Acts 8:6

And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.

And {G5037} the people {G3793} with one accord {G3661} gave heed {G4337} unto those things which Philip {G5376} spake {G3004}{G5259}, hearing {G1722}{G191}{G846} and {G2532} seeing {G991} the miracles {G4592} which {G3739} he did {G4160}.

and the crowds were paying close attention to what Philip said, as they heard and saw the miraculous signs he was doing.

The crowds gave their undivided attention to Philip’s message and to the signs they saw him perform.

And the multitudes gave heed with one accord unto the things that were spoken by Philip, when they heard, and saw the signs which he did.

Commentary

Acts 8:6 describes a pivotal moment in the expansion of the early Christian message, focusing on the ministry of Philip in Samaria. This verse highlights the remarkable receptivity of the Samaritan people to Philip's preaching, largely due to the powerful miracles he performed.

Context

This verse follows a significant turning point in the Book of Acts. After the martyrdom of Stephen (see Acts 7:60) and the ensuing persecution in Jerusalem, believers were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1). Philip, one of the seven deacons appointed to serve the church (as seen in Acts 6:5), went to the city of Samaria to preach Christ (Acts 8:5). Historically, Samaritans and Jews had deep-seated animosity, making Philip's successful evangelism among them a powerful testament to the universal reach of the gospel.

Key Themes

  • Unified Attention and Receptivity: The phrase "with one accord" emphasizes the extraordinary unity and collective focus of the Samaritan populace. This was not a fragmented or indifferent response but a widespread, simultaneous giving of attention to Philip's message. It signifies a remarkable harmony in their willingness to listen.
  • Miracles as Divine Validation: The verse explicitly states that the people "gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did." These signs and wonders—which included casting out unclean spirits and healing the paralyzed and lame (Acts 8:7)—served as undeniable evidence that Philip's message was from God. They authenticated his divine commission and the truth of the gospel he proclaimed, much like miracles validated the ministry of Jesus and the apostles (see Hebrews 2:4).
  • The Power of the Gospel: Philip's ministry demonstrates how the early church spread the good news. It wasn't merely through eloquent speech but through the accompanying power of the Holy Spirit, confirming the message and leading to widespread belief and joy (Acts 8:8).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "with one accord" translates the Greek word homothymadon (ὁμοθυμαδόν), which literally means "with one mind," "with one passion," or "with one purpose." This powerful term is used frequently in the Book of Acts to describe the remarkable unity and collective enthusiasm of the early Christian community, such as their prayer life in Acts 1:14 or their daily fellowship in Acts 2:46. Its use here highlights the collective, harmonious, and eager response of the Samaritans.

Practical Application

Acts 8:6 offers several timeless lessons. It reminds us that God often confirms His word with supernatural signs and works, drawing people's attention and validating His messengers. While the manifestation of miracles may vary across different times and contexts, the principle remains: God's truth has inherent power to capture hearts. This verse encourages believers to present the gospel boldly, trusting that God will work to authenticate His message and gather those who are drawn by Him. Furthermore, the unity of the people in giving heed underscores the importance of a receptive audience and the potential for widespread spiritual awakening when God's power is at work.

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Cross-References

  • John 4:41 (2 votes)

    And many more believed because of his own word;

  • John 4:42 (2 votes)

    And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard [him] ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

  • Acts 13:44 (1 votes)

    And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

  • Matthew 20:15 (1 votes)

    Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?

  • Matthew 20:16 (1 votes)

    So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

  • 2 Chronicles 30:12 (1 votes)

    Also in Judah the hand of God was to give them one heart to do the commandment of the king and of the princes, by the word of the LORD.