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In the first 4 chapters of Acts, we see the early church growing by the thousands. This rapid growth prompted the appointment of the first Deacons. These 7 men were called upon to assist in leading the area of waiting on tables. The main requirement for service was to be full of the Holy Spirit. If the fullness of the Holy Spirit was needed for janitorial work, certainly it is needed in all areas of ministry. Phillip the evangelist was one of the the appointed Deacons. In Acts 8, he was called by God to go to the road that leads to Gaza.

As it is today, the ancient city of Gaza has long been a thorn in the side of Israel. Dating back to the period of the Judges, before 1100 BC, Sampson was imprisoned and killed in this city. In about 1000 BC David conquered Gaza and it remained under Solomons control as well. In Acts 8, the road from Jerusalem to Gaza that God instructed Phillip to travel was a lonely desert road. Why would God ask Phillip to leave the fruitful revival in Samaria and travel on a deserted road that leads to a difficult place? When we are obedient, led by the Spirit, we may also encounter surprises, even at first impression, disappointments. Phillip’s divine appointment with a single man that he encountered on the Gaza road may have affected an entire continent with the gospel. The Egyptian Coptic Christians today trace the gospel back to this Ethiopian Eunuch. May we all continue to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, being led (surprised) by the Spirit.

After a clear presentation of the Gospel, beginning in Isaiah 53, the Ethiopian believes in Jesus as Messiah. What prevents me from being baptized? This was the question the Ethiopian asked Phillip after his conversion. This is a good question to ask ourselves today as well. May we always keep God’s simple plan of salvation and baptism clutter free. Have you been born again? Have you been baptized as a believer in Jesus?

Marv Fisher is the pastor at Calvary Chapel Farmville and can be heard weekdays at 1:30 PM on 105.3 Equip FM radio. He can be reached at pastor@ccfarmville.org.