Acts 19:1

While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the interior and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples

Study Bible

While Apollos was at Corinth
This phrase sets the geographical and narrative context for the events that follow. Apollos, a learned Jew from Alexandria, had been ministering in Corinth. His presence there is significant because it highlights the early spread of Christianity and the interconnectedness of the early church. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality, making it a challenging yet crucial mission field. Apollos' work in Corinth underscores the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry, where different leaders worked in various regions to spread the Gospel.

Paul traveled through the interior
The phrase indicates Paul's missionary journey through the inland regions of Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. This journey reflects Paul's relentless dedication to spreading the Gospel, often traveling through difficult and dangerous terrains. The "interior" suggests areas that were less accessible and perhaps less evangelized, demonstrating Paul's commitment to reaching all people, not just those in major urban centers. This journey is part of Paul's third missionary journey, emphasizing his strategic approach to church planting and strengthening existing congregations.

and came to Ephesus
Ephesus was a major city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was a center of commerce and pagan worship, making it a significant location for Paul's ministry. Paul's arrival in Ephesus marks a pivotal moment in his missionary work, as he would spend a considerable amount of time there, establishing a strong Christian community. The city's cultural and religious diversity presented both challenges and opportunities for the spread of Christianity.

There he found some disciples
The term "disciples" here refers to individuals who were followers of Jesus, though their understanding of the Gospel may have been incomplete. The Greek word for "disciples" (μαθητάς, mathētas) implies learners or students, indicating that these individuals were open to further teaching and growth in their faith. Paul's encounter with these disciples highlights the ongoing process of discipleship and the need for continued teaching and clarification of the Gospel message. This meeting sets the stage for the subsequent events in Ephesus, where Paul would further instruct and empower these believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Apollos
A learned Jew from Alexandria, known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Scriptures. He was in Corinth at the time of Paul's arrival in Ephesus.

2. Paul
The Apostle to the Gentiles, who was on his third missionary journey. He traveled through the interior regions to reach Ephesus.

3. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor, known for its temple of Artemis and as a center of commerce and culture. It became a significant location for early Christian ministry.

4. Disciples
A group of believers in Ephesus whom Paul encountered. Their understanding of the faith was incomplete, as they had only received John's baptism.

5. Corinth
A prominent city in Greece where Apollos was ministering. It was known for its diverse population and moral challenges, which Paul addressed in his letters to the Corinthians.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Sound Doctrine
Paul's encounter with the disciples in Ephesus highlights the need for a complete understanding of the Gospel. Believers should seek to grow in their knowledge of Scripture and sound doctrine.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The subsequent verses in Acts 19 reveal that the disciples had not received the Holy Spirit. This underscores the necessity of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer for empowerment and guidance.

The Value of Discipleship and Mentorship
Just as Apollos was mentored by Priscilla and Aquila, believers today should seek and provide mentorship to grow in faith and understanding.

Strategic Ministry Locations
Paul's choice to minister in Ephesus, a key city, demonstrates the importance of strategic planning in ministry to maximize impact.

Unity in Ministry
The cooperation between Paul and Apollos serves as a model for unity and collaboration among different ministries and church leaders.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Paul's approach to ministry in Ephesus that can be applied to our own efforts in sharing the Gospel today?

2. How does the relationship between Paul and Apollos illustrate the importance of unity and collaboration in the church?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our understanding of the Gospel is complete and aligned with sound doctrine?

4. How can we actively seek the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives and ministry efforts?

5. What steps can we take to become effective mentors or to seek mentorship in our spiritual journey, following the example of Priscilla and Aquila with Apollos?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 18:24-28
Provides background on Apollos, his ministry in Ephesus, and his subsequent journey to Corinth, setting the stage for Paul's arrival in Ephesus.

1 Corinthians 3:6
Paul refers to the roles he and Apollos played in the spiritual growth of the Corinthian church, illustrating the collaborative nature of their ministries.

Ephesians 1:1
Paul's letter to the Ephesians, written later, reflects the deep theological teachings he imparted to the church in Ephesus.