Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. And there was great joy in that city.
Acts 8:5-8

Last time we considered what it took to get Phillip to go to Samaria (the home of the people most hated by the Jews) to preach Christ. This time, let’s consider the result of Phillip’s “missionary journey.”

Multitudes of the people heeded the gospel message. Our responsibility is to speak the gospel. Only God can open peoples’ hearts and minds. He will not do His part if we do not do our part. But if we do our part, He will do His. Will everyone be saved? Not usually—but some will! Oh Lord, embolden our hearts and loosen our tongues!

Miracles happened. Some of the miracles listed were physical. When the sick are healed, they will become sick again—and all will eventually die. But the greatest miracle: spiritual salvation, is forever. Yes, we pray for the sick, and God can heal, whether by miracle or medicine. But the miracle we should most long to witness is regeneration. Oh Lord, please be merciful to those who are physically impaired, but above all, may we see the spiritually dead raised to eternal life in Christ!

There was great joy in the city. When a city’s sports team wins a championship, the people party in the streets. And the party ends, usually leaving no small amount of trash in the streets. Though a few teams win two championships in a row, most do not. But when people who are dead in sin are made alive together with Christ—that is forever, and that is cause for ceaseless joy. Oh Lord, may we experience the joy of our salvation, and may we see it in others who join us in following Jesus!