Spirit Led Evangelism

Acts 8:26-40

As the gospel continues to move outward from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth,  Luke teaches us about the sovereign work of the Spirit in accomplishing the miracle of salvation.

I. Direction of the Spirit (vv. 26-29)

1)     An angel directs Philip to leave the revival in Samaria and go to the middle of the desert

a.       Philip’s obedience to this seemingly illogical request is remarkable

b.      Philip’s willingness to leave the multitudes in order to reach one lost soul reflects the heart of Jesus!

2)     Spirit directs Philip to approach the Eunuch’s chariot

a.       Would have required tremendous boldness to approach this impressive envoy

b.      Philip’s faith in Christ is expressed through radical obedience

3)     How attentive are we to the Spirit’s direction?

II. Preparation of the Spirit (vv. 30-33)

1)     God’s Preparatory work in the Eunuch

a.       He was a ‘God-fearer’ (uncircumcised convert to Judaism)

b.      He travelled 200 miles in search of God, but God was really pursuing Him!

c.       He had access to the Jewish Scriptures

d.      The Isaiah scroll was open to one of the most amazing predictions about Jesus in the entire Bible – Isaiah 53!

2)     We proclaim the message, but only God can prepare the heart!

III. Provision of the Spirit (vv. 30-31, 34-35)

1)     The Spirit graciously provided the Eunuch with two gifts:

a.       The inspired Word of God

b.      A Spirit-filled teacher to help him understand it

2)     God will provide the necessary means for all of His elect to come to faith!  (cf. John 6:37-39)

IV. New Birth through the Spirit (vv. 36-39)

1)     Faith comes through the hearing of God’s Word (cf. Romans 10:12-15)

2)     The internal Baptism of the Spirit is pictured in the external ordinance of Water Baptism

a.       Water Baptism should happen at the earliest possible convenience

b.      Desire to obey God through Baptism is a sign of saving faith

3)     Are you a born-again baptized believer?