◄ Acts 18 ►
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Summary Paul Ministers in Corinth Acts 18 underlines the power of connections, teaching, and divine guidance in the expansion of the Gospel. The mutual support between Paul and the Corinthians, the nurturing of Apollos by Aquila and Priscilla, and God's encouraging vision to Paul, all intertwine to unfold God's work. The chapter inspires us to value our Christian community, continually deepen our understanding of the Gospel, and rely on God's assurance amidst adversity. Verses 1-8: In Corinth with Aquila and Priscilla In Corinth, Paul meets tentmakers Aquila and Priscilla, and stays and works with them. He preaches in the synagogue every Sabbath, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks. When Silas and Timothy arrive from Macedonia, Paul devotes himself to preaching. Many Corinthians, hearing Paul, believe and are baptized. Verses 9-17: Divine Assurance and Gallio's Dismissal God reassures Paul in a vision, encouraging him to continue preaching despite opposition. Paul stays for a year and a half, teaching God's word. Jews make united attacks on Paul and bring him before Gallio, the proconsul, but Gallio dismisses the case, showing Roman indifference to internal disputes within Judaism. Verses 18-22: Journey to Ephesus Paul, taking Aquila and Priscilla, sails to Ephesus, promising to return if it is God's will. He leaves them in Ephesus while he returns to Antioch, strengthening the disciples in the regions he passes. Verses 23-28: The Ministry of Apollos Apollos, an eloquent speaker and well-versed in Scripture, arrives in Ephesus. He knows only John's baptism, so Aquila and Priscilla explain the way of God more accurately. Apollos then travels to Achaia, where he strengthens the believers and refutes the Jews in public debates. In Acts 18, we follow Paul's journey to Corinth and Ephesus, places where he forms profound connections and strengthens the early Christian community. The chapter unfolds the power of fellowship, the joy of divine encouragement, and the significance of theological understanding for effective Gospel proclamation. Teaching Points Paul's Ministry in Corinth Acts 18:1-4 describes Paul's arrival in Corinth, where he meets Aquila and Priscilla. Paul works as a tentmaker alongside them, demonstrating the importance of bi-vocational ministry and the value of hard work in spreading the Gospel. Divine Encouragement In Acts 18:9-10, the Lord speaks to Paul in a vision, saying, Do not be afraid; keep on speaking; do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one will lay a hand on you, because I have many people in this city. This highlights God's reassurance and presence with His servants. Opposition and Perseverance Despite facing opposition from the Jews (Acts 18:5-6), Paul remains steadfast, shifting his focus to the Gentiles. This demonstrates the importance of perseverance and adaptability in ministry. The Role of Aquila and Priscilla Acts 18:24-26 introduces Apollos, a learned man who is taught more accurately about the way of God by Aquila and Priscilla. This underscores the significance of mentorship and discipleship within the church. God's Sovereignty in Ministry Throughout Acts 18, we see God's hand guiding and protecting Paul, ensuring the spread of the Gospel. This reminds us of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in our own ministry efforts. Practical Applications Embrace Bi-vocational Ministry Like Paul, consider how your profession can be a platform for ministry and sharing the Gospel. Seek Divine Encouragement In times of fear or doubt, remember that God is with you, just as He was with Paul. Seek His guidance and reassurance through prayer and Scripture. Persevere Through Opposition When facing challenges in your faith journey, remain steadfast and adaptable, trusting that God will use your efforts for His glory. Mentor and Disciple Others Follow the example of Aquila and Priscilla by investing in the spiritual growth of others, helping them understand the Gospel more fully. Trust in God's Sovereignty Recognize that God is in control of all circumstances and will guide your steps as you seek to serve Him. People 1. Paul A central figure in the New Testament, Paul is a missionary and apostle who travels to Corinth in this chapter. He is known for his extensive missionary journeys and his role in spreading Christianity among the Gentiles. In Acts 18, Paul is described as staying with Aquila and Priscilla and working as a tentmaker. 2. Aquila A Jew from Pontus who, along with his wife Priscilla, had recently come from Italy because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Aquila is a tentmaker by trade and becomes a close associate of Paul. The Greek root of his name, "Ἀκύλας" (Akyla), suggests an eagle, which may symbolize strength or vision. 3. Priscilla The wife of Aquila, she is also a tentmaker and works alongside her husband and Paul. Priscilla is noted for her role in instructing Apollos more accurately in the way of God. Her name in Greek, "Πρίσκιλλα" (Priskilla), is a diminutive form of "Prisca," meaning ancient or venerable. 4. Silas Mentioned as one of Paul's companions who, along with Timothy, joins Paul in Corinth. Silas is known for his earlier missionary work with Paul and his role in the early church. His name in Greek, "Σίλας" (Silas), is a shortened form of "Silvanus," meaning "wood" or "forest." 5. Timothy Another of Paul's companions who joins him in Corinth. Timothy is a young disciple and a trusted co-worker of Paul, often accompanying him on his journeys. His name in Greek, "Τιμόθεος" (Timotheos), means "honoring God." 6. Titius Justus A God-fearing Gentile whose house is next to the synagogue in Corinth. Paul stays with him after leaving the synagogue. His name in Greek, "Τίτιος Ἰοῦστος" (Titios Ioustos), reflects a Roman heritage, with "Justus" meaning "just" or "righteous." 7. Crispus The ruler of the synagogue in Corinth who, along with his entire household, believes in the Lord. His conversion is significant in the narrative of Acts. His name in Greek, "Κρίσπος" (Krispos), means "curly" or "curled," possibly referring to his hair. 8. Gallio The proconsul of Achaia who dismisses the charges brought against Paul by the Jews, seeing it as a matter of Jewish law rather than a criminal offense. His name in Greek, "Γαλλίων" (Gallion), is of Latin origin, possibly meaning "one who lives in Gaul." 9. Sosthenes The synagogue leader who is beaten by the crowd after Gallio dismisses the case against Paul. His name in Greek, "Σωσθένης" (Sosthenes), means "safe strength" or "saving strength." 10. Apollos A learned Jew from Alexandria who is eloquent and knowledgeable in the Scriptures. He is instructed more accurately in the way of God by Priscilla and Aquila. His name in Greek, "Ἀπολλώς" (Apollos), is derived from the Greek god Apollo, symbolizing beauty and eloquence. Places 1. Corinth Acts 18:1: "After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth." Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its commerce and diverse population. It was a significant location for Paul's missionary work, where he established a church and wrote letters to the Corinthians. 2. Athens Acts 18:1: "After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth." Although mentioned as the place Paul left, Athens was a center of philosophy and learning. Paul had previously engaged with philosophers there, as recorded in Acts 17. 3. Italy Acts 18:2: "There he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome." Italy is mentioned as the region from which Aquila and Priscilla had come. This highlights the Roman expulsion of Jews, which had significant implications for the spread of Christianity. 4. Pontus Acts 18:2: "There he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus..." Pontus was a region in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Aquila's origin from Pontus indicates the widespread dispersion of Jews and early Christians. 5. Syria Acts 18:18: "Paul stayed on for quite some time, then left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila." Syria was a Roman province and a key area for early Christian activity. Antioch in Syria was a major center for the early church. 6. Cenchrea Acts 18:18: "Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken." Cenchrea was the eastern port of Corinth, indicating Paul's departure point for his journey to Syria. The mention of a vow suggests a Jewish practice, possibly a Nazirite vow. 7. Ephesus Acts 18:19: "When they reached Ephesus, Paul parted ways with Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue there and reasoned with the Jews." Ephesus was a major city in Asia Minor, known for its temple to Artemis. It became an important center for Paul's ministry and the early church. 8. Caesarea Acts 18:22: "When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church at Jerusalem, and then went down to Antioch." Caesarea was a significant port city in Judea, serving as a gateway for travel to and from Jerusalem. 9. Jerusalem Acts 18:22: "When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church at Jerusalem, and then went down to Antioch." Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and the early Christian church. Paul's visit underscores the connection between his mission and the Jerusalem church. 10. Antioch Acts 18:22: "When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church at Jerusalem, and then went down to Antioch." Antioch was a major center for early Christianity and the starting point for Paul's missionary journeys. It was known for its diverse and vibrant Christian community. Events 1. Paul Meets Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth Paul arrives in Corinth and meets a Jewish couple, Aquila and Priscilla, who had recently come from Italy because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul stays and works with them because they are tentmakers by trade, as he is (Acts 18:1-3). 2. Paul Preaches in the Synagogue Every Sabbath, Paul goes to the synagogue to reason with both Jews and Greeks, trying to persuade them about Jesus being the Messiah (Acts 18:4). 3. Silas and Timothy Join Paul Silas and Timothy arrive from Macedonia, and Paul becomes more devoted to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ (Acts 18:5). 4. Paul Faces Opposition and Turns to the Gentiles When the Jews oppose and revile him, Paul shakes out his garments and declares that he will go to the Gentiles, saying, "Your blood be on your own heads; I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles" (Acts 18:6). 5. Paul Stays with Titius Justus Paul leaves the synagogue and goes to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God, whose house is next door to the synagogue (Acts 18:7). 6. Crispus and Many Corinthians Believe Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his entire household believe in the Lord, and many Corinthians who hear Paul also believe and are baptized (Acts 18:8). 7. The Lord Encourages Paul in a Vision The Lord speaks to Paul in a vision, telling him not to be afraid but to keep on speaking, for He is with him, and no one will attack or harm him because He has many people in the city (Acts 18:9-10). 8. Paul Stays in Corinth for a Year and a Half Paul remains in Corinth for a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them (Acts 18:11). 9. Paul is Brought Before Gallio The Jews make a united attack on Paul and bring him before Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, accusing him of persuading people to worship God contrary to the law (Acts 18:12-13). 10. Gallio Dismisses the Case Gallio refuses to judge the matter, saying it is a question of words and names and their own law, and drives them from the tribunal (Acts 18:14-16). 11. Sosthenes is Beaten The crowd seizes Sosthenes, the synagogue leader, and beats him in front of the tribunal, but Gallio shows no concern (Acts 18:17). 12. Paul Returns to Antioch After staying in Corinth for some time, Paul sets sail for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before sailing, he has his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken (Acts 18:18). 13. Paul Visits Ephesus Paul arrives in Ephesus, where he leaves Priscilla and Aquila. He enters the synagogue and reasons with the Jews, but when they ask him to stay longer, he declines, promising to return if God wills (Acts 18:19-21). 14. Paul Completes His Journey Paul sails from Ephesus to Caesarea, goes up to greet the church, and then goes down to Antioch, completing his second missionary journey (Acts 18:22). 15. Apollos Begins to Preach in Ephesus A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, comes to Ephesus. He is an eloquent speaker and well-versed in the Scriptures. He speaks and teaches accurately about Jesus, though he knows only the baptism of John (Acts 18:24-25). 16. Priscilla and Aquila Teach Apollos Priscilla and Aquila hear Apollos and take him aside to explain the way of God more accurately (Acts 18:26). 17. Apollos Ministers in Achaia Apollos wishes to go to Achaia, and the brothers encourage him and write to the disciples there to welcome him. He greatly helps those who have believed through grace, powerfully refuting the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ (Acts 18:27-28). Connections to Additional Scriptures 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Paul's reliance on God's strength in weakness, paralleling his perseverance in Acts 18. Matthew 28:19-20 The Great Commission, emphasizing the call to make disciples, as seen in Paul's ministry. Philippians 4:13 Encouragement to rely on Christ's strength, similar to the divine encouragement Paul received. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 The role of different individuals in God's work, akin to the partnership of Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla. Prayer Points Pray for courage and boldness to share the Gospel, even in the face of opposition. Ask for God's guidance and reassurance in your ministry efforts, trusting in His presence and protection. Seek opportunities to mentor and disciple others, helping them grow in their faith. Pray for perseverance and adaptability in your faith journey, trusting in God's sovereignty and plan. Thank God for the community of believers who support and encourage one another in the work of the Gospel. Bible Study Questions 1. What can we learn from Paul's bi-vocational approach to his ministry in Corinth? 2. How does God's assurance in the vision comfort and encourage Paul? How does God comfort and encourage us in our journeys? 3. What lessons can we learn from Gallio's handling of the accusations against Paul? 4. How does the relationship between Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla demonstrate the importance of Christian fellowship? 5. How does Apollos' willingness to learn and improve illustrate the importance of humility in Christian service? 6. How does Paul model resilience in the face of opposition during his ministries in Corinth and Ephesus? 7. How do Aquila and Priscilla's actions toward Apollos model the way we should disciple others? 8. How do we see the role of both Paul and Apollos in planting and watering the Gospel (as Paul later describes in 1 Corinthians 3:6)? 9. What does the united attack of the Jews on Paul teach us about the challenges of proclaiming the Gospel? 10. How can we discern God's will in our lives, as Paul does when he promises to return to Ephesus if God wills? 11. What does this chapter teach us about the need for both knowledge and spirit-filled fervor in our faith? 12. How can we use our secular skills and professions, like Paul's tentmaking, for God's work? 13. How does Acts 18 challenge our approach to resolving conflicts within the church community? 14. What do the various methods of ministry used by Paul and Apollos teach us about the diversity of gifts in the body of Christ? 15. How does Acts 18 demonstrate the importance of both individual roles and community effort in the spread of the Gospel? 16. How can we ensure that our understanding of the Gospel is complete and accurate, as was needed by Apollos? 17. In what ways can we provide and receive correction within the Christian community, as shown by Aquila, Priscilla, and Apollos? 18. How does this chapter encourage us to be active participants in nurturing our Christian communities? 19. How can we remain steadfast in our mission even when facing indifference or dismissal, as Paul did with Gallio? 20. How does the relationship between teaching and faith development manifest in this chapter, and how does it apply to our own spiritual growth? Topics 1. Paul in Corinth Paul arrives in Corinth and meets Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers. He stays and works with them, reasoning in the synagogue every Sabbath, trying to persuade both Jews and Greeks (Acts 18:1-4). The Greek word for "reasoning" (διαλέγομαι, dialegomai) implies a dialogue or discussion, highlighting Paul's method of engaging with his audience. 2. Opposition and Turning to the Gentiles When the Jews oppose and revile him, Paul declares that he will turn to the Gentiles (Acts 18:5-6). The phrase "shook out his garments" is a symbolic act of disassociation, rooted in Jewish customs. 3. Conversion of Crispus and Many Corinthians Crispus, the synagogue leader, and his household believe in the Lord, along with many Corinthians who hear and are baptized (Acts 18:7-8). The Greek term for "believe" (πιστεύω, pisteuō) indicates a deep trust and faith in Jesus Christ. 4. The Lord's Encouragement to Paul The Lord speaks to Paul in a vision, encouraging him not to be afraid but to keep speaking, promising His presence and protection (Acts 18:9-10). This divine assurance underscores the importance of divine guidance and support in ministry. 5. Paul's Ministry in Corinth Paul stays in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching the word of God among them (Acts 18:11). The Greek word for "teaching" (διδάσκω, didaskō) emphasizes the instructional aspect of Paul's ministry. 6. Gallio's Dismissal of the Jews' Accusation The Jews bring Paul before Gallio, the proconsul, accusing him of persuading people to worship God contrary to the law. Gallio dismisses the case, seeing it as a matter of Jewish law rather than a civil issue (Acts 18:12-17). This incident highlights the Roman authorities' general indifference to internal Jewish religious disputes. 7. Paul's Return to Antioch After staying in Corinth, Paul sets sail for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. He makes a vow and cuts his hair in Cenchreae, then travels through Ephesus, Caesarea, and finally returns to Antioch (Acts 18:18-22). The vow and haircut suggest a Nazirite vow, reflecting Paul's Jewish heritage and customs. 8. Apollos in Ephesus Apollos, an eloquent speaker and knowledgeable in the Scriptures, arrives in Ephesus. Priscilla and Aquila explain the way of God more accurately to him (Acts 18:24-26). The Greek term for "accurately" (ἀκριβῶς, akribōs) indicates a precise and thorough understanding. 9. Apollos' Ministry in Achaia Apollos travels to Achaia, where he greatly helps those who have believed through grace, powerfully refuting the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ (Acts 18:27-28). The Greek word for "refuting" (διακατελέγχομαι, diakatelegchomai) suggests a strong, convincing argument. Themes 1. Divine Guidance and Providence Acts 18 highlights God's guidance and provision for Paul and his companions. In verse 9, the Lord speaks to Paul in a vision, saying, "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent." This divine encouragement underscores the theme of God's providence and protection over His servants as they carry out His mission. 2. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit's influence is evident as Paul is led to Corinth and later to Ephesus. The Spirit's guidance is implicit in Paul's missionary journey, reflecting the Greek term "pneuma" (πνεῦμα), which signifies the Spirit's active role in directing and empowering believers. 3. Perseverance in Ministry Despite opposition, Paul continues his ministry with perseverance. Verse 6 states, "But when they opposed and insulted him, he shook out his garments and told them, 'Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.'" This demonstrates Paul's steadfastness and commitment to his calling, even in the face of rejection. 4. Community and Fellowship The chapter emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship among believers. Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers, and they work together (verse 3). This partnership highlights the Greek concept of "koinonia" (κοινωνία), meaning fellowship and mutual support within the Christian community. 5. Cultural Engagement and Adaptation Paul engages with both Jews and Gentiles, adapting his approach to effectively communicate the Gospel. In verse 4, "Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks." This reflects the theme of cultural engagement, where Paul tailors his message to reach diverse audiences. 6. Opposition and Conflict Acts 18 records instances of opposition and conflict, particularly from the Jewish community. In verse 12, the Jews bring Paul before the proconsul Gallio, accusing him of persuading people to worship God contrary to the law. This theme highlights the challenges faced by early Christians in spreading the Gospel. 7. Divine Encouragement and Assurance God's reassurance to Paul in verse 10, "For I am with you, and no one will lay a hand on you, because I have many people in this city," provides divine encouragement. This assurance emphasizes God's presence and the support of a broader community of believers. 8. The Spread of the Gospel The chapter illustrates the spread of the Gospel beyond Jewish communities to Gentile regions. Paul's decision to focus on the Gentiles (verse 6) marks a significant shift in the early Christian mission, aligning with the Greek term "euangelion" (εὐαγγέλιον), meaning good news or Gospel. 9. Mentorship and Discipleship The relationship between Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla demonstrates the theme of mentorship and discipleship. In verse 26, they take Apollos aside and explain the way of God more accurately, highlighting the importance of teaching and nurturing new believers in their faith journey. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions