Marie’s daily verse: Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. PSALM 112:5.

DAILY DEVOTION, November 20, 2022

Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” He answered, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (Acts 8:37).

In context, the Ethiopian eunuch is reading the Bible in his chariot but does not understand what he is reading. Philip is led by the Holy Spirit to this man to help him understand. The eunuch is reading from Isaiah 53 about a lamb led to the slaughter. The eunuch is puzzled by the words of Isaiah. Was Isaiah speaking about himself or another?

Philip used that Scripture to preach Jesus to him. Jesus was the lamb of God led to the slaughter. Philip instructed him that all who believe in Jesus are forgiven of their sins and receive the gift of eternal life. As Philip proclaimed Jesus to the Ethiopian, faith was born. He wanted to be a disciple of Jesus. He was instructed that baptism was the first step. The Ethiopian confessed his faith in Jesus in Acts 8:37 and was subsequently baptized.

In order for anyone to come to true faith they must understand the Scriptures and how they direct us to Jesus, possibly needing help from another.  When faith is born, baptism follows. Baptism is closely connected with faith elsewhere in the New Testament. Every true believer accepts baptism unless they are incorrectly taught.

Thank You, Father, for sending Jesus to redeem us. Thank you that I have come to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Amen.