A MODEL CONVERSION

1. Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary defines the word "model," when used as an adjective, as: "serving as or capable of serving as a pattern."

2. The conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch, recorded in Acts 8:26-40, serves as a model conversion in that the scriptures provide us with several characteristics that must be present in all conversions.

I. Model preacher – Phillip (verse 26).

A. When the angel of the Lord told Phillip to go toward the south, Phillip arose and went (verse 27). When the Spirit told Phillip to go and join himself to the chariot, he ran and went (verse 30). Phillip realized the urgency of the situation.

B. Phillip did not prejudge the actions of the eunuch. The eunuch was a religious man, but Phillip did not fail to realize the eunuch might change his beliefs when taught. The eunuch was a man of authority, but Phillip did not fail to see that the eunuch could still realize his need for God. Re: Luke 8:15 (honest and good heart).

II. Model hearer – eunuch (verses 27-31).

A. Eunuch was inquisitive. The eunuch had been to Jerusalem to worship. Yet he supplemented this worship with his personal study of the scriptures. He had a desire to hear the scriptures explained (verse 31). Re: Acts 17:11 (Bereans searched the scriptures daily).

B. Eunuch, willing to listen to what Phillip had to say, had an open mind. Re: II Thessalonians 2:10 (Paul wrote concerning those who had no love of the truth, that they might be saved).

III. Model means of conversion – the gospel (verses 32-35).

A. Men are saved from their sins by the gospel of Christ. Re: Romans 1:16 (the gospel is the power of God unto salvations), along with Romans 10:17 (faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God).

B. When Phillip preached the gospel of Christ, he preached those things concerning the kingdom of God (the church), the name of Jesus Christ, and baptism (Acts 8:5-12).

IV. Model response – quick obedience (verses 36-40).

A. Just as Phillip realized the urgency of the situation, the eunuch also realized the same urgency. Re: II Corinthians 6:2 (now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation).

B. Phillip’s obedience stands in stark contrast to that of Felix. Re: Acts 24:25 (Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee).

1. Does your heart have the characteristics that are necessary for you to be converted?