Why Philip is an inspiration For our recent Mission Sunday, I suggested you might read the accounts of Philip’s life from Acts: Acts 6:1-7, 8:1-40, 21:7-9. While Peter and Paul are the central figures in Acts, I find Philip an inspiration and a challenge.  Philip isn't a big name person, in fact when he is introduced, he is one of the ones chosen to help distribute food - a simple helper.  So he is anyone - just like you or me.  But he was also known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom - something I aspire to. When persecution broke out Philip was scattered to Samaria where he proclaimed Jesus and miracles and healings happened - and he wasn't even one of 'the apostles'.  Later he was practiced enough in hearing God's voice that he went to the Jerusalem Gaza road and then approach a man on a chariot who he subsequently baptised.  So Philip was a general witness but was also open to God's specific leading in evangelism - I want to be like that. The final reference to Philip is just a passing one but no less challenging or inspiring.  In Acts 21 Paul is on his way to Jerusalem and he stays at the house of Philip in Caesarea.  It mentions that Philip has four unmarried daughters who prophesy.  So not only was Philip full of the Spirit, an able servant and evangelist who could he hear God's voice, he had raised his children so they routinely heard God's voice as well. I don't know about you but I want to have Philip's rich life with the Spirit and also to be able to pass it on to others.

David Wanstall, 03/09/2010