How does Acts 8:35 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene Acts 8:35 – “Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture, he proclaimed Jesus to him.” Core Parallels with the Great Commission Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Shared Elements at a Glance • Going • Proclaiming/teaching Jesus from Scripture • Making disciples • Baptizing • Ongoing instruction under Christ’s promised presence Going Beyond Comfort Zones • Matthew 28:19 commands movement: “go.” • Acts 8:26-27 shows Philip leaving a thriving Samaritan revival for a desert road—an immediate obedience to “go.” • The Ethiopian eunuch represents “all nations,” fulfilling the global scope of the Commission (cf. Acts 1:8). Scripture-Centered Proclamation • Jesus told His followers to teach “all that I have commanded” (Matthew 28:20). • Philip begins “with this Scripture” (Isaiah 53) and moves straight to Christ; the pattern: Scripture → Christ → invitation. • Romans 10:17 confirms: “faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Making Disciples Starts with Explaining the Gospel • Discipleship is birthed when someone encounters Jesus in the Word. • Philip doesn’t merely impart facts; he invites surrender to the risen Lord. • The eunuch’s response—requesting baptism—shows immediate heart change (Acts 8:36). Baptism: The Visible Seal • Matthew 28:19 places baptism at the forefront of initial obedience. • Acts 8:38 – “Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and Philip baptized him.” • The act publicly marks allegiance to Father, Son, and Spirit—just as Jesus prescribed. Teaching Continues • Matthew 28:20 emphasizes ongoing instruction. • Though Philip is caught away (Acts 8:39), the eunuch departs rejoicing, armed with Isaiah’s scroll and likely other Scriptures. • The indwelling Spirit (John 14:26) ensures the teaching ministry of Jesus continues in every new believer. Christ’s Assured Presence • Jesus promises, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • Philip experiences Spirit-directed guidance throughout Acts 8 (vv. 26, 29, 39), a living demonstration of that promise. Why the Connection Matters Today • Acts 8:35 is a living snapshot of the Great Commission in action. • Every believer is called to: – Be ready to explain Scripture and proclaim Jesus. – Step out when the Spirit says “go,” even to unlikely places. – Invite immediate, obedient response—including baptism. – Trust Christ’s presence to complete the disciple-making process. |
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