The Convert: Lydia

Despite her outsider status (she was the only Philippian convert named in Acts), and how women are typically

portrayed in scripture, Lydia is a woman of power, influence, and dignity - an established businesswoman and

the leader of her household. After being stirred by Paul’s message, Lydia and her household are baptized. Her first act as a new disciple is hospitality. She welcomes the apostles into her home and it becomes a meeting place for the apostles and the growing Christian community in Philippi. Lydia used her wealth to establish the Phillipian church, she risked her reputation as a businesswoman to house foreigners released from prison, she sanctified her conversion with acts of radical hospitality.