Paul is received in Ephesus and is asked to spend more time there but, he declines at this time. “But as he left, he promised, ‘I will come back if it is God’s will.’ Then he set sail from Ephesus” (Acts 18:19).
“Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. 27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ” (Acts 18:24-28).
There are now a number of Christians in Ephesus. People like Priscilla and Aquila who understood the gospel clearly and nurtured the faith and understanding of others like Apollos, whose understanding was growing. They not only explained the “way of God more” clearly to him, they also encouraged him and sent a letter of commendation with him as he traveled to Achaia. They were sensitive to God working in him and came alongside to help him in his faith journey.
How sensitive are you to God’s working in others’ lives? How do you come alongside younger Christian? When was the last time you explained the Word of God to someone with a lesser understanding? How are you investing in others and investing in God’s Kingdom? Ask God to make you more sensitive to the individuals that He is actively at work in their lives. Then take the Word of God which transforms hearts and minds and wills and invest it into their lives. How will you become an Aquila and Priscilla in your community?
