. This highlights the inclusivity of the Gospel message. Simon the Sorcerer Acts 8:9-24 introduces Simon, who believed and was baptized but later revealed a misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit's power. This serves as a warning against seeking spiritual gifts for personal gain. The Ethiopian Eunuch Acts 8:26-40 recounts Philip's divine appointment with the Ethiopian eunuch, emphasizing the importance of obedience to the Holy Spirit's leading and the power of Scripture in revealing Christ. Practical Applications Embrace Challenges Recognize that God can use difficult circumstances in your life to spread His message and grow your faith. Break Down Barriers Be willing to reach out to those who are different from you, understanding that the Gospel is for all people. Seek Pure Motives Examine your heart to ensure that your desire for spiritual gifts and experiences is rooted in a genuine love for God and others. Be Ready to Share Like Philip, be prepared to share the Gospel at any moment, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide your words and actions. People 1. Saul Saul is introduced in Acts 8:1 as a key figure consenting to the death of Stephen. He is described as a persecutor of the church, actively seeking to destroy it by entering houses and dragging off men and women to prison (Acts 8:3). The Greek term used for "destroy" (λυμαίνομαι, lymainomai) implies a violent and aggressive action. 2. Philip Philip, one of the seven deacons chosen earlier in Acts 6, is a central figure in Acts 8. He goes to Samaria to preach the gospel, performing signs and miracles, which lead to great joy in the city (Acts 8:5-8). His role as an evangelist is highlighted by his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch later in the chapter (Acts 8:26-40). 3. Simon the Sorcerer Simon, also known as Simon Magus, is a magician in Samaria who previously amazed the people with his sorcery (Acts 8:9-11). After hearing Philip's preaching, he believes and is baptized, but later attempts to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, leading to a rebuke from Peter (Acts 8:18-24). 4. Peter The apostle Peter, along with John, is sent to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17). Peter's interaction with Simon the Sorcerer is significant, as he confronts Simon's misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit's power (Acts 8:20-23). 5. John John, the apostle, accompanies Peter to Samaria. Together, they lay hands on the believers, who then receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17). John's presence underscores the apostolic authority and unity in the early church. 6. The Ethiopian Eunuch The Ethiopian eunuch is a high-ranking official in charge of the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians (Acts 8:27). He is reading from the book of Isaiah when Philip is led by the Spirit to explain the Scriptures to him, resulting in his conversion and baptism (Acts 8:30-38). 7. Candace, Queen of the Ethiopians Although not directly involved in the events, Candace is mentioned as the queen whom the Ethiopian eunuch serves (Acts 8:27). The term "Candace" is a title used for queens of Ethiopia, similar to "Pharaoh" in Egypt. Places 1. Jerusalem Acts 8:1: "And Saul was there, giving approval to Stephen’s death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Description: Jerusalem is the central city for Jewish worship and the early Christian church. It is where the apostles remained during the persecution. 2. Judea Acts 8:1: "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Description: Judea is the region surrounding Jerusalem. The Greek term "Ἰουδαία" (Ioudaia) refers to the southern part of ancient Israel. 3. Samaria Acts 8:1: "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Acts 8:5: "Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them." Description: Samaria is the region north of Judea. The Greek "Σαμάρεια" (Samareia) refers to both the region and its central city. Philip's ministry here marks a significant expansion of the early church beyond Jewish boundaries. 4. Gaza Acts 8:26: "Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Get up and go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.'" Description: Gaza is a Philistine city located southwest of Jerusalem. The Greek "Γάζα" (Gaza) indicates a significant location on the trade route to Egypt. 5. Azotus Acts 8:40: "But Philip appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea." Description: Azotus, known in Greek as "Ἄζωτος" (Azotos), is the ancient Philistine city of Ashdod, located on the Mediterranean coast. 6. Caesarea Acts 8:40: "But Philip appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea." Description: Caesarea, or "Καισάρεια" (Kaisareia) in Greek, is a major Roman port city on the Mediterranean coast, serving as a significant center for early Christian activity. Events 1. Persecution of the Church in Jerusalem The chapter begins with the severe persecution of the early Christian church in Jerusalem, following the martyrdom of Stephen. "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria" (Acts 8:1). The Greek word for "persecution" (διωγμός, diogmos) indicates a systematic effort to oppress and harass the believers. 2. Philip in Samaria Philip, one of the seven deacons, goes to Samaria to preach the gospel. "Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them" (Acts 8:5). The Greek term for "proclaimed" (κηρύσσω, kerysso) suggests a public declaration or heralding of the message of Christ. 3. Signs and Miracles Philip performs signs and miracles, leading to great joy in the city. "With one accord, the crowds paid attention to what Philip said, as they heard and saw the signs he performed" (Acts 8:6). The Greek word for "signs" (σημεῖα, semeia) refers to miraculous events that signify divine authority. 4. Simon the Sorcerer Simon, a sorcerer in Samaria, believes and is baptized after witnessing the miracles performed by Philip. "Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was amazed by the great signs and miracles he observed" (Acts 8:13). The Greek word for "sorcerer" (μάγος, magos) indicates someone who practices magic or sorcery. 5. Peter and John Visit Samaria The apostles Peter and John are sent to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit. "When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them" (Acts 8:14). The Greek term for "receive" (λαμβάνω, lambano) implies an active acceptance or taking hold of something. 6. The Holy Spirit Given Peter and John lay hands on the believers, and they receive the Holy Spirit. "Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit" (Acts 8:17). The act of laying on hands (ἐπιτίθημι, epitithemi) is a symbolic gesture of impartation and blessing. 7. Simon's Attempt to Buy the Holy Spirit Simon offers money to Peter and John to obtain the power to bestow the Holy Spirit. "Give me this power as well," he said, "so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit" (Acts 8:19). The Greek word for "power" (ἐξουσία, exousia) refers to authority or capability. 8. Peter Rebukes Simon Peter rebukes Simon for his attempt to buy the gift of God with money. "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!" (Acts 8:20). The Greek term for "gift" (δωρεά, dorea) emphasizes the free and unmerited nature of God's blessings. 9. Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch An angel of the Lord directs Philip to meet an Ethiopian eunuch on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. "Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza'" (Acts 8:26). The Greek word for "angel" (ἄγγελος, angelos) means messenger, often referring to a divine messenger. 10. The Eunuch's Conversion Philip explains the Scriptures to the eunuch, leading to his conversion and baptism. "Then Philip began with this very Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus" (Acts 8:35). The Greek term for "good news" (εὐαγγελίζω, euangelizo) is the root of the word "evangelize," meaning to proclaim the gospel. 11. Philip's Departure After baptizing the eunuch, Philip is taken away by the Spirit of the Lord. "When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing" (Acts 8:39). The Greek word for "carried away" (ἁρπάζω, harpazo) suggests a sudden and forceful removal. 12. Philip Preaches in Other Towns Philip continues to preach the gospel in various towns until he reaches Caesarea. "Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea" (Acts 8:40). The Greek term for "preaching" (εὐαγγελίζω, euangelizo) again emphasizes the proclamation of the gospel message. Connections to Additional Scriptures Persecution and Growth Matthew 5:10-12; 2 Timothy 3:12 Breaking Cultural Barriers John 4:4-26; Galatians 3:28 True Motives in Ministry 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; James 4:3 Guidance of the Holy Spirit John 16:13; Romans 8:14 Prayer Points Pray for strength and courage for believers facing persecution around the world. Ask God to help you see opportunities to share the Gospel in your daily life. Pray for a heart that seeks God’s glory above personal gain. Request guidance from the Holy Spirit to lead you to those who are seeking truth. As we reflect on Acts 8, may we be inspired to trust in God's sovereignty, embrace His mission, and be faithful witnesses of His love and truth. Bible Study Questions 1. How did the persecution of the church contribute to the spread of the Gospel? 2. What can we learn from Philip's ministry and his obedience to God's direction? 3. How does Simon the sorcerer's story illustrate the difference between genuine and false belief? 4. What lessons can we draw from the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch? 5. How does Saul's role in persecuting the church contrast with his later mission? 6. Why was it significant that the Gospel was being preached and accepted in Samaria? 7. What does Peter's confrontation with Simon the sorcerer reveal about the early church's stance on spiritual integrity? 8. How did the Holy Spirit guide and empower the believers in this chapter? 9. What significance does the Ethiopian eunuch's authority in his homeland hold for the spread of the Gospel? 10. How does this chapter inspire us to be open to God's leading in sharing the Gospel? 11. In the face of adversity and displacement, how would you share the Gospel like the persecuted believers? 12. How would you respond if you encounter a situation like Simon's in today's church? 13. How does the Ethiopian eunuch's eagerness to understand the Scripture challenge your Bible study habits? 14. Can you identify areas in your life where you might be behaving like Simon the sorcerer, seeking to gain from God rather than to know God? 15. How do you see the work of the Holy Spirit in your life and in the lives of others around you? 16. How can you cultivate the same obedience and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit as seen in Philip's life? 17. How would you guide someone who, like the Ethiopian eunuch, is seeking to understand the Scriptures? 18. How does the chapter challenge your understanding and response to persecution for the sake of the Gospel? 19. How can you apply the lesson of Simon the sorcerer to guard against the commercialization of the Gospel in today's world? 20. In what ways does Acts 8 inspire you to spread the Gospel in your own sphere of influence? Topics 1. Persecution and Scattering of the Church (Acts 8:1-3) Following the martyrdom of Stephen, a great persecution arises against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria. Saul (later Paul) is noted for his role in ravaging the church, entering homes, and imprisoning both men and women. The Greek word for "ravaging" (λυμαίνομαι, lymainomai) conveys the idea of brutal and destructive actions. 2. Philip in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8) Philip, one of the seven deacons, preaches the gospel in Samaria, performing signs and miracles. The people of Samaria receive his message with great joy. The Greek term for "preaching" (εὐαγγελίζω, euangelizō) emphasizes the proclamation of the good news. 3. Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:9-13) Simon, a sorcerer in Samaria, amazes the people with his magic and claims to be someone great. However, he believes and is baptized after witnessing the signs performed by Philip. The Greek word for "sorcery" (μαγεία, mageia) indicates the practice of magic arts. 4. Peter and John in Samaria (Acts 8:14-17) The apostles in Jerusalem send Peter and John to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit, as they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. The laying on of hands is used as a means for the Holy Spirit to be given. 5. The Sin of Simon (Acts 8:18-24) Simon offers money to Peter and John, seeking the power to bestow the Holy Spirit. Peter rebukes him, urging repentance for his wickedness. The Greek term for "gift" (δωρεά, dōrea) highlights the free and unmerited nature of the Holy Spirit's impartation. 6. Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40) An angel of the Lord directs Philip to meet an Ethiopian eunuch on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. The eunuch is reading Isaiah and seeks understanding. Philip explains the scripture, leading to the eunuch's belief and baptism. The Greek word for "baptize" (βαπτίζω, baptizō) signifies immersion, reflecting the practice of early Christian baptism. Themes 1. Persecution and Scattering of the Church Acts 8:1-4 describes the severe persecution that arose against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria. This persecution, led by Saul, paradoxically resulted in the spread of the Gospel. The Greek word for "scattered" (διασπείρω, diaspeirō) implies a purposeful sowing, suggesting that God used persecution to plant the seeds of the Gospel in new regions. 2. Philip's Evangelistic Mission Acts 8:5-8 highlights Philip's mission in Samaria, where he preached Christ and performed miracles. The Greek term for "preached" (κηρύσσω, kēryssō) indicates a public proclamation, emphasizing the boldness and authority with which Philip shared the Gospel. The resulting joy in the city underscores the transformative power of the Gospel message. 3. The Power of the Holy Spirit In Acts 8:14-17, Peter and John are sent to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit. The passage emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit's empowerment for effective Christian living and ministry. The Greek word for "receive" (λαμβάνω, lambanō) suggests an active reception, highlighting the believers' openness to the Spirit's work. 4. Confrontation with False Belief Acts 8:18-24 recounts Simon the Sorcerer's attempt to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, revealing a misunderstanding of God's gifts. Peter's rebuke underscores the theme of purity in ministry and the danger of mixing true faith with selfish ambition. The Greek term for "gift" (δωρεά, dōrea) emphasizes the grace and generosity of God, contrasting with Simon's transactional mindset. 5. The Inclusivity of the Gospel Acts 8:26-40 narrates Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch, illustrating the Gospel's reach beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries. The eunuch's conversion and baptism signify the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy regarding the inclusion of foreigners (Isaiah 56:3-5). The Greek word for "baptized" (βαπτίζω, baptizō) signifies immersion, symbolizing the eunuch's full identification with Christ. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions