The great joy appears to be strongly connected with the miracles that Philip was performing,1 though it would certainly also be a response to the good news which Philip proclaimed.2 See for this word (joy) in connection with the acceptance of the good news also Luke 2:10; Luke 24:52; Acts 13:52 and Acts 15:3; as well as Matthew 2:10.
A mega joy (chara megalѐ
) comes over the city (Acts 8:8). A group is forming which lives together and who confess Christ as Lord. They are enthusiastic and experience an exuberant joy. The Spirit gives redeemed and thankful people! Even Samaritans, who are not true Jews, now believe in Jesus—many inhabitants, both men and women (Acts 8:12).
8 So there was much joy in that city.