August 16, 2021 - Acts 18:24-28

Some speakers are gifted communicators like Charles Spurgeon or a Chuck Swindoll! Spurgeon was called the Prince of Preachers as he could eloquently present a message that had the audience spellbound. Swindoll weaves stories and humor into his message that stimulates many to follow Christ. Paul also was a dynamic speaker in presenting the message of Christ to an audience.

Paul shook the world with his ability to debate and defend the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. His team and the churches he founded recognized the Lord’s powerful presence at work through him. As Paul left Greece to return to Antioch and Jerusalem, the Lord raised another man to carry on the work of ministry in Corinth and Ephesus. Apollos is introduced here and only mentioned again in 1 Corinthians 1 and Titus 3:13. The statement that Luke uses to introduce Apollos to the readers is filled with meaning and emphasizes his abilities as a speaker for the Lord. A Jew from Alexandria suggests that he was knowledgeable of the law as well as educated in the highest arena of learning from the Gentile educational sphere. The word “eloquent” in verse 24 (NKJ), conveys the meaning of one who well-tutored or one who speaks with elegance and grace. He also is fervent in spirit and spoke boldly and taught accurately the truths of the Lord.

With all those sterling qualities, Apollos had a deficiency that had to be addressed. His growth in the Christian doctrine was insufficient and needed to be developed. Priscilla and Aquila were mature believers that saw the powerful potential of this young preacher and took him under their wing to instruct and assist him in his ministry. Through their discipleship he grew and moved on to instruct others about Jesus as the Christ (v.28).

Some of the greatest preachers and teachers of Christianity have a story to tell of a mature believer that assisted them in a truth they previously had not seen in Scripture. D. L Moody came to Christ as a result of a faithful Sunday school teacher. Billy Graham had a boyhood friend that assisted him throughout his life

We do not have to be well educated, Christ can use us to instruct and develop the life of another believer. This counsel is an expression of Christ’s love in us toward others to deepen their walk with the LORD. Is there a friend, family member, or neighbor who comes to mind that you can pray with, encourage or instruct? May God use you in a someone's life this week!

With an expectant hope,

Pastor Miller