Taking Time to Witness

Acts 8

Today's story at Christian Wee Learn was about Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch. I read the story to the kids from Acts 8, and then we discussed why Philip witnessed to this man, and what he told him. We also discussed the importance of telling others who Jesus is and what He did for us on the cross. I drew their attention to Acts 1:8. That was Jesus' final charge to His disciples as He ascended into Heaven. It was a charge that the disciples held onto and carried out. They began in Jerusalem, and eventually moved to other parts of Judea (like we saw in today's story). Eventually, people such as Paul began spreading the Word to other countries. The early church had a drive to tell people the "Good News" or the Gospel. When they encountered someone, they shared their faith.

What about us? Do we take the time to tell someone about Jesus or do we just blow it off and walk the other way? Do we act on the Holy Spirit's prompting or do we ignore the Holy Spirit and pretend like it did not happen? I cannot answer this question for anyone but myself. I do not know which avenue you choose in life. I would hope you choose the first, but I know that we all mess up and at times neglect to share our faith with those around us.

After the story today I had a series of questions to ask the kids to spark some discussion. One of those questions asked if Philip was on the road because he was bored. The answer was no. He was prompted by God to travel in that direction for the sole purpose of meeting up with this man from Ethiopia. Another question asked if Philip neglected to share the Gospel with the man. Once again, the answer was no. Philip gladly told this man who Jesus was and how the passage from Isaiah connected with Jesus. Philip was not afraid to step out and share his faith. In fact, he was more than happy to have such an opportunity.

I encourage you today to not be afraid to step out and tell someone about your Savior. As I said earlier, we all fail. We all know of times when we could have told someone about Jesus but walked the other way. But despite what your past may or may not hold, look to the future. Start over and find someone who you think needs to hear about Jesus. Tell them about the difference He has made in your life. Be like Philip and follow the Lord's call. Do not be afraid to step out and take a chance. This is the most important decision someone could ever make.

Matt