Paul remained in Corinth for quite some time before saying goodbye to the brothers. He had his head shaved in Cenchrea to keep a vow he had made, and then he sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Paul stayed on in CorinthThe Apostle Paul, a pivotal figure in the early Christian church, remained in Corinth, a major city in ancient Greece known for its commercial prosperity and moral challenges. The Greek word for "stayed" (ἐπέμεινεν) suggests a deliberate and extended period of ministry. This indicates Paul's commitment to establishing a strong Christian community amidst a diverse and often challenging cultural environment. His stay in Corinth underscores the importance of perseverance in ministry and the need to nurture new believers in their faith. for quite some time
The phrase indicates an unspecified but significant duration, emphasizing Paul's dedication to the Corinthian church. Historically, Corinth was a strategic location for spreading the Gospel due to its position as a trade hub. Paul's extended stay allowed him to address the spiritual and moral issues within the church, as evidenced by his later letters to the Corinthians. This highlights the necessity of investing time in discipleship and community building. before saying goodbye to the brothers
The term "brothers" (ἀδελφοῖς) reflects the familial bond among believers, a common theme in Paul's writings. This farewell was not merely a departure but a heartfelt separation from a community he had deeply invested in. The use of "brothers" signifies the unity and love that should characterize Christian relationships, reminding us of the importance of fellowship and mutual support within the church. He had his hair cut off in Cenchrea
Cenchrea was a port city near Corinth, serving as a gateway for Paul's travels. The act of cutting his hair is linked to a vow, likely a Nazirite vow, which involved abstaining from certain activities and was a sign of dedication to God (Numbers 6:1-21). The Greek word for "cut off" (κειράμενος) indicates a ritualistic act, suggesting Paul's deep personal devotion and commitment to fulfilling his promises to God. This act serves as a reminder of the importance of personal vows and commitments in our spiritual journey. because of a vow he had taken
The vow signifies a solemn promise made to God, reflecting Paul's Jewish heritage and his continued observance of certain Jewish customs. Vows were serious commitments, often made in gratitude or in seeking divine favor. This highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and the personal nature of faith. Paul's vow demonstrates the integration of cultural and religious practices in expressing one's devotion to God, encouraging believers to honor their commitments and live out their faith authentically. Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who is central to the account. He is known for his missionary journeys and spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. 2. CorinthA significant city in ancient Greece where Paul spent considerable time preaching and establishing the church. 3. CenchreaA port city near Corinth where Paul had his hair cut off due to a vow, indicating a Jewish practice or personal commitment. 4. Priscilla and AquilaA married couple who were fellow tentmakers and companions of Paul. They played a crucial role in the early church. 5. SyriaThe region Paul was heading to, continuing his missionary journey. Teaching Points Commitment to God's WorkPaul's vow and his continued missionary work demonstrate a deep commitment to God's calling. Believers are encouraged to consider their own commitments to God's work. Cultural Sensitivity in MinistryPaul's actions show sensitivity to Jewish customs, which can be a lesson in respecting cultural practices while sharing the Gospel. The Role of CommunityPriscilla and Aquila's partnership with Paul underscores the importance of community and collaboration in ministry. Faithfulness in TransitionEven as Paul transitions from one place to another, he remains faithful to his mission. Believers can learn to remain steadfast in their faith during life's transitions. Personal Sacrifice for Spiritual GrowthThe act of taking a vow and cutting his hair signifies personal sacrifice, which can be a model for believers in pursuing spiritual growth. Bible Study Questions 1. What might have motivated Paul to take a vow, and how can we apply the concept of vows or commitments in our spiritual lives today? 2. How does Paul's interaction with Priscilla and Aquila demonstrate the importance of community in the Christian faith? 3. In what ways can we be culturally sensitive when sharing the Gospel, as Paul was with his Jewish customs? 4. How can we remain faithful to our mission and calling during times of transition, as Paul did when moving from Corinth to Syria? 5. Reflect on a time when you made a personal sacrifice for your spiritual growth. How did it impact your faith journey, and what can you learn from Paul's example? Connections to Other Scriptures Numbers 6:1-21This passage describes the Nazirite vow, which may relate to the vow Paul took, involving abstaining from certain things and not cutting one's hair. 1 Corinthians 9:20Paul speaks about becoming all things to all people, which may explain his adherence to Jewish customs like vows to connect with Jewish believers. Romans 16:3-4Paul mentions Priscilla and Aquila, highlighting their importance and dedication to the ministry. People Apollos, Aquila, Claudius, Corinthians, Crispus, Gallio, John, Justus, Paul, Priscilla, Silas, Sosthenes, Timotheus, Timothy, TitusPlaces Achaia, Alexandria, Athens, Caesarea, Cenchreae, Corinth, Ephesus, Galatia, Italy, Macedonia, Phrygia, Pontus, Rome, Syria, Syrian AntiochTopics Accompanied, Aquila, Aq'uila, Aquilas, Bound, Brethren, Brothers, Cenchera, Cenchrea, Cenchreae, Cen'chre-ae, Considerable, Corinth, Cut, Hair, Keeping, Leave, Longer, Oath, Paul, Priscilla, Remaining, Sail, Sailed, Sailing, Shaved, Ship, Shorn, Stayed, Syria, Tarried, Thence, Vow, Waiting, YetDictionary of Bible Themes Acts 18:18 5128 baldness
5155 hair
5517 seafaring
5741 vows Acts 18:18-23 5108 Paul, life of Library 'Constrained by the Word'
'And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified.'--ACTS xviii. 5. The Revised Version, in concurrence with most recent authorities, reads, instead of 'pressed in the spirit,' 'constrained by the word.' One of these alterations depends on a diversity of reading, the other on a difference of translation. The one introduces a significant difference of meaning; the other is rather a change of expression. The word rendered here 'pressed,' and by the …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The ActsPaul at Corinth
'After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; 2. And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. 3. And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tent-makers. 4. And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. 5. And when Silas and Timotheus …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts Gallio
'And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong: or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you: 15. But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.'--ACTS xviii. 14, 15. There is something very touching in the immortality of fame which comes to the men who for a moment pass across the Gospel story, like shooting stars kindled for an instant as they …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts The Civil Trial
In the chapter before last we saw the Sanhedrim pass a death sentence on Jesus. Gladly would they have carried it out in the Jewish fashion--by stoning. But, as was then explained, it was not in their power: their Roman masters, while conceding to the native courts the power of trying and punishing minor offences, reserved to themselves the prerogative of life and death; and a case in which a capital sentence had been passed in a Jewish court had to go before the representative of Rome in the country, …
James Stalker—The Trial and Death of Jesus Christ The Old Faiths and the New
SECOND GROUP OF EPISTLES GALATIANS. FIRST AND SECOND CORINTHIANS. ROMANS. PROBLEMS OF EARLY CHRISTIANITY The new faith in Christ made large claims for itself. It marked an advance upon Judaism and maintained that in Christ was fulfilled all the promises made by the prophets of the coming of the Jewish Messiah. It radically antagonized the heathen religions. It had a double task to win men out of Judaism and heathenism. Only by a careful study of these great doctrinal Epistles, and the …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul Third Missionary Journey
Scripture, Acts 18:23-21:17 [Illustration: Outline map illustrating the third missionary journey of Paul and the voyage to Italy.] …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul There Also is Said at what Work the Apostle Wrought. ...
22. There also is said at what work the Apostle wrought. "After these things," it says, "he departed from Athens and came to Corinth; and having found a certain Jew, by name Aquila, of Pontus by birth, lately come from Italy, and Priscilla his wife, because that Claudius had ordered all Jews to depart from Rome, he came unto them, and because he was of the same craft he abode with them, doing work: for they were tent-makers." [2549] This if they shall essay to interpret allegorically, they show what …
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks. Jewish Homes
It may be safely asserted, that the grand distinction, which divided all mankind into Jews and Gentiles, was not only religious, but also social. However near the cities of the heathen to those of Israel, however frequent and close the intercourse between the two parties, no one could have entered a Jewish town or village without feeling, so to speak, in quite another world. The aspect of the streets, the building and arrangement of the houses, the municipal and religious rule, the manners and customs …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life Flight into Egypt and Slaughter of the Bethlehem Children.
(Bethlehem and Road Thence to Egypt, b.c. 4.) ^A Matt. II. 13-18. ^a 13 Now when they were departed [The text favors the idea that the arrival and departure of the magi and the departure of Joseph for Egypt, all occurred in one night. If so, the people of Bethlehem knew nothing of these matters], behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise [this command calls for immediate departure] and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt [This land was ever the …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Kingdom Conquering the World
Acts Page Paul's Epistles Page Outline for Study of Epistles Page I Thessalonians Page I Corinthians Page Romans Page Philippians Page II Timothy Page The General Epistles Page Questions on the Book of James Page Studies in I and II Peter Page I John Page THE ACTS I. Author: 1. Name. 2. Number of …
Frank Nelson Palmer—A Bird's-Eye View of the Bible Sources and Literature on St. Paul and his Work.
I. Sources. 1. The authentic sources: The Epistles of Paul, and the Acts of the Apostles 9:1-30 and 13 to 28. Of the Epistles of Paul the four most important Galatians, Romans, two Corinthians--are universally acknowledged as genuine even by the most exacting critics; the Philippians, Philemon, Colossians, and Ephesians are admitted by nearly all critics; the Pastoral Epistles, especially First Timothy, and Titus, are more or less disputed, but even they bear the stamp of Paul's genius. On the coincidences …
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I Jewish views on Trade, Tradesmen, and Trades' Guilds
We read in the Mishnah (Kidd. iv. 14) as follows: "Rabbi Meir said: Let a man always teach his son a cleanly and a light trade; and let him pray to Him whose are wealth and riches; for there is no trade which has not both poverty and riches, and neither does poverty come from the trade nor yet riches, but everything according to one's deserving (merit). Rabbi Simeon, the son of Eleazer, said: Hast thou all thy life long seen a beast or a bird which has a trade? Still they are nourished, and that …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life King Herod's Enrollment
THE first enrollment in Syria was made in the year 8-7 BC., but a consideration of the situation in Syria and Palestine about that time will show that the enrollment in Herod's kingdom was probably delayed for some time later. Herod occupied a delicate and difficult position on the throne of Judea. On the one hand he had to comply with what was required of him by the Imperial policy; he was governing for the Romans a part of the empire, and he was bound to spread western customs and language and …
Sir William Mitchell Ramsay—Was Christ Born in Bethlehem? Luke's Attitude Towards the Roman World
The reign of Augustus, as is well known, is enveloped in the deepest obscurity. While we are unusually well informed about the immediately preceding period of Roman history, and for part of the reign of his successor, Tiberius, we possess the elaborate and accurate, though in some respects strongly prejudiced account of Tacitus, the facts of Augustus's reign have to be pieced together from scanty, incomplete and disjointed authorities. Moreover, obscure events in a remote corner of the Roman world …
Sir William Mitchell Ramsay—Was Christ Born in Bethlehem? Paul's Journeys Acts 13:1-38:31
On this third journey he was already planning to go to Rome (Acts 19:21) and wrote an epistle to the Romans announcing his coming (Rom. 1:7, 15). +The Chief City+, in which Paul spent most of his time (Acts 19:1, 8, 10), between two and three years upon this journey, was Ephesus in Asia Minor. This city situated midway between the extreme points of his former missionary journeys was a place where Ephesus has been thus described: "It had been one of the early Greek colonies, later the capital …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul The Supremacy of Christ
THIRD GROUP OF EPISTLES COLOSSIANS. PHILEMON. EPHESIANS. PHILIPPIANS. THE QUESTION AT ISSUE +The Supremacy of Christ.+--These Epistles mark a new stage in the writings of Paul. The great question discussed in the second group of Epistles was in regard to the terms of salvation. The question now at issue (in Colossians, Ephesians, Philippian+The Reason for the Raising of this Question+ was the development of certain false religious beliefs among which were, "asceticism, the worship of angels, …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul The Future of Christ's Kingdom First Group of Epistles the First and Second Epistles to the Thessalonians Introduction to the Epistles of Paul +Epistolary Writings. + --The
STUDY VII THE FUTURE OF CHRIST'S KINGDOM FIRST GROUP OF EPISTLES THE FIRST AND SECOND EPISTLES TO THE THESSALONIANS INTRODUCTION TO THE EPISTLES OF PAUL +Epistolary Writings.+--The New Testament is composed of twenty-seven books, twenty-one of which are Epistles. Of this latter number thirteen are ascribed to Paul. It is thus seen how largely the New Testament is made up of Epistles and how many of these are attributed to the Great Apostle. In the letters of men of great prominence and power of any …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul The Candour of the Writers of the New Testament.
I make this candour to consist in their putting down many passages, and noticing many circumstances, which no writer whatever was likely to have forged; and which no writer would have chosen to appear in his book who had been careful to present the story in the most unexceptionable form, or who had thought himself at liberty to carve and mould the particulars of that story according to his choice, or according to his judgment of the effect. A strong and well-known example of the fairness of the evangelists …
William Paley—Evidences of Christianity Moreover, if Discourse must be Bestowed Upon Any...
21. Moreover, if discourse must be bestowed upon any, and this so take up the speaker that he have not time to work with his hands, are all in the monastery able to hold discourse unto brethren which come unto them from another kind of life, whether it be to expound the divine lessons, or concerning any questions which may be put, to reason in an wholesome manner? Then since not all have the ability, why upon this pretext do all want to have nothing else to do? Although even if all were able, they …
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks. Here is the Sum of My Examination Before Justice Keelin, Justice Chester, Justice Blundale, Justice Beecher, Justice Snagg, Etc.
After I had lain in prison above seven weeks, the quarter-sessions were to be kept in Bedford, for the county thereof, unto which I was to be brought; and when my jailor had set me before those justices, there was a bill of indictment preferred against me. The extent thereof was as followeth: That John Bunyan, of the town of Bedford, labourer, being a person of such and such conditions, he hath (since such a time) devilishly and perniciously abstained from coming to church to hear Divine service, …
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners The Epistle to the Hebrews.
I. Commentaries on Hebrews by Chrysostom (d. 407, hermeneia, in 34 Homilies publ. after his death by an Antioch. presbyter, Constantinus); Theodoret (d. 457); Oecumenius (10th cent.); Theophylact (11th cent.); Thomas Aquinas (d. 1274); Erasmus (d. 1536, Annotationes in N. T., with his Greek Test., 1516 and often, and Paraphrasis in N. T., 1522 and often); Card. Cajetanus (Epistolae Pauli, etc., 1531); Calvin (d. 1564, Com. in omnes P. Ep. atque etiam in Ep. ad Hebraeos, 1539 and often, also Halle, …
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I Links Acts 18:18 NIVActs 18:18 NLTActs 18:18 ESVActs 18:18 NASBActs 18:18 KJV
Acts 18:18 Commentaries
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