Philip’s story is told in Acts 6:1-7; 8:5-40; 21:8-10
Philip the Evangelist: A Willing Servant of God
When we think of early Christians who helped spread the message of Jesus, we often remember the apostles like Peter or Paul. But there were also others, not as well known, who played an important part in building the early church. One of them was Philip the Evangelist.
It’s important to know that this Philip is not the same as Philip the disciple, one of Jesus’ twelve. This Philip came a little later and is introduced to us in the book of Acts.
Who Was Philip the Evangelist?
Philip first appears in Acts chapter 6. He was one of seven men chosen to help serve the early church, especially by making sure food was fairly given out to widows. These men were chosen because they were known to be full of wisdom and the Holy Spirit. Philip was clearly a trustworthy and faithful man.
Philip’s Work in Samaria
Later, in Acts chapter 8, Philip went to the city of Samaria to tell people about Jesus. He didn’t just talk—God worked through him in powerful ways. He performed miracles, healed people, and cast out evil spirits. Many listened to Philip, believed the good news, and were baptized.
It’s amazing to see how God used Philip to break barriers. Jews and Samaritans didn’t usually get along, but Philip preached to them boldly, showing that the gospel is for everyone.
The Ethiopian Official
One of the most well-known moments in Philip’s life is when God sent him to a desert road. It may have seemed like an odd place to go, but Philip obeyed. There, he met an Ethiopian official, a man who had been to Jerusalem to worship and was now reading from the book of Isaiah.
Philip asked him if he understood what he was reading. The man said, “How can I, unless someone explains it to me?” So Philip climbed into the chariot with him and explained that the words were about Jesus.
The man believed and asked to be baptized right away. After Philip baptized him, the Bible says the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away to another place.
Philip’s Later Life
Years later, we hear about Philip again in Acts 21. He had settled in Caesarea, where he was known as “Philip the Evangelist.” He had four daughters who also followed God and were known for speaking messages from Him.
What Can We Learn from Philip?
Philip’s story teaches us several important lessons:
- Be ready to serve – Philip started by helping with food, but God used him in bigger ways as he stayed faithful.
- Follow God’s leading – Even when it seemed unusual, like walking a desert road, Philip listened and obeyed.
- Share the good news – Whether in a busy city or a quiet desert, Philip shared the message of Jesus with courage and love.
Final Thoughts
Philip the Evangelist might not be the most famous Bible character, but his life shows the power of simple obedience. He was ready to go, speak, and serve—wherever God led him. His story reminds us that God can use anyone who is willing to say “yes.”
No matter where you are in life, you can be like Philip—listening to God, helping others, and sharing hope.