Acts 18

Acts 18  covers Paul’s ministry in Corinth, his return to Antioch, and the beginning of his third missionary journey. This chapter highlights the formation of new Christian communities, the support of fellow believers, and the ongoing spread of the gospel despite opposition. 

Key Points:

1. Paul in Corinth:

   • Paul leaves Athens and goes to Corinth. He meets Aquila and his wife Priscilla, who are tentmakers like Paul. He stays and works with them (Acts 18:1-3).

   • Every Sabbath, Paul reasons in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks (Acts 18:4).

   • When Silas and Timothy arrive from Macedonia, Paul devotes himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah (Acts 18:5).

   • Facing opposition and abuse from the Jews, Paul declares he will turn to the Gentiles. He moves next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God (Acts 18:6-7).

   • 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).

2. The Lord’s Encouragement:

   • The Lord speaks to Paul in a vision, telling him not to be afraid, to keep on speaking, and not to be silent. The Lord assures Paul that He is with him and that no one will harm him because He has many people in the city (Acts 18:9-10).

   • Paul stays in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching the word of God (Acts 18:11).

3. Opposition and Gallio’s Judgment:

   • The Jews make a united attack on Paul and bring him to the proconsul Gallio, accusing him of persuading people to worship God in ways contrary to the law (Acts 18:12-13).

   • Gallio dismisses the case, refusing to judge on matters of Jewish law, and drives them out of the court (Acts 18:14-16).

   • The crowd then turns on Sosthenes, the synagogue leader, and beats him in front of the proconsul, who shows no concern (Acts 18:17).

4. Return to Antioch:

   • Paul stays in Corinth for some time before setting sail for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before sailing, he has his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken (Acts 18:18).

   • They arrive at Ephesus, where Paul leaves Priscilla and Aquila. He reasons with the Jews in the synagogue and promises to return if it is God's will (Acts 18:19-21).

   • Paul then travels to Caesarea, greets the church, and goes down to Antioch (Acts 18:22).

5. The Beginning of the Third Missionary Journey:

   • After spending some time in Antioch, Paul sets out on his third missionary journey, traveling from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples (Acts 18:23).

6. Apollos in Ephesus and Achaia:

   • A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, comes to Ephesus. He is well-versed in the Scriptures and has been instructed in the way of the Lord. He speaks with great fervor and teaches about Jesus accurately, though he knows only the baptism of John (Acts 18:24-25).

   • Priscilla and Aquila hear him, take him aside, and explain the way of God more accurately to him (Acts 18:26).

   • Apollos wants to go to Achaia, and the believers encourage him and write to the disciples there to welcome him. He is a great help to those who believe, vigorously refuting the Jews in public debate and proving from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah (Acts 18:27-28).

Takeaways:

1. Collaboration in Ministry:

   • Paul’s partnership with Aquila and Priscilla underscores the importance of collaboration and mutual support in ministry.

   • Working together in ministry can lead to significant encouragement and effectiveness in spreading the gospel.

2. Persistence Despite Opposition:

   • Paul faces opposition and abuse but remains steadfast in his mission. His decision to turn to the Gentiles reflects adaptability and a focus on reaching receptive audiences.

   • Persistence in the face of opposition is crucial for the advancement of the gospel.

3. Divine Encouragement and Protection:

   • The Lord’s vision to Paul provides reassurance and encouragement to continue preaching despite challenges. This divine encouragement underscores God's presence and protection in ministry.

   • Knowing that God has people in unexpected places can provide strength and motivation to continue the work.

4. Role of Leaders and Teachers:

   • Gallio’s refusal to judge on matters of Jewish law highlights the distinction between religious and secular authority.

   • Priscilla and Aquila’s role in mentoring Apollos demonstrates the importance of discipleship and teaching in the church. Correcting and instructing others in the faith can lead to greater accuracy and effectiveness in ministry.

5. Strengthening Believers:

   • Paul’s journeys emphasize the importance of not only evangelizing but also strengthening and encouraging existing believers. Follow-up and continued teaching are essential for the growth and maturity of the church.

   • Apollos’ ministry in Achaia shows how well-instructed believers can be powerful witnesses and defenders of the faith.

6. Adaptability and Cultural Sensitivity:

   • Paul’s actions, such as taking a vow, reflect his cultural sensitivity and adaptability in different contexts to reach people with the gospel.

   • Adapting practices to fit cultural contexts can be a strategic way to connect with and influence diverse groups.

Acts 18 highlights the dynamic nature of Paul’s ministry, the importance of teamwork, the necessity of perseverance in the face of opposition, and the value of ongoing teaching and discipleship. It also emphasizes God’s providence and encouragement in the missionary endeavors of the early church.