August 26

Read: Acts 6:1-8

Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them (Acts 8:5).

More Service For Sanctified Laymen

Is God’s provision for effective Christian witness limited to preachers? Our scripture reading for today answers a resounding No.

Stephen, who was so effective in testimony, and Philip, who was used of God to bring a revival to Samaria, were both laymen. They had not been called to preach; in fact the apostles had assigned them to lay activities because they were not preachers. But these men were sanctified laymen. They felt they must have some part in Christian service. They did their share, along with the other five men, in caring for the Grecian widows of the Church, but all the while they gave clear testimony to the work of God in their souls.

We are given a share in spreading the good news, not because we have been called to preach, but because we have been called out of sin; not because we have been given a place in the pulpit, but because we have been given the power of the Holy Spirit. The radiance of the sanctified life is maintained as we share it with others.

I may not be a Stephen or a Philip but God has need of me in the task of reaching my acquaintances with the gospel message. The Bible tells us, “In a great house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earthenware; and some are for honourable, and others for common use” (II Timothy 2:20, Weymouth). As a Christian, I do not try to tell God how He must use me. I only ask that He fill me with himself, and use me where I can help.

If Thou hast any errand, Lord, Send me and I’ll obey. Use me in any way Thou wilt, And make me a blessing today.

— J. H. Zelley