The Way: Boundless Inclusion

Philip & the Ethiopian

By Pastor Josh, July 12, 2025

BIBLE READINGS

  • Acts 8:26–40
  • Romans 10:9–15
  • John 10:11-16

MY NOTES

5-Day Devotional – Early Adopters of Grace

🌿 5-Day Devotional: Early Adopters of Grace

Day 1 – Spirit-Led Disruption

📖 Reading: Acts 8:26–29

The Holy Spirit doesn't wait for perfect circumstances, but calls us into wilderness places. Philip isn’t given the full picture, just an instruction: “Go.” He responds with immediate obedience, not knowing whom he’ll meet or what it will mean. God’s kingdom often grows in the unexpected margins, and the Spirit is inviting us to be part of it.

“Philip was obedient to the Holy Spirit, not the culture and worldview he was handed.”
  • Where might the Spirit be calling you that feels uncertain or risky?
  • What might Spirit-led obedience look like in your life this week?

Day 2 – The Courage to Ask

📖 Reading: Acts 8:30–31

Philip runs up to a stranger and asks a bold, compassionate question: “Do you understand what you are reading?” Questions can be sacred tools. Instead of assuming, Philip listens. Grace begins with curiosity, not judgment.

“Philip doesn’t hesitate. He RUNS up to the chariot, and asks a brilliant question to open up the conversation.”
  • How can questions help build bridges instead of walls?
  • When was the last time someone truly listened to you? How did it feel?

Day 3 – Radical Inclusion

📖 Reading: Isaiah 56:3–5

The Ethiopian eunuch was likely familiar with laws that excluded him, but Isaiah’s prophetic voice gives hope: “To the eunuchs... I will give an everlasting name.” God’s story has always been bigger than human boundaries.

“How can I say no when the Spirit of God is so clearly saying yes?”
  • Who are the “outsiders” today?
  • What does it mean for you to embody the radical inclusion of Jesus?

Day 4 – What Is to Prevent Me?

📖 Reading: Acts 8:36–38

The eunuch’s question is filled with vulnerability and longing: “What is to prevent me from being baptized?” Philip’s answer is the Gospel in action—nothing. Grace doesn't wait until we’re worthy. Grace welcomes us where we are.

“Philip had a critical choice to make… to live under grace, not under the law.”
  • Have you ever felt “cut off” from community or grace?
  • What might God be inviting you to step into without hesitation?

Day 5 – Following the Spirit Today

📖 Reading: John 1:43–46

Philip’s story starts with Jesus simply saying, “Follow me,” and Philip saying yes. From day one, he invited others to “come and see.” The Spirit’s leading didn’t stop with Acts—it continues in us. Are we willing to go wherever God leads?

“May we, like Philip, be courageously obedient wherever the Spirit leads us.”
  • What area of your life needs courageous obedience right now?
  • Where might the Spirit be leading Good Shepherd as a church?