Acts 8 Summary Saul Persecutes the ChurchVerses 1–3 – Persecution and Scattering Verses 4–8 – Philip Preaches in Samaria Verses 9–13 – Simon the Magician Believes Verses 14–17 – Peter and John Confirm the Work Verses 18–24 – Simon’s Attempt to Buy the Gift Verse 25 – Ongoing Evangelism in Samaria Verses 26–29 – Philip Sent to the Desert Road Verses 30–35 – Explaining Isaiah’s Scroll Verses 36–40 – Baptism of the Ethiopian and Philip’s Relocation Acts 8 presents the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, driven largely by persecution. It introduces us to Philip's successful ministry in Samaria, the account of Simon the sorcerer, and the significant conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch. The chapter offers a multifaceted view of the early church's experience: persecution, miracles, conversions, and challenges. Historical Setting and Key People • Time: Roughly A.D. 31–33, soon after Jesus’ resurrection. • Saul: A zealous Pharisee (Acts 7:58; 22:3) whose persecution actually accelerates the spread of the gospel—fulfilling Jesus’ Acts 1:8 roadmap. • Philip: First seen in Acts 6:5; now acting as the first named “evangelist” (cf. 21:8). • Peter and John: Apostolic eyewitnesses who confirm new works. • Simon: Represents the clash between worldly power and the Holy Spirit. • The Ethiopian: A high-ranking court official under Queen (Kandake) of Nubia, proof that the gospel is crossing continents. Persecution and God’s Purpose • Genesis 50:20 echoes here: evil intentions become God’s vehicle for good. • Believers obey Acts 1:8 by force of circumstances—not preference. • Even amid trial, ordinary Christians preach (v. 4); ministry is not reserved for apostles. Philip in Samaria—Breaking Old Barriers • Jews and Samaritans had centuries of distrust (2 Kings 17; John 4:9). • Jesus had already sown seed in Samaria (John 4:39–42). Philip now reaps. • “Great joy” (v. 8) fulfills Luke 2:10; the gospel always produces true gladness. Signs and Wonders—Why Miracles Matter • Miracles validate new ground (Hebrews 2:3–4). • Deliverance from evil spirits confirms Jesus’ triumph announced in Luke 4:18. Simon the Sorcerer—True vs. False Faith • External belief (v. 13) can fall short of heart repentance (v. 21). • Money cannot purchase spiritual power (Isaiah 55:1; 1 Peter 1:18–19). • Peter’s call to repentance (v. 22) shows grace is still offered to the wayward. Receiving the Holy Spirit—Why the Delay? • God withholds the Spirit until apostles arrive to maintain unity; no Samaritan church separate from Jerusalem’s oversight. • Laying on of hands is personal and relational, underlining fellowship between groups once hostile. The Ethiopian Official—The Gospel Goes Global • He likely worshiped at Jerusalem’s Feast (Deuteronomy 16:16). • Reading Isaiah 53:7–8 aloud matches ancient practice. God arranges Philip to interpret. • Baptism in the desert shows any natural setting can become holy ground. • Early church writers say he spread the faith in Africa, fulfilling Psalm 68:31: “Cush will stretch out her hands to God.” Philip’s Transport to Azotus—God Guides His Messengers • Azotus = ancient Ashdod, 20–30 miles north of Gaza. • The Spirit relocates Philip, confirming divine control over mission routes. • Philip finally settles in Caesarea, a harbor city poised for Gentile outreach (Acts 21:8; 10:1). Archaeological and Geographical Notes • Samaria: Modern Sebastia. Excavations show a Roman city built on older biblical foundations—Philip’s preaching occurred amid Roman-Samaritan mix. • Desert road to Gaza: Two routes existed; Luke specifies the “desert” one, the less traveled coastal plain path. • Candace: Not a name but a title; Nubian queens ruled from Meroë (modern Sudan). Royal treasurers like this eunuch managed vast gold reserves, explaining his ability to purchase an expensive scroll. Practical Lessons for Believers Today 1. Opposition can propel mission; comfort rarely does. 2. God reaches across every barrier—ethnic, social, or geographic. 3. Authentic faith seeks God’s gift freely; counterfeit faith tries to bargain. 4. Scripture understood leads to immediate obedience—note the eunuch’s prompt baptism. 5. The Spirit both directs and empowers; availability matters more than ability.
Saul Persecutes the Church 1And Saul was there, giving approval to Stephen’s death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2God-fearing men buried Stephen and mourned deeply over him. 3But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Philip in Samaria 4Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them. 6The crowds all paid close attention to Philip’s message and to the signs they saw him perform. 7With loud shrieks, unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, and many of the paralyzed and lame were healed. 8So there was great joy in that city. Simon the Sorcerer 9Prior to that time, a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and astounded the people of Samaria. He claimed to be someone great, 10and all the people, from the least to the greatest, heeded his words and said, “This man is the divine power called the Great Power.” 11They paid close attention to him because he had astounded them for a long time with his sorcery. 12But when they believed Philip as he preached the gospel of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was astounded by the great signs and miracles he observed. 14When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 15On their arrival, they prayed for them to receive the Holy Spirit. 16For the Holy Spirit had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. 17Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18When Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money. 19“Give me this power as well,” he said, “so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20But Peter replied, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21You have no part or share in our ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22Repent, therefore, of your wickedness, and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for the intent of your heart. 23For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and captive to iniquity.” 24Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me, so that nothing you have said may happen to me.” 25And after Peter and John had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many of the Samaritan villages. Philip and the Ethiopian 26Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Get up and go south to the desert road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” 27So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official in charge of the entire treasury of Candace,a queen of the Ethiopians. He had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28and on his return was sitting in his chariot reading Isaiah the prophet. 29The Spirit said to Philip, “Go over to that chariot and stay by it.” 30So Philip ran up and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. 31“How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, 33In His humiliation He was deprived of justice. Who can recount His descendants? For His life was removed from the earth.”b 34“Tell me,” said the eunuch, “who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35Then Philip began with this very Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. 36As they traveled along the road and came to some water, the eunuch said, “Look, here is water! What is there to prevent me from being baptized?”c 38And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. 39When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, but went on his way rejoicing. 40But Philip appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea. Footnotes: 27 a Greek Kandakē 33 b Isaiah 53:7–8 (see also LXX) 36 c TR includes 37And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may be baptized.” The eunuch replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures Persecution and Growth Matthew 5:10-12; 2 Timothy 3:12 Breaking Cultural Barriers John 4:4-26; Galatians 3:28 True Motives in Ministry 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; James 4:3 Guidance of the Holy Spirit John 16:13; Romans 8:14 Teaching Points Persecution and DispersionActs 8:1-4 describes how the persecution led by Saul caused the believers to scatter, yet they continued to preach the Word wherever they went. This demonstrates how God can use adversity to advance His kingdom. Philip in Samaria In Acts 8:5-8, Philip's ministry in Samaria shows the breaking of cultural barriers as he preached Christ, resulting in great joy in the city. This highlights the inclusivity of the Gospel message. Simon the Sorcerer Acts 8:9-24 introduces Simon, who believed and was baptized but later revealed a misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit's power. This serves as a warning against seeking spiritual gifts for personal gain. The Ethiopian Eunuch Acts 8:26-40 recounts Philip's divine appointment with the Ethiopian eunuch, emphasizing the importance of obedience to the Holy Spirit's leading and the power of Scripture in revealing Christ. Practical Applications Embrace ChallengesRecognize that God can use difficult circumstances in your life to spread His message and grow your faith. Break Down Barriers Be willing to reach out to those who are different from you, understanding that the Gospel is for all people. Seek Pure Motives Examine your heart to ensure that your desire for spiritual gifts and experiences is rooted in a genuine love for God and others. Be Ready to Share Like Philip, be prepared to share the Gospel at any moment, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide your words and actions. People 1. SaulSaul is introduced in Acts 8:1 as a key figure consenting to the death of Stephen. He is described as a persecutor of the church, actively seeking to destroy it by entering houses and dragging off men and women to prison (Acts 8:3). The Greek term used for "destroy" (λυμαίνομαι, lymainomai) implies a violent and aggressive action. 2. Philip Philip, one of the seven deacons chosen earlier in Acts 6, is a central figure in Acts 8. He goes to Samaria to preach the gospel, performing signs and miracles, which lead to great joy in the city (Acts 8:5-8). His role as an evangelist is highlighted by his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch later in the chapter (Acts 8:26-40). 3. Simon the Sorcerer Simon, also known as Simon Magus, is a magician in Samaria who previously amazed the people with his sorcery (Acts 8:9-11). After hearing Philip's preaching, he believes and is baptized, but later attempts to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, leading to a rebuke from Peter (Acts 8:18-24). 4. Peter The apostle Peter, along with John, is sent to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17). Peter's interaction with Simon the Sorcerer is significant, as he confronts Simon's misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit's power (Acts 8:20-23). 5. John John, the apostle, accompanies Peter to Samaria. Together, they lay hands on the believers, who then receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17). John's presence underscores the apostolic authority and unity in the early church. 6. The Ethiopian Eunuch The Ethiopian eunuch is a high-ranking official in charge of the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians (Acts 8:27). He is reading from the book of Isaiah when Philip is led by the Spirit to explain the Scriptures to him, resulting in his conversion and baptism (Acts 8:30-38). 7. Candace, Queen of the Ethiopians Although not directly involved in the events, Candace is mentioned as the queen whom the Ethiopian eunuch serves (Acts 8:27). The term "Candace" is a title used for queens of Ethiopia, similar to "Pharaoh" in Egypt. Places 1. JerusalemActs 8:1: "And Saul was there, giving approval to Stephen’s death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Description: Jerusalem is the central city for Jewish worship and the early Christian church. It is where the apostles remained during the persecution. 2. Judea Acts 8:1: "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Description: Judea is the region surrounding Jerusalem. The Greek term "Ἰουδαία" (Ioudaia) refers to the southern part of ancient Israel. 3. Samaria Acts 8:1: "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Acts 8:5: "Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them." Description: Samaria is the region north of Judea. The Greek "Σαμάρεια" (Samareia) refers to both the region and its central city. Philip's ministry here marks a significant expansion of the early church beyond Jewish boundaries. 4. Gaza Acts 8:26: "Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Get up and go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.'" Description: Gaza is a Philistine city located southwest of Jerusalem. The Greek "Γάζα" (Gaza) indicates a significant location on the trade route to Egypt. 5. Azotus Acts 8:40: "But Philip appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea." Description: Azotus, known in Greek as "Ἄζωτος" (Azotos), is the ancient Philistine city of Ashdod, located on the Mediterranean coast. 6. Caesarea Acts 8:40: "But Philip appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea." Description: Caesarea, or "Καισάρεια" (Kaisareia) in Greek, is a major Roman port city on the Mediterranean coast, serving as a significant center for early Christian activity. Events 1. Persecution of the Church in JerusalemThe chapter begins with the severe persecution of the early Christian church in Jerusalem, following the martyrdom of Stephen. "On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria" (Acts 8:1). The Greek word for "persecution" (διωγμός, diogmos) indicates a systematic effort to oppress and harass the believers. 2. Philip in Samaria Philip, one of the seven deacons, goes to Samaria to preach the gospel. "Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ to them" (Acts 8:5). The Greek term for "proclaimed" (κηρύσσω, kerysso) suggests a public declaration or heralding of the message of Christ. 3. Signs and Miracles Philip performs signs and miracles, leading to great joy in the city. "With one accord, the crowds paid attention to what Philip said, as they heard and saw the signs he performed" (Acts 8:6). The Greek word for "signs" (σημεῖα, semeia) refers to miraculous events that signify divine authority. 4. Simon the Sorcerer Simon, a sorcerer in Samaria, believes and is baptized after witnessing the miracles performed by Philip. "Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was amazed by the great signs and miracles he observed" (Acts 8:13). The Greek word for "sorcerer" (μάγος, magos) indicates someone who practices magic or sorcery. 5. Peter and John Visit Samaria The apostles Peter and John are sent to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit. "When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them" (Acts 8:14). The Greek term for "receive" (λαμβάνω, lambano) implies an active acceptance or taking hold of something. 6. The Holy Spirit Given Peter and John lay hands on the believers, and they receive the Holy Spirit. "Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit" (Acts 8:17). The act of laying on hands (ἐπιτίθημι, epitithemi) is a symbolic gesture of impartation and blessing. 7. Simon's Attempt to Buy the Holy Spirit Simon offers money to Peter and John to obtain the power to bestow the Holy Spirit. "Give me this power as well," he said, "so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit" (Acts 8:19). The Greek word for "power" (ἐξουσία, exousia) refers to authority or capability. 8. Peter Rebukes Simon Peter rebukes Simon for his attempt to buy the gift of God with money. "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!" (Acts 8:20). The Greek term for "gift" (δωρεά, dorea) emphasizes the free and unmerited nature of God's blessings. 9. Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch An angel of the Lord directs Philip to meet an Ethiopian eunuch on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. "Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza'" (Acts 8:26). The Greek word for "angel" (ἄγγελος, angelos) means messenger, often referring to a divine messenger. 10. The Eunuch's Conversion Philip explains the Scriptures to the eunuch, leading to his conversion and baptism. "Then Philip began with this very Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus" (Acts 8:35). The Greek term for "good news" (εὐαγγελίζω, euangelizo) is the root of the word "evangelize," meaning to proclaim the gospel. 11. Philip's Departure After baptizing the eunuch, Philip is taken away by the Spirit of the Lord. "When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing" (Acts 8:39). The Greek word for "carried away" (ἁρπάζω, harpazo) suggests a sudden and forceful removal. 12. Philip Preaches in Other Towns Philip continues to preach the gospel in various towns until he reaches Caesarea. "Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled through that region, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he came to Caesarea" (Acts 8:40). The Greek term for "preaching" (εὐαγγελίζω, euangelizo) again emphasizes the proclamation of the gospel message. Lessons from Acts 8 1. The Power of Persecution 2. The Role of the Holy Spirit 3. The Importance of Obedience 4. The Universality of the Gospel 5. The Power of Scripture 6. The Joy of Salvation 7. The Necessity of Baptism 8. The Sovereignty of God 9. The Impact of One 10. The Continuation of the Mission Topics 1. Persecution and Scattering of the Church (Acts 8:1-3)Following the martyrdom of Stephen, a great persecution arises against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria. Saul (later Paul) is noted for his role in ravaging the church, entering homes, and imprisoning both men and women. The Greek word for "ravaging" (λυμαίνομαι, lymainomai) conveys the idea of brutal and destructive actions. 2. Philip in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8) Philip, one of the seven deacons, preaches the gospel in Samaria, performing signs and miracles. The people of Samaria receive his message with great joy. The Greek term for "preaching" (εὐαγγελίζω, euangelizō) emphasizes the proclamation of the good news. 3. Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:9-13) Simon, a sorcerer in Samaria, amazes the people with his magic and claims to be someone great. However, he believes and is baptized after witnessing the signs performed by Philip. The Greek word for "sorcery" (μαγεία, mageia) indicates the practice of magic arts. 4. Peter and John in Samaria (Acts 8:14-17) The apostles in Jerusalem send Peter and John to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit, as they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. The laying on of hands is used as a means for the Holy Spirit to be given. 5. The Sin of Simon (Acts 8:18-24) Simon offers money to Peter and John, seeking the power to bestow the Holy Spirit. Peter rebukes him, urging repentance for his wickedness. The Greek term for "gift" (δωρεά, dōrea) highlights the free and unmerited nature of the Holy Spirit's impartation. 6. Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40) An angel of the Lord directs Philip to meet an Ethiopian eunuch on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. The eunuch is reading Isaiah and seeks understanding. Philip explains the scripture, leading to the eunuch's belief and baptism. The Greek word for "baptize" (βαπτίζω, baptizō) signifies immersion, reflecting the practice of early Christian baptism. Themes 1. Persecution and Scattering of the ChurchActs 8:1-4 describes the severe persecution that arose against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria. This persecution, led by Saul, paradoxically resulted in the spread of the Gospel. The Greek word for "scattered" (διασπείρω, diaspeirō) implies a purposeful sowing, suggesting that God used persecution to plant the seeds of the Gospel in new regions. 2. Philip's Evangelistic Mission Acts 8:5-8 highlights Philip's mission in Samaria, where he preached Christ and performed miracles. The Greek term for "preached" (κηρύσσω, kēryssō) indicates a public proclamation, emphasizing the boldness and authority with which Philip shared the Gospel. The resulting joy in the city underscores the transformative power of the Gospel message. 3. The Power of the Holy Spirit In Acts 8:14-17, Peter and John are sent to Samaria to pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit. The passage emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit's empowerment for effective Christian living and ministry. The Greek word for "receive" (λαμβάνω, lambanō) suggests an active reception, highlighting the believers' openness to the Spirit's work. 4. Confrontation with False Belief Acts 8:18-24 recounts Simon the Sorcerer's attempt to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, revealing a misunderstanding of God's gifts. Peter's rebuke underscores the theme of purity in ministry and the danger of mixing true faith with selfish ambition. The Greek term for "gift" (δωρεά, dōrea) emphasizes the grace and generosity of God, contrasting with Simon's transactional mindset. 5. The Inclusivity of the Gospel Acts 8:26-40 narrates Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch, illustrating the Gospel's reach beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries. The eunuch's conversion and baptism signify the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy regarding the inclusion of foreigners (Isaiah 56:3-5). The Greek word for "baptized" (βαπτίζω, baptizō) signifies immersion, symbolizing the eunuch's full identification with Christ. Prayer Points Pray for strength and courage for believers facing persecution around the world.Ask God to help you see opportunities to share the Gospel in your daily life. Pray for a heart that seeks God’s glory above personal gain. Request guidance from the Holy Spirit to lead you to those who are seeking truth. As we reflect on Acts 8, may we be inspired to trust in God's sovereignty, embrace His mission, and be faithful witnesses of His love and truth. Answering Tough Questions 1. How should the miraculous healings in Acts 8:5–7 be understood without clear historical or scientific corroboration? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How did the persecution of the church contribute to the spread of the Gospel? 2. What can we learn from Philip's ministry and his obedience to God's direction? 3. How does Simon the sorcerer's story illustrate the difference between genuine and false belief? 4. What lessons can we draw from the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch? 5. How does Saul's role in persecuting the church contrast with his later mission? 6. Why was it significant that the Gospel was being preached and accepted in Samaria? 7. What does Peter's confrontation with Simon the sorcerer reveal about the early church's stance on spiritual integrity? 8. How did the Holy Spirit guide and empower the believers in this chapter? 9. What significance does the Ethiopian eunuch's authority in his homeland hold for the spread of the Gospel? 10. How does this chapter inspire us to be open to God's leading in sharing the Gospel? 11. In the face of adversity and displacement, how would you share the Gospel like the persecuted believers? 12. How would you respond if you encounter a situation like Simon's in today's church? 13. How does the Ethiopian eunuch's eagerness to understand the Scripture challenge your Bible study habits? 14. Can you identify areas in your life where you might be behaving like Simon the sorcerer, seeking to gain from God rather than to know God? 15. How do you see the work of the Holy Spirit in your life and in the lives of others around you? 16. How can you cultivate the same obedience and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit as seen in Philip's life? 17. How would you guide someone who, like the Ethiopian eunuch, is seeking to understand the Scriptures? 18. How does the chapter challenge your understanding and response to persecution for the sake of the Gospel? 19. How can you apply the lesson of Simon the sorcerer to guard against the commercialization of the Gospel in today's world? 20. In what ways does Acts 8 inspire you to spread the Gospel in your own sphere of influence? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
    |