Who Was Philip in the Bible?

The name Philip, derived from the Greek name Φίλιππος (Philippos), meaning “lover of horses,” is associated with three distinct men in the New Testament. Each of these individuals played unique roles in the biblical narrative, contributing to the early Christian community and the spread of the gospel.

Philip II (Herod Philip II)

Background and Rule

Philip II, mentioned in Luke 3:1, is identified as Tetrarch Herod Philip II. He was a son of Herod the Great and ruled during the time of the New Testament. The title “tetrarch” was used in the Roman Empire to denote a ruler of a fourth part of a region. According to Luke 3:1, Herod Philip controlled Ituraea and Trachonitis. He was the brother of Ethnarch Herod Archelaus, Herod Antipas I, and Herod Philip I.

Role in the New Testament

While Philip II’s direct involvement in biblical events is limited, his rule and family connections provide a backdrop to the political landscape of the New Testament era. His rule over Ituraea and Trachonitis places him within the broader context of the Herodian dynasty’s influence and their interactions with key figures like John the Baptist and Jesus.

Philip the Evangelist

Introduction and Role in the Early Church

Philip the Evangelist, first introduced in Acts 6:5, was a significant figure in the early church. He was one of the seven chosen to serve the early Christian community, known for his faithfulness, wisdom, and being full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:3, 5). Philip was appointed to oversee the distribution of food to widows in need, ensuring fairness and care within the community.

Ministry in Samaria

In Acts 8, Philip’s ministry expands as he goes to Samaria to preach the gospel. His ministry is marked by the power of the Holy Spirit, performing miracles and signs that lead many to believe in Jesus. One notable event is his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch, where Philip explains the Scriptures and baptizes him, furthering the spread of the gospel beyond Jewish communities (Acts 8:26-39).

Philip the Disciple

One of the Twelve Apostles

Philip the Disciple is one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus. He is first mentioned in Matthew 10:3 and is listed among the twelve in the Synoptic Gospels and Acts. Philip was from Bethsaida, the same town as Peter and Andrew (John 1:44).

Key Interactions with Jesus

Philip plays a notable role in several key interactions with Jesus:

• Calling of Philip and Nathanael: In John 1:43-51, Philip is called by Jesus and immediately finds Nathanael, inviting him to meet Jesus, demonstrating his immediate acceptance and evangelistic zeal.
• Feeding of the 5,000: In John 6:5-7, Philip’s practical mindset is highlighted when Jesus asks him where they could buy bread to feed the multitude, showing his initial reliance on human reasoning before witnessing Jesus’ miraculous provision.
• Request of the Greeks: In John 12:21-22, Philip, along with Andrew, brings a request from some Greeks who wish to see Jesus, indicating his role as a bridge between different cultural groups.
• Question about the Father: In John 14:8-9, Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, leading to Jesus’ profound declaration, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”

Lessons for the Modern Christian

Faithfulness and Service

The example of Philip the Evangelist teaches modern Christians the importance of faithfulness and service. Philip’s role in serving the early church and his willingness to preach the gospel in Samaria demonstrate a commitment to God’s call, regardless of personal risk or cultural barriers.

Evangelism and Openness

Philip the Disciple’s immediate response to Jesus’ call and his effort to bring Nathanael to Jesus highlight the importance of evangelism and openness to God’s work. Modern believers are encouraged to share their faith actively and bring others to Christ, just as Philip did.

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Guidance and Provision

The stories of both Philips illustrate God’s guidance and provision. Philip the Evangelist’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch shows how God orchestrates divine appointments to spread the gospel. Similarly, Philip the Disciple’s interactions with Jesus reveal God’s desire to make Himself known and provide for His people’s needs.

Embracing God’s Mission

God’s mission involves reaching out to all people, breaking down barriers of race, culture, and social status. Philip the Evangelist’s ministry in Samaria and his interaction with the Ethiopian eunuch demonstrate God’s inclusive love and the call for Christians to embrace this mission wholeheartedly.

Connection to Jesus Christ

Following Jesus’ Example

Philip the Disciple’s close interactions with Jesus provide a model for following Christ. His questions and actions offer insights into the journey of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of seeking understanding and being open to Jesus’ teachings.

Spreading the Gospel

Both Philips exemplify the early church’s mission to spread the gospel. Their dedication and actions reflect Jesus’ Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), serving as an inspiration for modern Christians to continue sharing the good news of Christ with the world.

Conclusion

The three Philips in the New Testament each contribute uniquely to the biblical narrative, providing rich lessons for modern believers. Philip II’s political background, Philip the Evangelist’s ministry, and Philip the Disciple’s close following of Jesus all offer valuable insights into faithfulness, service, and evangelism. Their stories remind Christians of the importance of adhering to sound doctrine, being faithful in service, and actively participating in God’s mission to reach all people with the message of the gospel. Through their examples, believers are encouraged to trust in God’s guidance, embrace His love, and follow Jesus Christ wholeheartedly.