The Disciples: Philip
John 1:43-45
Philip is the fifth disciple mentioned in each of the four lists given in the gospels. If you look into the grouping of the disciples you will notice the first group is Peter, the over all leader, Andrew, his brother, and James and John the Sons of Thunder. The second group is lead by Philip. Today we will look at his life.
Philip’s name is Greek. He is the only one that does not have a Hebrew name. His name means “Lover of Horses.” Philip the disciple is also not to be confused with Philip and the Eunuch.
Peter, Andrew, James and John are all following John the Baptist and listen to his teachings. John the Baptist then introduces them to Christ. Then Christ goes and seeks out Philip. Philip then goes and tells Nathaniel that they found the Messiah that Moses and the prophets wrote about. Here we see a perfect picture of God’s sovereign will and seeking out mankind and mankind’s ability to choose God. God calls all mankind to him but few seek Him and find Him.
Philip also responded to Christ in a certain way. First he evangelized. He went right to Nathaniel and told him about Christ. When we meet Christ, He changes our lives and we cannot help but tell others. When was the last time God worked in your life in a way where you could not help but let it out? He also said come and see. The way we live our lives should show Christ to this world. Does your life match up with what you say?
Philip’s life with Christ was characterized by lack of faith. John 6:1-7 and 14:1-10 give us glimpses of this. However, the end of Philip’s life is much different. Through the ministry of Philip, multitudes came into a relationship with Christ. He also gave all for God and had ultimate faith as being one of the first disciple martyrs for the kingdom. His faith became sight as he opened his eyes in heaven to see our Savior’s face. When trials and hard times come our way, will we have faith like Philip or become cowards?