A Series of Christmas Devotions Reflecting on the Incarnational Ministry of Bible Translation
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture, he told him the good news about Jesus.” — Acts 8:35 (ESV)
Human communication has taken many forms through the ages. From carrier pigeons to post offices to emails, we’ve always found a way to get our message across. We reflect the creativity of our heavenly Father, who spoke through angels, a burning bush, and even a talking donkey!
Yet, a common thread of God’s communication strategy is evident: He consistently makes Himself known through His people, through His Word. He doesn’t hesitate to use broken vessels to shine the light of truth. Christ, before ascending, gave His followers this very mission: to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).

That mission directed Philip as he traveled the desert road from Jerusalem to Gaza in Acts 8:26–40. On the way, he saw an Ethiopian eunuch reading Scripture in a chariot. Prompted by the Spirit, Philip ran up to him and asked, “Do you understand what you’re reading?”
“How can I, unless someone guides me?” the eunuch responded. Philip joined him in the chariot to see what he was reading: Isaiah 53, a messianic prophecy. The eunuch was reading about Jesus—but he didn’t know it!
Yet no angel appeared. No bush caught fire. Instead, “Philip opened his mouth, and … he told him the good news about Jesus” (v. 35). The eunuch then asked to be baptized immediately. After Philip left him, he went away rejoicing.
Every day, God’s children repeat this pattern. We gather around His Word to discuss it, to challenge and encourage one another through it. We are transformed by its message—and then we share that message with others, believing it will transform them too.
A Question to Ask Yourself: How has the Lord brought people into my life to help me better understand His Word, and how can I do the same for someone else?
Why does this matter to Bible translation?
1.4 billion people can’t access the Bible in their language. They can’t read or hear the news, the good news, that Jesus came to earth to set them free. Journey here to find out how you can fuel the Bible translation movement and here for relevant prayer needs from projects around the world.


