Philip A Zealous Evangelizer

The Scriptures contain many accounts of men and women whose faith is worthy of imitation. Consider Philip, a first-century Christian missionary. He was not an apostle, yet he was used powerfully in spreading the Kingdom message. In fact, Philip became known as "the evangelizer." (Acts 21:8) Why did Philip have that designation? And what can we learn from him?

Philip appears in the Bible record soon after Pentecost 33C.E. At that time the Greek-speaking Jews began murmuring against the Hebrew-speaking Jews, claiming that their windows were being overlooked in the daily food distribution. To handle the matter, the apostles appointed "seven certified men." Philip was among those chosen. - Acts 6;1-6.

These seven men were "certified." James Moffatt's translation says that they were "of good reputation." Yes, at the time of their appointment, they were already known to be spiritual men with practical thinking ability. It is similar with those who serve as Christian overseers today. Such men are not appointed hastily. (1Timothy 5:22) They must have "a fine testimony from people on the outside," and fellow Christians should know that they are reasonable and sound in mind.- 1Timothy 3:2, 3, 7; Philippians 4:5)

Evidently, Philip cared well for his assignment in Jerusalem. Soon, however, a wave of bitter persecution broke out and scattered Christ's followers. Like others, Philip left the city, but his ministry was not over. Before long, he was busy preaching in a new territory-Samaria.-Acts 8:1-5.

Next time: Opening Up New Territories