Scripturae | Scriptures

He was mighty in the Scriptures – Acts 18:24

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In Acts 18 we read about Apollos, an outstanding figure in the New Testament. He is also mentioned in the First Epistle to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:12, 3:4-6, 4:6). Apollos was a highly educated Jew from Alexandria, Egypt. Alexandria was a major center of learning and culture in the ancient world. It is most likely that Apollos received a very thorough education there.

Apollos arrived in Ephesus, where he met Priscilla and Aquila. They were a Jewish Christian couple originally from Italy and they were tentmakers like the apostle Paul. They had been disciples and co-workers of the apostle Paul, as well as friends of Paul. They took Apollos under their wing and provided him with further instruction regarding the Messiah. Priscilla and Aquila had a thorough grasp of the Christian doctrine, most likely they obtained it from the apostle Paul. They communicated it in a respectful way to Apollos.

What stands out for me is that although Apollos was already mighty in the Scriptures, he didn’t object to be instructed by Priscilla and Aquila. For me this is a mature person. Ready to learn from others and to use that new knowledge and wisdom further on in life. Also the importance to always share knowledge in a very respectful and loving way, just like Priscilla and Aquila did.

Apollos, now ready with the complete message, continued on his evangelist ministry and was an effective apologist for the gospel (Acts 18:28). Let us follow the example of Apollos!

Reflection on Acts 18: 18-28 by Hanne

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