Introduction
Philip (Greek: Philippos tis Bēthsaidas) was born circa AD 10 (3770–3771 in the Hebrew calendar) in the Roman district of Gaulanitis. He was a fisherman from the city of Bethsaida and worked with Andrew and Peter (see John 1:44; 12:21). Philip of Bethsaida should not be confused with the evangelist Philip of Jerusalem, whom the apostles appointed a deacon with Stephen to manage the church's distribution to widows (see Acts 6:5).
Philip's role as one of the original twelve apostles highlights the diversity among Jesus' closest followers. Hailing from a humble background as a fisherman in Bethsaida, Philip's journey with Jesus reflects the inclusive nature of Christ's ministry, reaching out to people from various walks of life. His encounters with Jesus, recorded in the gospels, offer valuable insights into faith, discipleship, and the transformative power of encountering the living Christ. Despite the limited information available about his specific actions and teachings, Philip's presence among the apostles underscores the significance of each individual's contribution to spreading the Christian message. Through his obedience and dedication, Philip exemplifies the call for all believers to share the good news of salvation and to lead others into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
Philip the Apostle
The synoptic gospel writers listed Philip among Jesus' twelve apostles without giving any further details about him (see Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14). John, however, provided a little more about his calling as a disciple:
The next day Jesus, decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, "Follow me." Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph" (John 1:43-45).
Philip was an efficient man. When they ran out of food for the crowd of 5,000, Philip was the apostle whom Jesus chose to test. Jesus knew he would multiply the fishes and the loaves of bread supernaturally just as the prophet Elisha had done (John 6:5-6; cf. 2 Kgs. 4:42-44). Philip answered, "It would take more than half a year's wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!"(John 6:7). However, Jesus continued to feed the multitude with five loaves and two small fish.
Bringing People to Jesus
Like Andrew, Philip does not get much coverage in the Bible. Yet, when he appears, Philip asks practical questions and leads people to know God through Jesus. He served as a Jewish liaison to the Greek community. Although he was Galilean, Philip had a Greek name (Philippos; G5376, "lover of horses"), spoke in the koinē Greek dialect, and had a rapport with the Hellenistic Jewish pilgrims in Jerusalem. He informed Andrew that certain Greeks wished to meet Jesus, and they went together to tell him about it (see John 12:21). Jesus knew that Greeks usually took issue with resurrection (see Acts 17:31-32; 1 Cor. 1:23), so he challenged these men on the topic: "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. . . . Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me" (John 12:23, 25-26). Jesus was teaching them about discipleship and salvation—made perfect in his resurrection and glorification.
During the Last Supper, Philip inquired of Jesus, "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us" (John 14:8). Jesus responded, "Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father?' Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work" (vv. 9-10). Philip's question allowed Jesus to teach us about the unity of the Father and the Son (see "Trinity: Jewish & Gentile Views"). Although the New Testament writers did not mention Philip much, his brief appearances involved some essential theological concepts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Philip of Bethsaida emerges from the pages of history as a testament to the diverse and inclusive community surrounding Jesus during his ministry. As one of the original twelve apostles, Philip's humble origins as a fisherman and his unwavering commitment to following Jesus inspire believers across generations. While the details of his life and teachings may be scarce, Philip's presence among the apostles speaks volumes about the importance of every individual's role in spreading the Christian message. His example challenges us to embrace our unique calling, share the transformative message of God's love, and lead others into a deeper relationship with the living Christ. Philip's legacy reminds us that no matter our background or circumstance, we all have a part to play in furthering God's kingdom and proclaiming the hope found in Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Blessed are you, LORD our God, King of the universe; you gave your apostle Philip the grace and strength to witness Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. Grant that we, mindful of his victory of faith, may glorify in life and death the name of our Lord Jesus the Messiah, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Bibliography
The Book of Common Prayer. Huntington Beach, CA: Anglican Liturgy Press, 2019. p. 628. http://bcp2019.anglicanchurch.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/BCP2019.pdf.
Kranz, Jeffrey. The Beginner's Guide to the Bible. Bellingham, WA: OverviewBible, 2020.
Laurie, Greg. "Who Was the Apostle Philip?" Christianity.com. Richmond: Salem Web Network, 2011. https://www.christianity.com/jesus/life-of-jesus/disciples/what-do-we-know-about-the-apostle-philip.html.
Nelson, Ryan. "Who Was Philip the Apostle? The Beginner's Guide." Bellingham, WA: OverviewBible, 2019. https://overviewbible.com/philip-the-apostle.
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