An Example of God’s Word at Work

MORNING

Read Acts 8:30-35

Devotion

The man riding in the chariot was a high-ranking, Ethiopian official who had been worshipping in Jerusalem. He was most likely a God-fearer, a term used to describe followers of Judaism who had not fully converted to become Jews. You see the monotheism and ethics of Judaism were very appealing to godly seekers in a degraded, pagan culture, so some people would become semi-Jews. They practiced the Jewish faith, but identifying as a Jew through circumcision was often a bridge too far. This God-fearing guy was returning to Ethiopia after worshipping in Jerusalem.

In this story, we find a great example of the purpose and power of Scripture.

1. The Ethiopian official is reading Scripture and God awakens a hunger. He is stuck in Isaiah 53 and its prophesies about Jesus. He wants to know who Isaiah is referring to.

2. Philip (placed by God alongside the chariot) knows Scripture well and can explain it correctly. He hops into the chariot and shares the good news about Jesus from the scroll of Isaiah (8:35).

3. God’s Spirit enlivens Scripture as Philip shares the gospel, and the heart of the Ethiopian guy is radically changed by the truth of Scripture.

A method of evangelism that is proving effective these days is asking someone who is interested in learning about Christianity to study the Bible with you. This story is a very early example of two people exploring the Scriptures together as God works in power through His Word. Not only is reading the Bible helpful in teaching us and changing us, but it also powerful in evangelism. Maybe there is a not yet Christian you could invite to read the Bible with you? Remember Hebrews 4:12: “The Word of God is alive and active.”

In this Plan, we’ve seen how knowing and living Scripture is vital for everyday disciples of Jesus. In the next Plan in the series (“Serving in Community”), we will explore the purpose and value of Christian community for our growth and ministry as disciples.

Prayer

I recognize the power of Your Spirit-inspired Word in transforming my life, but I don’t always believe that this will happen for others, especially those who don’t know You yet. I pray for those You have put around me who are not yet Christians. Please work in their hearts and open their eyes. Lord, is there any helpful Scripture that I could share with them at the moment?

Today’s Bible Focus

“Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.”

LUNCHTIME (or when you can make a moment during the day)

1. Meditate for a short time on today’s Bible Focus. Let it seep into your heart.

2. Look and see what is happening around you from God’s perspective and listen to see whether God is whispering anything to you.

3. Pray for any not-yet Christians God has placed on your heart.

EVENING

1. Remember: Repeat today’s Bible Focus.

2. Reflect: Reflect on the day and thank God for what He has said and done.

3. Repent: Check where you have neglected or disobeyed God during the day and ask for forgiveness and freedom.

4. Release: Name any concerns or fears on your mind and release them to Jesus.