Articles
Person Of The Week: Philip
Philip is another of the seven special servants who helped resolve the issue concerning the neglected widows. This means that he was a man of outstanding character who had the confidence of his peers. But the martyrdom of his colleague Stephen became a catalyst that defined his work in the kingdom.
When the disciples scattered to avoid the persecution of Saul, Philip accepted the challenge to preach in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8). This gives us another bit of insight into Philip: he was unaffected by prejudice and was willing to associate with the despised Samaritans. We also note that, like Stephen, Philip could work miracles and did so to the advantage of the gospel.
Philip was also selected to teach an Ethiopian Jew the gospel (Acts 8:26ff), again showing his open mind and zeal toward anyone who might be saved. At the end of this episode, Philip preached in former Philistine cities until settling in Caesarea.
Years later, Philip hosts Paul and his companions in Caesarea as they journey to Jerusalem (Acts 21:8). It is possible, though not certain, that he has lived there the whole time. God had long-term plans for Philip but not so for Stephen. The success of the early church rested on the backs of such ordinary men who demonstrated an extraordinary faith. And God will use such men and women today. All it takes is the same spirit of service.
