Philip

Summary

Philip the deacon is NOT Philip the apostle. Philip exercised courage, and was empowered by the Holy Spirit. Philip focused on the essentials when he preached. He knew how to listen and obey. Philip knew that it was important for people to profess faith publicly and be baptized.

Philip wanted to serve the Lord in a greater way. He passed on his faith to his family. The Lord enlarged the scope of Philip’s ministry from deacon to evangelist.

Jesus said that those who have faith would do greater things than he did, and this was evident in Philip’s life. The apostle Paul gave instructions about women speaking in church in particular situations, and these must be placed in the context of the entire Bible, including what we know about the ministry of Philip’s daughters.

Scripture References

  • Philip: Acts 8.4-8, 12-13, Acts 8.26-40, Acts 21.8-9

  • Limits on prophesying: Acts 2.17, 1 Cor 11.5

  • Message of Jesus: Mk 1.14-15, Mt 4.17,23, 9.35, 10.7

  • Apostolic preaching: Ac 3.13-26, 4.9-12

  • Office of evangelist: Eph 4.11, 2 Tim 4.5

  • Greater works than Jesus: Jn 14.12, 1 Cor 14.33-35, 1 Tim 2.11-15

  • Desire for greater ministry: 1 Tim 3.1, 1 Cor 14.1,39

Discussion Questions

  1. What was Philip’s reaction to persecution?

  2. Can persecution be a part of God’s plan?

  3. In what ways was Philip’s ministry like that of the Twelve and the Seventy (Luk 9.1-4, 10.1-12, 17-20)?

  4. What gave Philip credibility?

  5. In what ways did God guide Philip?

  6. What was Philip’s message (verses 5,12,35)?

  7. In what ways can you relate to Philip as a person and as a follower of Jesus?

  8. Have you ever known someone who had one or more of the positive characteristics that Philip demonstrated?

  9. What effect did they have on the people they interacted with, particularly with the fellowship they participated in?

  10. What appeals to you about the story of Philip?