Acts 18

Christian relationships are great, but even better are ones that become ministry relationships that further the work of God and the proclamation of the gospel. And even more camaraderie is established when there is similarity in occupation or experience. So what a gift Aquila and Priscilla were to Paul and vice versa. And two further significant things happen in Corinth: Paul officially declares that his focus will be on the gentiles because of the Jews rejection of the truth, and Paul stays there a long time. There have not been time markers in Paul’s other ministry stops, so the presumption is that he stayed for periods of weeks or a few months. But guided by the Lord here, Paul stays a far greater amount of time. And it is also important that a public official rules favorably for the apostle and Jewish disruption is hindered. God can work through various means to advance the gospel and thwart the work of opposition. It is fitting that we would pray to that end as well.

It is also interesting to see that Paul declined further ministry when asked. It shows “no” is an appropriate answer to things but notice Paul is seeking God’s direction and says he will return if it is God’s will. And he will return to Ephesus, so you get a sense that he kept them on his mind….And so Paul’s second missionary journey closes in verse 22 and his third one begins in verse 23. Paul shows the value of returning to home base as well as returning once again to the churches he founded on his first missionary journey. Follow up is really important.

And how good that God provides a way for Apollos to have his understanding further enhanced as well as Apollos, a learned man himself, being humble enough to listen and be instructed. No one is beyond being instructed and we should all remain teachable….