Luke continues the ministry of Philip and his interaction with the Ethiopian Eunuch. The Holy Spirit continues to guide the spread of the gospel and the advance of the early church. Here the Spirit direct Philip to go south of Jerusalem and there he intersects with the eucuch, in his chariot, reading from the prophecy of Isaiah. He does not understand and Philip asks him if he can help him understand. Immediately, the eunuch acknowledges his belief by asking Philip to baptize him. Despite being a foreigner and an outcast, as a eunuch, he becomes a follower of Jesus and enjoys the forgiveness and acceptance that comes through him. Philip is taken away by the Spirit as they come up out of the water, and the eunuch returns home. The Spirit is at work directing the advance of the church and we too must follow his direction.

Acts is a unique book in our New Testament, because it is the only book of history that we are given. As Luke writes, a second edition to his gospel, he continues with two vital themes – first, that Jesus offers salvation to men and second, that this work – the mission is accomplished – in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had already instructed his disciples about the Holy Spirit and his ongoing ministry to them and all who would come to believe in Jesus. Despite the obvious focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Acts, this book is about Jesus. Throughout Acts, Jesus is described as Lord (the most common title for Jesus in Acts), Jesus (67x), Christ (25x), Servant, Holy One, Just One, a Prophet like Moses, Savior, Son of God, Son of Man, Author of Life, Judge, Man and God. There is absolutely no question that Acts is the continuing account of all that Jesus began to do and to teach as presented in the gospel of Luke. The outline of Acts is very straightforward: Witnesses in Jerusalem (1-7), Witnesses in Judaea & Samaria (8-12), and Witnesses to the ends of the earth (13-28). Luke focuses throughout on this truth: You will receive power from the Holy Spirit and be my witnesses to the ends of the earth. May God strengthen us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.

Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers and Engaging our Community. 

Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!