What apostle went to Ethiopia? This question has intrigued historians, theologians, and Bible scholars for centuries. The apostle who is believed to have traveled to Ethiopia is none other than Saint Philip. His journey to this African nation is chronicled in the New Testament, making him a significant figure in the early spread of Christianity.
The story of Saint Philip’s visit to Ethiopia is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 8:26-40. According to the text, Philip was a deacon in the early church, and he was sent by the apostles to Samaria to spread the word of God. While in Samaria, Philip encountered an Ethiopian eunuch, a high-ranking official in the court of the Candace, the queen of Ethiopia. The eunuch was returning from Jerusalem after worshiping at the temple and was reading from the Book of Isaiah.
As the eunuch read, the Spirit told Philip to join him on his chariot. Philip asked the eunuch if he understood what he was reading, and the eunuch replied that he did not. Philip then explained the passage from Isaiah, which was about the suffering servant, and how it pointed to the Messiah. The eunuch asked Philip if he could be baptized, and Philip baptized him immediately.
This event marked the beginning of Christianity in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian eunuch, now a follower of Jesus, returned to his country and shared the good news with others. Over time, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world, was established, with roots tracing back to Saint Philip’s ministry.
Although the exact details of Saint Philip’s journey to Ethiopia remain uncertain, his legacy has had a profound impact on the region. The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church continues to play a vital role in the lives of millions of Ethiopian Christians, preserving the faith and traditions that began with the apostle’s visit.
In conclusion, the apostle who went to Ethiopia was Saint Philip, a key figure in the early spread of Christianity. His encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch and the subsequent baptism marked the beginning of a rich Christian heritage in Ethiopia, which endures to this day. The story of Saint Philip’s journey serves as a testament to the power of the Gospel and the far-reaching impact of the apostles’ missions.
