Acts 8:12

But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

But {G1161} when {G3753} they believed {G4100} Philip {G5376} preaching {G2097} the things concerning {G4012} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}, and {G2532} the name {G3686} of Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, they were baptized {G907}, both {G5037} men {G435} and {G2532} women {G1135}.

But when they came to believe Philip, as he announced the Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Yeshua the Messiah, they were immersed, both men and women.

But when they believed Philip as he preached the gospel of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

But when they believed Philip preaching good tidings concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

Commentary

Acts 8:12 details a pivotal moment in the expansion of the early Christian church, specifically through the ministry of Philip in Samaria. This verse highlights the core message of the Gospel, the response of faith, and the immediate action of baptism.

Context

Following the severe persecution that arose after the martyrdom of Stephen in Jerusalem, many believers, including Philip, one of the seven deacons appointed in Acts 6, were scattered. Philip traveled to Samaria, a region historically at odds with Judea. Despite this historical animosity, Philip's powerful preaching and miraculous signs led to a significant spiritual awakening among the Samaritans, paving the way for the events described in this verse.

Key Themes

  • The Content of the Gospel Message: Philip's preaching focused on two crucial aspects: "the things concerning the kingdom of God" and "the name of Jesus Christ." This indicates that the early evangelists proclaimed God's sovereign rule and the saving power and authority inherent in Christ's identity. This dual focus was central to the message Jesus himself preached.
  • The Nature of Belief: The Samaritans "believed" Philip's message. This belief was not merely intellectual assent but a transformative trust that led to action. It signifies a genuine acceptance of the truth about God's kingdom and the person of Jesus Christ.
  • The Act of Baptism: As a direct consequence of their belief, they were "baptized." In the early church, baptism was the immediate, public declaration of faith and commitment to Christ, symbolizing repentance, new life, and identification with Jesus' death and resurrection. This aligns with the Great Commission's command to baptize believers.
  • Inclusivity of the Gospel: The phrase "both men and women" underscores the universal reach of the Gospel. In a society where women often held a secondary status, their inclusion in baptism highlights the radical equality and accessibility of salvation and church membership for all who believe, regardless of gender or social standing.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "believed" here is episteusan (from pisteuo), which denotes an active, trusting faith, not just intellectual acknowledgment. "The kingdom of God" (Greek: basileia tou theou) refers to God's active reign and sovereign rule, which has broken into human history through Christ. "The name of Jesus Christ" (Greek: to onoma IΔ“sou Christou) is more than just a label; it encompasses His authority, character, and saving power, which is why salvation is found in no other name.

Practical Application

Acts 8:12 serves as a foundational example for evangelism and discipleship. It reminds us that effective ministry centers on clearly proclaiming the good news of God's kingdom and the saving work of Jesus Christ. The response to this message should be genuine faith, leading to a public confession through baptism. This verse also affirms the inclusive nature of the Christian faith, welcoming all people, regardless of background, who turn to Christ in belief and commitment.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 2:38 (10 votes)

    Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

  • Acts 1:3 (7 votes)

    To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:

  • Matthew 28:19 (6 votes)

    Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

  • 1 Peter 3:21 (4 votes)

    ΒΆ The like figure whereunto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

  • Acts 2:41 (4 votes)

    Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added [unto them] about three thousand souls.

  • Galatians 3:28 (3 votes)

    There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

  • Romans 10:10 (3 votes)

    For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.