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LYDIA: THE FIRST CONVERT IN EUROPE
LORD’S DAY, NOVEMBER 15
Acts 16:6-15
Acts 16:36-40
“…they went out of the prison,
and entered into
the house of Lydia…”
LYDIA: THE FIRST CONVERT IN EUROPE
This heroine is particularly important in the spread of the Gospel to Europe. Lydia is the first recorded convert in Europe during the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. Originally from Thyatira in Asia Minor, she encountered Paul and his companions by the river near her new home in Philippi, present-day Greece. Paul’s message about Jesus’ life, death and resurrection dramatically transformed her life and marked the beginning of the church in Europe.
Scripture describes Lydia as a woman who worshipped God (Acts 16:14). She embraced the God of Israel as revealed in the Old Testament and was earnestly seeking the truth. As she listened intently to Paul’s preaching, she was highly favoured of God, “whose heart the Lord opened” to believe the Gospel.
Lydia was not merely a hearer of the Word but a doer of it also. She immediately submitted to baptism, fulfilling all righteousness. God’s grace extended to her household as well, and her faith was demonstrated through hospitality. She opened her home to Paul and his companions, providing them a place to stay while they were in Philippi.
Her story reminds us that wherever God’s elect are, He is faithful to send His servants to preach the Word so that they may believe. When the Lord directs His people to evangelise in a certain place, we can trust His wisdom and timing. No call from God is to be despised, for He knows the perfect moment when unbelievers will be drawn to salvation.
Though the church in Philippi began humbly in Lydia’s household, it grew in strength and fruitfulness. Later, Paul commended the Philippians for their generosity, as they supported him financially during his imprisonment in Rome. Their spiritual maturity was evident in their willingness to give of their resources for the advancement of the Gospel.
THOUGHT: Am I actively helping in the missions work of the Lord, using my resources and gifts for His glory?
PRAYER: Father, as Thou hast graciously sent a preacher to bring me Thy Word and salvation, make me a blessing to others. May I support Thy servants and the work of the Gospel with joy and faithfulness.