Acts 18:26
And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
Acts 18:26 (KJV)
Context
Acts 18:26 is part of the narrative describing the ministry of the Apostle Paul during his second missionary journey. In this chapter, Paul arrives in Corinth and begins preaching the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. While in Corinth, he meets Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish couple who were tentmakers by trade. In Acts 18, they had recently come to Corinth after being expelled from Rome by Emperor Claudius. They opened their home to Paul and shared a similar trade, establishing a bond with him.
The setting of verse 26 is the synagogue in Ephesus, a major city in Asia Minor. Apollos, a Jew from Alexandria, had arrived there and began to speak boldly. The Greek word translated “expounded” (ekthetai) means to unfold, explain, or set forth in detail. The phrase “more perfectly” (akribesteron) indicates a more accurate, precise, or complete understanding. Other translations render this as “more accurately” or “more exactly.“
Meaning
In verse 26, Apollos began to speak boldly in the synagogue. This indicates his courage and zeal in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, even in the face of opposition and potential persecution. Apollos was not afraid to speak openly about his faith and to engage with others in discussing and debating the truths of the Gospel.
Aquila and Priscilla, upon hearing Apollos’ message in the synagogue, recognized that he had a partial understanding of the Gospel. They took him aside and “expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” This suggests that Apollos had some knowledge of Jesus, but he needed further instruction and clarification in understanding the teachings of Christ. The preceding context (Acts 18:25) indicates that Apollos only knew the baptism of John, lacking the full knowledge of Christian baptism and the Holy Spirit.
The “way of God” is a term used in Acts to describe the Christian faith and its doctrine (Acts 9:2, 19:9, 19:23, 24:14, 24:22). Aquila and Priscilla, rather than publicly correcting Apollos, took him privately to instruct him more fully. This action demonstrates a model of discipleship and correction that is both private and instructive.
Biblical connections
Aquila and Priscilla exemplify the importance of mentorship and discipleship in the Christian faith. They recognized the potential in Apollos and took the initiative to guide him in a deeper understanding of the Gospel. Their action demonstrates the responsibility and privilege of mature believers to nurture and instruct younger or less knowledgeable believers. The order of names, with Priscilla often mentioned before Aquila, is a notable detail in Acts, suggesting her prominence or activity in the ministry of teaching.
Application
Apollos’ willingness to learn from Aquila and Priscilla teaches us the importance of humility and a desire for growth in our spiritual journey. Despite his eloquence and fervor in preaching, Apollos recognized that there were aspects of the faith that he had not yet fully grasped. By being open to instruction, he was able to enhance his understanding of the Gospel and be more effective in his ministry.
Acts 18:26 encourages believers to be bold in sharing the Gospel, to be open to learning and correction, and to actively participate in the discipleship and mentoring of fellow believers. It reminds us that there is always more to learn and discover about the way of God, and we can benefit from the wisdom and guidance of those who have gone before us.
Reflection
Acts 18:26 highlights the role of Aquila and Priscilla in mentoring and guiding Apollos in his understanding of the Gospel. It emphasizes the importance of boldness in proclaiming the truth, the humility to receive instruction, and the responsibility of mature believers to nurture and teach others in their faith.
