28 May 2022
And when he (Apollos) wished to cross over to Achaia, the believers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. On his arrival he greatly helped those who through grace had become believers, for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the scriptures that the Messiah is Jesus.
From Acts 18:23-28, NRSV
In today’s reading we are introduced to a Jew from Alexandria named Apollos. Apollos, we are told, was an eloquent man with a sound knowledge of the scriptures and a great earnestness. However, although he was a respected teacher, his knowledge and understanding of Baptism was limited to what he knew of the Baptism offered by John. Two people who heard Apollos speak took him under their wing and explained the fuller meaning of Baptism to him. These two people were Priscilla and Aquila; a Christian couple who had spent some time with Paul and who had therefore reached the deeper understanding of Baptism as entering into the life and death of Jesus. Although they may not have possessed the same intellect and eloquence as Apollos, they were instrumental in helping him to become even more effective in his ministry. With their recommendation and support from the church at Ephesus, Apollos was able to travel to the Roman province of Achaia and to serve effectively even in the face of some opposition.
- Why was it important for Apollos to learn from Aquila and Priscilla?
- How can we ensure that the wisdom and knowledge of individual members of our church helps to enrich the understanding of all?
Be open to the wisdom of others – it may come from unexpected sources!
