Who Was Philip in the Bible?
Quick Summary
Philip is the name of two different figures in the New Testament. One Philip was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, appearing primarily in the Gospel of John. The other, often called Philip the Evangelist, was a leader in the early church whose ministry is recorded in the book of Acts. Both figures played important but distinct roles in the spread of the gospel.
Introduction
The New Testament refers to more than one person named Philip, which can lead to confusion. Scripture, however, presents two clearly different individuals whose ministries unfold in different contexts. Philip the Apostle appears during Jesus’ earthly ministry, while Philip the Evangelist emerges after the resurrection as a missionary figure in the expanding church.
Understanding which Philip is being referenced in a given passage is essential for reading the New Testament accurately. Together, these two figures illustrate the continuity between Jesus’ ministry and the life of the early church.
Philip the Apostle
Philip the Apostle was one of the original twelve disciples chosen by Jesus (Matthew 10:3). He was from Bethsaida, the same town as Peter and Andrew (John 1:44). Philip appears most prominently in the Gospel of John, where he is portrayed as thoughtful, sincere, and sometimes uncertain.
Philip is the disciple who brings Nathanael to Jesus, inviting him to see for himself who Jesus is (John 1:45–46). This simple act of witness reflects Philip’s role as a bridge between people and Christ.
Philip in the Gospel of John
In John’s Gospel, Philip often asks questions that move the conversation forward. When Jesus feeds the five thousand, he turns to Philip to ask where bread might be bought, highlighting Philip’s practical mindset (John 6:5–7).
Later, Philip brings a request from Greek seekers who want to see Jesus, signaling the widening scope of Jesus’ mission (John 12:20–22). At the Last Supper, Philip asks Jesus to show the Father, prompting Jesus’ teaching about his unity with God (John 14:8–9).
These moments portray Philip as a disciple who seeks understanding and facilitates access to Jesus, even when he does not fully grasp the implications.
Philip the Evangelist
A different Philip appears in the book of Acts. Often called Philip the Evangelist, he was one of the seven appointed to assist with leadership and service in the Jerusalem church (Acts 6:1–6).
After persecution scattered believers from Jerusalem, Philip traveled to Samaria, where he preached the gospel and performed signs, leading many to faith (Acts 8:4–8). His ministry demonstrates the spread of Christianity beyond Jerusalem and into new cultural settings.
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
One of the most significant episodes involving Philip the Evangelist is his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26–40). Guided by the Spirit, Philip explains Scripture to a foreign official and baptizes him.
This encounter highlights themes of guidance, inclusion, and responsiveness to God’s direction. Philip’s willingness to engage someone from a different background underscores the expanding reach of the gospel.
Philip’s Later Life
Philip the Evangelist later settles in Caesarea, where he is described as having four daughters who prophesy (Acts 21:8–9). This brief mention suggests a household deeply involved in the life of the early church.
The New Testament does not provide further details about Philip’s later years or death, but his influence is evident through the communities he served.
Distinguishing the Two Philips
Philip the Apostle and Philip the Evangelist are not the same person. The apostle Philip is associated with Jesus’ ministry before the crucifixion, while Philip the Evangelist is active in the missionary expansion of the church.
Recognizing this distinction prevents confusion and clarifies the roles each figure plays within the biblical narrative.
Why Philip Matters in the Bible
Philip matters because he represents faith lived through invitation, explanation, and obedience. Whether bringing someone to Jesus, asking honest questions, or responding to the Spirit’s leading, Philip’s actions advance the gospel in quiet but decisive ways.
Through both Philips, the Bible presents models of discipleship that value openness, service, and readiness to act when called.
Works Consulted
Bruce, F. F. The Book of the Acts. New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1988, pp. 156–172.
Keener, Craig S. Acts: An Exegetical Commentary, Volume 2. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013, pp. 1523–1580.
Moloney, Francis J. The Gospel of John. Sacra Pagina Series. Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1998, pp. 52–89.
The New Revised Standard Version Bible. National Council of Churches, 1989.
FAQ
Are Philip the Apostle and Philip the Evangelist the same person?
No. Philip the Apostle was one of the twelve disciples, while Philip the Evangelist was a later church leader whose ministry is described in Acts.
Which Philip baptized the Ethiopian eunuch?
Philip the Evangelist baptized the Ethiopian eunuch, according to Acts 8.
What is Philip known for in the Gospels?
Philip is known for bringing others to Jesus, asking clarifying questions, and facilitating encounters between Jesus and seekers.
Where did Philip the Evangelist live later in life?
According to Acts 21:8–9, Philip later lived in Caesarea.
