Act 8 - The Spreading of Gospel

Acts 8:35 (KJV): “Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.”

Acts 8 marks a pivotal shift in the early Christian movement. Jesus's mandate in Acts 1:8, to spread the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth, begins to unfold. This chapter details persecution, divine intervention, and the breaking of cultural barriers, all contributing to the gospel's expansion.

The narrative opens with intense persecution following Stephen's stoning (Acts 7). Saul, a zealous Pharisee, actively participated in this persecution, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria, excluding the apostles. Stephen's martyrdom ignited a wave of hostility.

Roman Judea, under Roman rule, allowed Jewish authorities like the Sanhedrin to suppress perceived threats to their religious order. Saul's role aligns with the historical reality of religious zealots acting against perceived heretics. Evidence of increased hostility toward certain Jewish sects is supported by the Dead Sea Scrolls, displaying the tense religious environment.

Archaeological data, such as burial sites in the Kidron Valley, reflect the potential for believers to be executed or forced to flee. What appeared to be a setback--persecution--became the catalyst for the gospel's dissemination beyond Jerusalem.

Philip traveled to Samaria, preaching Christ and performing miracles, resulting in widespread conversions. Samaritans were descendants of Israelites who intermarried with Assyrians, creating a cultural and religious divide with Jews. They possessed their own version of the Pentateuch and worshiped on Mount Gerizim, further separating them from Jewish traditions. John 4:9 illustrates the deep-seated animosity between Jews and Samaritans.

Excavations at Sebaste (ancient Samaria) reveal Herodian-era structures, indicating Samaria's significance. The ruins of the Samaritan temple on Mount Gerizim confirm their distinct religious practices. Philip's ministry broke down long-standing ethnic and religious barriers. The laying on of hands by the apostles (Acts 8:17) signified the Samaritans' full inclusion in the Christian community.

Simon, a sorcerer, was amazed by Philip's miracles and attempted to purchase the power to impart the Holy Spirit. Magic and sorcery were prevalent in the Greco-Roman world, often associated with Gnostic beliefs. Simon's attempt to buy spiritual power led to the term "simony," referring to the purchase of church offices.

Ancient Roman magical amulets, inscriptions, and curse tablets, that have been found, prove the use of magic in that time period. Justin Martyr, a 2nd-century writer, wrote of Simon being the founder of a gnostic sect. God's power is not for sale. True faith is rooted in submission, not control.

Philip was divinely guided to meet an Ethiopian eunuch, a high-ranking official, returning from Jerusalem. The Kingdom of Meroë (Ethiopia) was a wealthy African kingdom with established trade routes to Egypt and Rome. "Candace" (Kandake) was a title for Ethiopian queen mothers who held significant power.

Eunuchs often held positions of high authority in royal courts. Sudanese inscriptions confirm the rule of Kandake queens in Meroë. A 1st-century AD Roman road linked Egypt to Nubia, facilitating the eunuch’s travel. This encounter marked the gospel's entry into Africa. The eunuch's reading of Isaiah 53 suggests he was a Jewish proselyte.

Philip was instructed to go to the road leading to Gaza, described as "desert" (Acts 8:26). Gaza was an ancient Philistine city and a major Roman trade hub, strategically located on trade routes. The road to Gaza was a significant, though less traveled, desert route. Excavations in modern Gaza have revealed Roman roads, structures, and inscriptions, confirming its importance.

Greek and Roman historians like Strabo and Josephus documented Gaza's importance. God orchestrated Philip's encounter in a remote location, demonstrating divine sovereignty. The “desert road” was likely a less traveled route, and the eunuch, a traveler, would have been on the road.

God used persecution to advance the gospel. Philip was directed by the Spirit. The message transcended cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Acts 8 demonstrates that the gospel breaks down barriers, persecution can lead to growth, and the Holy Spirit actively guides believers. This chapter serves as a testament to the transformative power of the gospel and its ability to reach all nations.