Calendar

THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH: SALVATION IS OF THE LORD
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
Acts 8:26-39

Isaiah 53:7-8

 

“…for the transgression of my people

was he stricken,”

 

THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH: SALVATION IS OF THE LORD
 
Through Philip, one important person to remember is the Ethiopian eunuch, a high-ranking official in the court of Queen Candace. He is remembered in Scripture as a man seeking God. He had travelled to Jerusalem to worship, likely as a Jewish proselyte, and on his return journey, he experienced a life-changing encounter with Philip the Evangelist.
 
The account in Acts 8 beautifully illustrates God’s sovereign role in evangelism. Philip, one of the first deacons of the church, had just preached the Gospel in Samaria with great success (Acts 8:4-8). Then, an angel directed him to go south on the desert road from Jerusalem to Gaza (Acts 8:26). Without hesitation, Philip obeyed.
 
Meanwhile, the eunuch was seated in his chariot, reading from Isaiah 53:7‑8. The Spirit prompted Philip to approach, and he asked the eunuch if he understood what he was reading. The eunuch replied, “How can I, except some man should guide me?” (Acts 8:31). Inviting Philip to join him, he asked whether the prophet Isaiah spoke of himself or of another. Philip seized the opportunity to proclaim Jesus Christ, the suffering Servant who gave His life to save sinners. The eunuch believed, and upon seeing water, he asked to be baptised. Philip responded, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.” The eunuch confessed, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (Acts 8:37). Immediately, he was baptised, and his life was transformed from that moment.
 
This account reminds us that evangelism is God’s work from beginning to end. He directs His servants, prepares hearts, and opens ears to hear the Gospel. Salvation is not man-centred, but God-centred. Our task is to remain sensitive to the Spirit’s leading, and to faithfully proclaim Christ, while trusting God to accomplish His saving purposes.
 
THOUGHT: Am I truly God-centred in my evangelistic efforts, relying on His Spirit rather than human methods?
PRAYER: Father, Thou knowest who are Thine, and how to bring the elect unto salvation. Make me sensitive to Thy Spirit’s leading, that I may faithfully proclaim Christ and glorify Thee in all my witness.

Search