So Philip ran up to it and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah. He asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ He replied, ‘How can I, unless someone guides me?’ And he invited Philip to get in and sit beside him.” vss. 30-31
John 12:16-18
There has been a Jewish presence in Ethiopia for thousands of years, and some of them regularly traveled to Jerusalem to worship at the temple. Luke here recounts how an official of Queen Candace had made such a trip by chariot, and on his return to Ethiopia had been joined by the apostle, Philip. When Philip asks if he understands the scripture that he had been reading out loud (as was the custom), the Ethiopian asks for guidance. Philip is glad to oblige and uses the passage to introduce Jesus into the conversation. This was a common tactic among early Christians. They had no scripture of their own, but it was easy for them to find passages in the prophets, particularly Isaiah, that they believed pointed to the life and mission of Jesus. Philip presented a compelling argument and the Ethiopian fell in love with the good news. Sometimes that’s how it works with chance encounters. It could be on an airline flight or in a bar. Guided by the Spirit we begin a conversation that soon turns to spiritual matters, and we are given an opportunity to testify to the good news. As a result of hearing the message of grace, it’s even possible for lives to change. Philip’s witness brought Christianity to Ethiopia!
Thought for the Day: What opportunities have I had for random testimony?
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