S. Acts 8:30-35 (NIV)
30 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading:
“He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 33 In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants?
For his life was taken from the earth.” (Isaiah 53:7) 34 The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
O. Philip knew he had been sent of the Lord. He heard the man reading this passage from the prophet of Isaiah. Philip initiated the conversation. This led then to Philip telling the man the good news of Jesus. The Ethiopian was saved and then baptized.
God often presents opportunities for us in which we should take the initiative in the conversation. When we do, God can and often does amazing things.
A. I recall times when I knew there was an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus and I failed to do so. I also recall times when I knew there was an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus and I did. One of those times was my first back in the 1980’s. My wife and I had transitioned from youth ministry to children’s ministry, overseeing an Awana type kids’ club called Coached By Christ. I recall sharing the gospel with a middle school student named Kyle. I had asked her if she knew for sure she was going to heaven and she was not sure. I presented the gospel to Kyle (I stepped out) and Kyle took the initiative to pray and receive Jesus as her Savior (she stepped up). That was an amazing night.
Since that time I continue to look for opportunities to present the Gospel of Jesus. I will continue to step out so others can step up (to heaven).
P. Thank you Father for Philip’s example. Holy Spirit continue to guide me into relationships and conversations so that people may hear your word and receive Christ Jesus. Give me boldness to step out so others can express faith and step up! In Jesus’ name!
