Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
Then {G1161} the Spirit {G4151} said {G2036} unto Philip {G5376}, Go near {G4334}, and {G2532} join thyself to {G2853} this {G5129} chariot {G716}.
The Spirit said to Philip, “Go over to this chariot, and stay close to it.”
The Spirit said to Philip, “Go over to that chariot and stay by it.”
And the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
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Acts 10:19
¶ While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. -
Acts 11:12
And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house: -
Acts 20:22
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: -
Acts 20:23
Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. -
Acts 13:2
As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. -
Acts 13:4
¶ So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. -
Acts 16:6
¶ Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,
Context
Acts 8:29 finds Philip, one of the seven deacons chosen in Acts 6:5, in a pivotal moment of his ministry. Having just experienced a powerful revival in Samaria and then being supernaturally transported by the Spirit to the road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza, Philip is now poised for a divinely orchestrated encounter. This verse describes the precise, immediate instruction given to him by the Holy Spirit, directing his next steps towards an individual whose heart God was preparing.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "Then the Spirit said" (Greek: to Pneuma eipen) underscores the direct and authoritative nature of the communication. It implies a clear, discernible voice or impression from the Holy Spirit, not merely a human inclination. The command "Go near, and join thyself" (Greek: proselthe kai kollēthēti) uses the verb kollēthēti, which means to "glue oneself to," "cleave to," or "adhere closely." This suggests a strong, intentional attachment and proximity, indicating that Philip was to become intimately involved in the situation at hand, not just observe from a distance.
Significance and Application
Acts 8:29 holds profound significance for believers today. It reminds us that God is actively at work in the world, often orchestrating encounters and opening doors for the Gospel through the leading of His Spirit. For us, this verse encourages: