Today, in Acts we are introduced to Apollos, a Jew from Alexandria (northern Egypt). What can we learn about him and from him in the five verses from Acts 18:24-28?
Apollos is said to be "given instruction in the Way of the Lord" (v 25); and when heard by Priscilla and Aquila (Jewish Christians from Rome, Acts 18:2), was given "further instruction about the Way" (v 26). From him we learn that we need to be humble, and to be willing to be taught by others, in our faith formation.
Apollos is said to have "a sound knowledge of the scriptures" (v 24); is "accurate in all the details he taught about Jesus" (v 25); and "demonstrated from the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ" (v 28). From him we learn that we need to know:- 1) scriptures; 2) Jesus' life, death, and resurrection; and 3) Jesus as the Christ the Messiah - Hebrew: the Anointed One of God.
Apollos "preached with great earnestness" (v 25); he spoke "boldly in the synagogue" (Jewish place of worship; v 26); and "refuted the Jews in public" (v 28) in an "energetic way" (v 28). From him we learn the need to be:- 1) earnest (v 25) and bold (v 26) in sharing the Gospel; and 2) energetic in defending our faith (v 28).
Apollos was "eloquent" (v 24) and enabled "by God's grace" (v 27). From him we learn to look to God and depend on God to empower us to be God's messengers.
Lord, may we learn from him how to live our daily lives proclaiming You and encouraging others to do likewise.