Why does Acts 8:40 point to the 144,000 and the Tribulation?
Philip’s miraculous transfer from the Gaza area to Azotus is a prophetic hint of the 144,000’s Tribulation ministry. It pictures how they will reach every tongue and tribe worldwide in less than seven years without earthly transportation, airline tickets, or dependence on normal travel, using the same glorious transport Philip experienced.
Les explains that after the Ethiopian eunuch believed and went on his way rejoicing, verse 40 gives a hint of what will happen when the 144,000 begin their ministry during the Tribulation. Philip was suddenly found at Azotus—today called Ashdod—having been transported not by walking or camel riding but miraculously. Gaza is at the southwest curve of the Mediterranean, and Azotus lay between Gaza and Jerusalem. Les suggests the 144,000 will not need airline tickets or earthly transportation, yet they will get into every tongue and tribe around the globe in less than seven years. They will do it by the same glorious means of transportation Philip experienced.
But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.