Pastor's Perspective: The Road to Gaza

As it is today, the ancient city of Gaza has long been a thorn in the side of Israel. Dating back to the period of the Judges, before 1100 BC, Sampson was imprisoned and killed in this city. In about 1000 BC David conquered Gaza and it remained under Solomons control as well. In Acts 8, the road from Jerusalem to Gaza that God instructed Phillip to travel was a lonely desert road. Why would God ask Phillip to leave the fruitful revival in Samaria and travel on a deserted road that leads to a difficult place? When we are obedient, led by the Spirit, we may also encounter surprises, even at first impression, disappointments. In Acts 8, Phillip’s divine appointment with a single man that he encountered on the Gaza road may have affected an entire continent with the gospel. The Egyptian Coptic Christians today trace the gospel back to this Ethiopian Eunuch. May we all continue to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit, being led (surprised) by the Spirit.

What prevents me from being baptized? This was the question the Ethiopian asked Phillip after his conversion. This is a good question to ask ourselves today as well. May we always keep God’s simple plan of salvation and baptism clutter free. This Sunday we will be offering believers baptism for anyone who has been born again. If you would like to be baptized, bring a dry set of clothes and a heart surrendered to Jesus.
Learning to follow, see you on Sunday!
Pastor Marv