Welcome to

Chapter 18

Acts 18:1… After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth. Finally we are coming to one of the most important churches in Bible history…They are arriving at Corinth, which is the capital of Achaia.Brothers, Corinth was a very sinful city and they gave Paul, as a church, a very hard time because they wanted to bring sin into the church.

PROBLEMS REPORTED BY THE HOUSE OF CHLOE (1:10-6:20)

A. FACTIONS IN THE CHURCH (1:1-4:21) B. SEXUAL IMMORALITY (5:1-13) C. LAWSUITS AMONG BRETHREN (6:1-11) D.MORAL DEFILEMENTS (6:12-20)

PROBLEMS MENTIONED IN THE LETTER FROM CORINTH (7:1-16:9)

A. MARRIAGE & CELIBACY (7:1-40) B. EATING MEATS SACRIFICED TO IDOLS

(8:1-11:1) C. WOMEN PRAYING AND PROPHESYING

WITH HEADS UNCOVERED (11:2-16) D.THE LORD'S SUPPER (11:17-34) E. SPIRITUAL GIFTS (12:1-14:40) F. RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD (15:1-

58) G.G. COLLECTION FOR THE SAINTS (16:1-

4)

Acts 18:2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them.Aquila, a really faithful Christian who for God’s providence Paul met in Corinth.He was from the city of Pontus. Where is Pontus?He comes from the country of Italy, they were living in Italy, but they were commanded to depart from Rome by the emperor Claudius.

Who is this Claudius man?

Acts 18:2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them.

HistoryTiberius Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus was the fourth Roman Emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Born in Gaul (modern-day Lyon, France), to Drusus and Antonia Minor, he was the first Roman Emperor to be born outside Italy.Acts 11:28… Which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.Roman Historian Suetonis Confirms Acts 18"He banished from Rome all the Jews, who were continually making disturbances at the instigation of one Chrestus. -Christ."

Acts 18:2 And he found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to depart from Rome); and he came to them.Paul came to live with this couple; he moved in with them, (and as the next verse shows) began working for them.Again, this is a Christian couple and for the Apostles, it was very easy to get along with and share the things that they had done with the gospel.We don't know why Claudius commanded all of the Jews to move out of Rome.

Acts 18:3 So, because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers.“TRADE” = “occupation”. Aquila and Priscilla have a small, Private business, and Paul is taken in, to live with them and to share in the work. It was a regular custom among the Jews to teach their sons some useful trade, so that they would always have a way to earn an honest living.He wanted to keep himself from any suspicions of self-interests in his work as a teacher. 1 Cor 9:15-19; 2 Cor 11:7-13; Acts 20:34; 2 Thess 3:9, 10…

Acts 18:4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded both Jews and Greeks.In Which Synagogue did he reason every Saturday? Remember, this reason always included the teaching of the gospel of Jesus.Remember, the reason why he went to the synagogues Saturday after Saturday was because there, the biggest concentration of religious Jews were found.He is trying to persuade them to believe his message and to become Christians. Luke says that there were Greeks among them in the Synagogues, and with this we can understand that they were Proselytes...

Acts 18:5... When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.They came to Paul, because he had sent back to Macedonia, with the brethren who had accompanied him to Athens. He sent a request for them to come (Acts 17:15; 1 Thess 3:1, 2).He was worried about the Thessalonians and now that Timothy is back, he is happy to hear good news about the brethren 1 Thess 3:6.NASB Acts 18:5...But when Silas and

Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to the word,

solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.

Acts 18:5... When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.How can we testify that Jesus is the Christ?We must open the Bible!Are we commanded also to testify to people that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah, the Saviour?Yes, we have the same task. We, like Paul, have the same hope and we must tell people who Jesus is and the things that he can do for them if they allow Him to come into their lives!

Acts 18:6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, "Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."NASB Acts 18:6 But when they resisted and blasphemed, he shook out his garments and said to them, "Your blood be

on your own heads! I am clean. From now on I will go to the

Gentiles.“Opposition will come when the enemies of Christ notice that the gospel is having success

among sinners.These people showed great

opposition to the gospel. They were close minded concerning Jesus and they were not willing

to listen...

Acts 18:6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, "Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."

It was at the close of one of the Sabbath services that Paul took of his garment and began shaking the dust

off of it.This was symbolism among them.

From now on they are responsible for whatever happens to them in the

future... Matthew 10:14...

The Christian disciple is to turn from those who continue to reject the

gospel; but when rejected, he is to continue on, not quitting or slacking

up. Note: Paul did exactly what Christ said for us to do. He shook off the

dust of those who had rejected him.

Acts 18:6 But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, "Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."See? It was the same Jewish people; they were the ones who rejected the gospel of Christ...They were the main and the original recipients for the word of God, but they did not want it!John 1:11; Acts 3:26; Acts 13:46.Paul was called by Christ as the apostle of the Gentiles and, it is for this reason that Paul confessed... “I will go to the Gentiles”

Acts 9:15… But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children

of Israel.

Acts 18:7... he departed from there and entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue.The Christian disciple identified with those to whom he ministered. Rejected by the Jews, Paul could no longer preach in the synagogue. Note what he did: he began to preach in the home of a convert named Justus.We do not know much about Justus only that he was one who worshipped God.The rejection by the ones in the synagogue did not stop Paul from preaching the gospel. Justus had his house next door to the synagogue so basically he could see, and hear who was coming to the synagogue...

Acts 18:8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.Another man comes to the record, this time, Crispus...Who was Crispus? He was the ruler of the synagogue...The Christian disciple witnessed to all- high and low. This is clearly seen in that the chief ruler of the synagogue and his family were reached for Christ. But, so were many of the other citizens of Corinth.Remember, many of these would be coming from the most sinful backgrounds imaginable, for Corinth was one of the cesspools of immorality and night club life in the ancient world.

Acts 18:8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized. Ok, get ready to discuss this point.Let’s hear what the Bible says:HearingBelieveBaptizedThese steps, do they Sound familiar to you?They are part of the simple plan of salvation.By inference we believe that they repented of their sins and confessed Jesus as the son of God. Remember Acts 2:38; Acts 8:37.Simply “believing” will never, ever be enough for God

Acts 18:8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.We were talking last Sunday morning that many people want to make baptism an option, but that's not what the Bible says.We find that in every passage in the Bible baptism is a commandment...Baptism is an act of faith and we must see it like that, as an act of obedience unto God.There are few options in the Bible and certainly baptism IS NOT ONE OF THEM...We must continue to tell people that if they want to go to heaven they must obey God’s requirements...Baptism is ONE OF THEM.Acts 22:16 An option or a commandment?

Acts 18:8 Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized.And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized. Men can deny many things, but will never erase, from the Bible, the fact that if a person wants to be a Christian, baptism is “essential.”Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:37-41; Acts 8:12; Acts 8:35-38; Romans 10:14-17; 1 Corinthians 1:13-17.There is no need to argue with God.The Corinthians understood the call of the gospel and they obeyed it!What is the problem with men today? Why is it that they love to contradict the will of God?

Acts 18:9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;This is what we need from time to time.The Christian disciple faced terrible discouragement. This is a striking picture of just how human Paul was, and how dependent he was on the Lord's presence and encouragement. What happened to this Christian servant is a glorious lesson for every Christian servant when facing terrible discouragement.

Acts 18:9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;Keep in mind how severely he had been

persecuted, suffering so much for his precious Lord...

•  His life had been threatened in Damascus (Acts 9:23).•  his life had been threatened again in Jerusalem (Acts 9:29).•  He had been persecuted and run out of Antioch of Pisidia (Acts 13:50).•  He had faced possible stoning in Iconium (Acts 14:5).•  He had been stoned and left for dead in Lystra (Acts 14:19).•  He had been opposed and made the center of controversy by the church itself (Acts 15:1f).

Acts 18:9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;Keep in mind how severely he had

been persecuted, suffering so much for his precious Lord...

•  He had experienced the loss of his closest friend and companion, Barnabas (Acts 15:39).•  He had been beaten with rods and imprisoned in Philippi (Acts 16:23f).•  He had been cast out of Philippi (Acts 16:39).•  His life had been threatened in Thessalonica (Acts 17:5-7, 10).•  He had been forced out of Berea (Acts 17:13-14).•  He had been mocked in Athens (Acts 17:18).

Acts 18:9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;Was Paul afraid of being in

Corinth?Lord Jesus says: “Don't be afraid”... so he was!The dear servant of God was shrinking from having to face the uproar of persecution again. He was apparently thinking about moving on or else keeping silent for awhile, hoping that the storm would pass. This is seen in the very first words which the Lord spoke to Paul...•  Be not afraid•  Speak•  Hold not thy peaceLet’s hear from Paul himself...1 Cor 2:3; 2 Cor 7:5

Acts 18:9 Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent;Are we alone? Is God with us when we are going through those hard moments in our lives?It is the very same promise He gives to us (Matthew 28:20). Paul needed nothing else, just the perfect assurance and sense of the Lord's presence, the presence of the One who had done so much for him and whom he loved so much.Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 43:1-3; 2 Tim. 1:7-8.God is with us and he will always keep and protect us from any danger that we must face.We are NOT alone and Paul was not alone. God was taking care of him and is taking care of us.

Acts 18:10 "for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city."“For I am with you”...Do we trust Him?Jesus spoke to Paul on different occasions. 9:4; 22:17; 16:9; 23:11; 27:23…“And no one will attack you”.Do we trust?Matthew 10:30,31. Matthew 10:26-28; 1 Cor 4:9-13; 2 Cor 11:23-28; Phil 3:10; Col 1:24, 25.“For I have many people in this city.“Remember Elijah? 1 King 19:18; Remember Jonah? Jonah 4:11.

Acts 18:11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

He stayed 18 months in a city where he was very afraid, with the help of God.What was the purpose?He stayed 18 months, and the purpose for this was so that he could teach the gospel in a city where the church absorbed almost every sin found there.It was important to stay that long in order to prepare the people of God from their sins…

WHERE ARE WE GEOGRAPHICALLY

SPEAKING…WE ARE IN CHAPTER 18, BUT HOW DOES

EVERYTHING START

45-48 A.DActs 13 and 14.

Acts 18:12 When Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews with one accord rose up against Paul and brought him to the judgment seat,See? These Jews are willing to kill Paul, they don't give up... Every evil person will always go the extra mile in order to execute their plan.They are bringing Paul to the proconsul, Gallio, in order to find support to condemn Paul for something that he has not done…This is not the first or last time we will see Paul suffer in the hands of his own people…

Acts 18:13 saying, "This fellow persuades men to worship God contrary to the law."Paul, here, has become the object of a great lie. This was the exact same lie that these men used against Stephen...Acts 6:12, 13...In 17:7, He was accused. Here, it has occurred again in order to put Paul in trouble...Was Paul teaching men to worship God contrary to the law?Never! The accusation is false!Lord Jesus was accused many times, for they did not understand the way that he spoke to them...Matthew 5:17; Acts 17:6; Matthew 15:9

Acts 18:14 And when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If it were a matter of wrongdoing or wicked crimes, O Jews, there would be reason why I should bear with you.See? Paul was ready to open his mouth... Don't give him a chance though, because he had the power to keep everyone silent and attentive.The attitude of these Jewish men explains why Cesar sent all of the Jews out of Rome. Ver. 2. They were annoying.Gallio explained the situation well: “If this accusation is a crime, then I will listen to you”… He does not want to become involved in other problems…

Acts 18:15 "But if it is a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves; for I do not want to be a judge of such matters."All of these leaders knew the Jews. They were blind followers and the governors knew that they were willing, even to lie, for the law.Gallio is talking like Pilate when he says “look to it yourself” Matthew 27:4; 27:24.He was very open when he said that he was not in the position to Judge their complaints…John 18:31.Many of the Christians in the first century and even today, suffered, due to the lies from their own country men…

Acts 18:16 And he drove them from the judgment seat.They loved to be treated like that. When the governors were tired of them they just threw them out of the political places...He refused to hear and decide the controversy. He commanded them to depart from the court. The word used here does not denote that there was any violence used by Gallio, but merely that he dismissed them in an authoritative manner.Will they give up?No, later they will try again with Paul and his partners...Evil men do not cease to fight against God.

Acts 18:17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things.Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue...Sosthenes later became a convert to Christ. He also became a minister of the gospel with Paul (1 Cor. 1:1).How marvelously the Lord fulfilled His promise to Paul, not only in protecting him from harm, but the Lord converted the very leader of those who would harm His dear servant.

Acts 18:17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. But Gallio took no notice of these things.Apparently these gatherings were held in the open public. They were outside because Luke says that they beat Sosthenes the ruler of the synagogue and who later became a Christian in the open air. Right before the judgment seat…Gallio who was was proconsul of Achaia took no notice...That is he did not care what was happening because it was based on their beliefs and traditions...

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Self-Denial— Zeal: After the court trial and a favorable ruling by the proconsul Gallio, Paul was able to settle down in a permanent ministry, coming and going and bearing witness and ministering freely. Scripture says he remained in Corinth for a good while, for many days. Ministering freely without the pressure and strain of open abuse and opposition was a real treat for Paul. No man could blame Paul for settling down and carrying on a dynamic ministry in Corinth.

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Self-Denial— Zeal: ⇒  He was protected by Gallio's ruling.⇒  He was having phenomenal results.⇒  He was loved by many of the believers.⇒  He was in a strategic city of commerce and trade which would assure the spread of the gospel far and wide.

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.But note a critical fact. God had not called Paul to be the preacher of a local church. Paul was called to carry the gospel forth as an evangelist and a missionary. To remain in Corinth as a local church preacher would be against God's will. Paul would miss God's great call for his life.The point is this: being the heroic believer that he was, Paul...• struck out because it was the only way to

fulfill God's purpose for his life.•  struck out despite being comfortably settled.•  struck out to carry the message of the glorious gospel forth.•  struck out to reach men and women, boys

and girls for Jesus Christ.

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Thought 1. How many turn away from God's call because of...•  family and friends•  success and acceptance•  position and prestige•  possessions and materialism•  security and safetyThe heroic believer refuses to miss God's will and call for his life. He denies himself and takes up his cross daily and follows Christ, no matter where it takes him.Luke 9:23-24; John 9:4; 1 Cor. 15:58; 2 Tim. 1:6...

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Vows: Paul put himself under vows when needed. When Paul left Corinth he took some vow before the Lord, refusing to cut his hair until the vow was fulfilled. It was completed when he reached Cenchrea and he cut his hair. What was the vow? Was it a vow...

• of thanksgiving and praise for such a fruitful ministry in Corinth?

• of commitment to break away from such a comfortable and peaceful ministry in Corinth?

• of prayer for safety as he travelled back home to Antioch?The answer is unknown. However, there is a great lesson for believers in the fact that Paul took a vow before the Lord. Vows are too often ignored and dismissed by believers...

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Vows: the heroic disciple put himself under vows when needed. When Paul left Corinth he took some vow before the Lord, refusing to cut his hair until the vow was fulfilled. It was completed when he reached Cenchrea and he cut his hair. What was the vow? Was it a vow...

• of thanksgiving and praise for such a fruitful ministry in Corinth?

• of commitment to break away from such a comfortable and peaceful ministry in Corinth?

• of prayer for safety as he travelled back home to Antioch?

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Priscilla and Aquila are with Paul.From chapter 18:1,2 we know that this couple are just arriving from Italy.We also know that they make tents as a living and Paul was working with them...You can never say that you don’t need your brothers in Christ at all. Here we can see that Paul the great apostle of Jesus is in need of Christian company...Christian encouragement is all what we need, it is a fundamental help for our Christian life...Galatians 6:1-2; John 13:34; John 15:12; 1 Thes 5:14.

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Vows:

The answer is unknown. However, there is a great lesson for believers in the fact that Paul took a vow before the Lord. Vows are too often ignored and dismissed by believers...

Numbers 30:2; Deut. 23:21-23; Job 22:27; Psalm 22:25; Psalm 50:14 15; Psalm 56:12; Psalm 65:1; Psalm 76:11; Psalm 116:14-15, 17-18; Eccles. 5:4-5; Jonah 2:9; Nahum 1:15).

Acts 18:18 So Paul still remained a good while. Then he took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and Priscilla and Aquila were with him. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea, for he had taken a vow.Vows:

All of these passages are talking about people making vows or promises to God...The seriousness of this is...Were they willing to keep their vows?

Numbers 30:2; Deut. 23:21-23; Job 22:27; Psalm 22:25; Psalm 50:14 15; Psalm 56:12; Psalm 65:1; Psalm 76:11; Psalm 116:14-15, 17-18; Eccles. 5:4-5; Jonah 2:9; Nahum 1:15).

Is it Biblical to make vows!Let’s all understand first what

is a vow?Definition: a solemn promise, pledge, or personal commitment: marriage vows; a vow of secrecy. Can I as a Christian do that today?Can I promise to my God in heaven this and that?

Let me say something before You make a “vow” to God

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5...When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed 5 Better not to vow than to vow and not pay.

What Solomon is telling us There is:

Do not promise anything to God in your life if you are not in the position to keep what you have promise! Lord I (vow) promise to be more faithful to

you in this coming 2010... Lord I (vow) promise to you to love my wife

more from now on... Lord I (vow) promise to study your word

more from now on...

What Solomon is telling us There is:

Do not promise anything to God in your life if you are not in the position to keep what you have promise! Lord I (vow) promise to be more involve in the

work that this church is carrying on... Lord I (vow) promise to you to be more active

in the services from now on... Lord I (vow) promise not to forsake the

assemblies as I have been doing in the past...

What Solomon is telling us There is:

Do not promise anything to God in your life if you are not in the position to keep what you have promise!When we say all that... Are we in the position to keep that (vow) promise?Remember what Solomon said:Ecclesiastes 5:4-5...When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed 5 Better not to vow than to vow and not pay.

Are we less guilty if we do notMake any vows?

No the punishment is the same for everyone.Vow or no vow you made a big one the day that you were baptized and that vow will be there for ever.Let me refresh your memory a little bit...Hear The pure gospel of Jesus and be willing to obey it!Believe That Jesus is the son of God and that he die for you...Repent You recognized your sins and you were willing to repent...Confess Did you confess Jesus in front of people? What do you think that was? A vow, a promise, a pledge, a commitment?Baptism The outer testimony that I belong to Christ.

Can I make a vow to God?Yes…

But remember!Ecclesiastes 5:4...When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed.

Acts 18:19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there; but he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.

Acts 18:19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there; but he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.Paul's stay in Ephesus at this time was very brief. But he did not sit still. No matter where Paul was or the brevity of his stay, he bore testimony to the glorious salvation in Christ Jesus. Note that he reasoned with the Jews...Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8; Acts 4:20; 2 Cor. 4:13).He is doing exactly what he did before. To sit down and reason with people is the best way to make them understand the gospel of Jesus.There are some who are not willing to sit down and reason to see what we can do...We know what Jesus already told us...

Acts 18:20 When they asked him to stay a longer time with them, he did not consent,

Who is asking Paul to stay longer...Who are they?Even the Jews in Ephesus were open to Paul on this brief visit. They asked him to stay with them for a while, hungering for the Word of God. But he could not stay, not now. There are times when we cannot stay with people there are others things that demand our attention.He did not consent this is equal to: disagreeing, not in favor with them.What is the reason for Paul not to stay with the Jews from Ephesus at this time?

Acts 18:21 but took leave of them, saying, "I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem; but I will return again to you, God willing." And he sailed from Ephesus.What feast is Paul referring to?Pentecost?We are not sure which one it is. All we can say is that this feast was really important to Paul, the point where he said: “I must by all means”The promise that he made was very important...I will return again God willing! What do we learn from these words?James says that everything we do must be done in the will of God first James 4:15; 1 Cor 4:19; 1 Cor 16:7; Heb 6:3…

Acts 18:22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch.

Acts 18:22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch.Many consider that the term “the church” here, means or refers to the mother church…By the way, which church was that?Was there a church of Christ in Caesarea?Who are some of the members?Cornelius and his household. Paul probably went and greeted the church that was in the house of Cornelius… Acts 10:1,2…Many believe that he went to the church in Jerusalem based on the phrase “He went up”, and, that previously he mentioned he “must” keep the feast in Jerusalem…

Acts 18:22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch.

Acts 18:22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up and greeted the church, he went down to Antioch.Who was the church of Antioch?Well, this is the church that was, if you will, “supporting” Paul in all of his travels so far. It is fair for him to go up, pass by, and give reports of what he has been doing, to them…When he arrived in Antioch, that was the conclusion of his second missionary journey…Cities that he went to were:Derbe and Lystra, Troas, Neapolis, Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, Caesarea, The Jews, his own country men, had resisted him in almost every city- with the exception of Athens and Ephesus.

Acts 18:23 After he had spent some time there, he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

Northside, Welcome to Paul’s Third

Missionary Journey!

Acts 18:23 After he had spent some time there, he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.After spending some days with the church in Antioch, Paul is now ready to start all over again…This is what we know as THE THIRD MISSIONARY JOURNEY…Remember the third missionary journey starts in chapter 18 verse 23…Let’s travel with the man of God and see what regions he will visit this time…Again, let me remind you that the life of this man would be just that …. traveling .Our Lord Jesus very emphatically said: You are my chosen instrument…

Acts 18:23 After he had spent some time there, he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

Acts 18:23 After he had spent some time there, he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.He is moving to the regions of Galatia and Phrygia…What is the purpose for this?To strengthen the brethren!Do we have the same duty today? Are we commanded to take care of one another and make sure that all things are ok in our lives?

Well, Paul was the one who gave this commandment many times, because he was worried for all of the churches of

the Lord. He mentions it in 2 Cor 11:28… besides the other things, what comes

upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.

Acts 14:22; Acts 15:32, 41;

Acts 18:24… Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus.Luke is introducing to us a Jew, named Apollos.Who is this Apollos? #1 This is a Jewish man born in Alexandria. a) Where is Alexandria? 1) Alexandria is a very important city of the seaport of Egypt, founded by Alexander the Great. In his honor they named it: Alexandria. 2) He was born in Alexandria. The idea here is that his ancestors were already living in Alexandria for a while.

Acts 18:24… Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus.The strong disciple was an eloquent man, mighty in the Scriptures. The term "eloquent man" (anēr -logios) can mean either learned or eloquent. In this case it probably means both. But, note the point: it was the Scriptures that Apollos...•  learned so well.•  spoke forth so eloquently or forcefully.Apollos had learned the Old Testament Scriptures by memory and spent hours meditating on them. He understood and believed them, grasping the promises of the Messiah. Therefore, when he saw or heard the proclamation of John the Baptist, he was ready to receive the promises of the Savior and to proclaim them.

Acts 18:24… Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus."Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Tim. 2:15)."All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2 Tim. 3:16)."These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11)."And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified" (Acts 20:32).

Acts 18:24… Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus.See? When you realize that this man was very eloquent and powerful in the scriptures, it is no wonder then, to hear of the church at Corinth taking sides and saying “I am of Apollos”. 1 Cor 1:12.In 1 Cor 3:5-6 Paul is trying to convince the Corinthians that we the “servants”, are nothing. It is only God who gives the increase…In 1 Cor 4:6 Paul is using Apollos and himself in order not think more than what is written.In 1 Cor 16:12 Paul asked Apollos to come to Corinth but he didn’t on that occasion.In Titus 3:13 Paul is telling Titus to help Apollos in what ever he might need.

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.Apollos has been instructed… Instructed by whom? We don’t know. What we know Is that he was well instructed in the way of the Lord…What is the way of the Lord in this context?It is very clear that the way of the Lord is the Old Testament, the one that they know so far, because the New Testament is barely in progress.

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.Jesus says in John 5:39…”You search the scriptures” this is a reference to the Old Testament.Paul says: in 2 Tim 3:16…“All scripture is given by inspiration of God”… Making also reference to the Old Testament.Apollos was instructed in the way of the Lord- Isaiah 40:8

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.This proclaims a loud message to all Christian parents and teachers, Christian children and students. A believer must be instructed in the "way of the Lord" in order to become a strong disciple of the Lord.

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John."Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31-32)."These things command and teach. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee" (1 Tim. 4:11-16).

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.

"When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also" (2 Tim. 1:5)."And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient" (2 Tim. 2:24).

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.

"And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 3:15)."And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up" (Deut. 6:6-7).

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John."That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: that they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments" (Psalm 78:6-7)."And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean" (Ezekiel 44:23).

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.We must be trained in the way of the Lord. Otherwise, we will not be able to defend the truth from those who are teaching error.

My brothers, the days are evil and we must learn the way of the Lord in all of its accuracy…

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.I'm saying all of this because, in the next phrase, Luke says that Apollos taught accurately the things of The Lord.Can we do that?Apollos taught the way of the Lord fervently, because he wanted people to get to know Jesus his Lord. Apollos was another “John the Baptist” who came exactly like him, full of fervor.

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.We must have this love in all of us and if not, then we need to “rekindle the fire of God” in us again, so that he can teach us to love His word as from the beginning.Revelation 2:5; Romans 12:11; Col 1:28-29; 2 Tim 2:4; We have to appeal to every member to love God more and more…

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.though…!What is the meaning of Though in the English language?conjdespite the fact that; Conceding or supposing that; even if:Even though the man was eloquent and very accurate, there was a problemWhat was that?

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.Though he knew only the baptism of John.

But… What is the problem?

Isn’t the Baptism of John the will of God for men before Jesus came?Many sectarians are practicing just that!

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.

though…!The baptism of John was good, but was not enough to justify men before God.Apollos was teaching what he knew, but he was missing what Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:18-20…

Acts 18:25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.though…!He had not learned that Peter in Acts 2:38, when talking about baptism, promised the Holy Spirit as a gift to those who were obedient to God’s commandments.Brothers, the baptism of John was good- but just as an introduction to the new one, that would soon come. That, is the baptism of water and of the Spirit.

Ac 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.The baptism of John, that Apollos was teaching, was all he knew. Apollos was so eloquent that he even dared to go in the synagogues like Paul.When we are not teaching right, is it embarrassing to recognize it and change?

Ac 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

No. Remember, we don’t know everything and in one way or another, we will miss something…To change and recognize are attributes of humble people.

Ac 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

When Aquila and Priscilla…

It is refreshing to know that there will be brothers willing to help us recognize when we are not accurate.

Ac 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.Let me make some comments here#1… I don’t see Aquila and Priscilla saying… Aha! We finally caught him! He made a mistake! Yahoooooo! Do we have people like that in church today? Sure we do. They want to see

the preacher fail, the church fail and everything that we do fail.

Ac 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.#2…I don’t see Apollos saying:

Well, this is the way I learned it, and I will never change. The person that taught me is already dead/ is not here /was well prepared…

#3… When correcting somebody we need to use: Love, understanding, and patience, considering yourself...

Proverbs 1:5; 9:9; 25:12; Matthew 18:3,4; 1 Cor 3:18; 8:2; 12:21; 2 Peter 3:18…

Acts 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.Apollos, by the mouths of two brothers in Christ, learned the way of the Lord more “Accurately”. #1. Jesus is Savior and His blood can redeem us from sin. #2.Jesus promised His Holy

Spirit, and now, everyone who obeys can receive it.

Acts 18:26 So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.#3. We are NOT living under the Old Law but under the New because Jesus erased the Old with all of the rites and sacrifices, when He died on the Cross. Col 2:14 #4. There is a New Promise for

those who follow Jesus and are faithful until death.

#5. God will be worshipped in spirit and in truth by his people, on a new day, following the New Testament as our only rule of faith.

Acts 18:27 And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace;

Acts 18:27 And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace;Apollos was called to preach and evangelize; therefore, as soon as he had the full gospel he was set afire and wanted to go to Corinth (Achaia) and share the gospel there. Apparently he felt the Ephesians church was in excellent hands under the leadership of Priscilla and Aquila and he could be more useful elsewhere.The Ephesian church encouraged him, even writing a letter of recommendation for him to the church at Corinth (2 Cor. 3:1). A letter from Priscilla and Aquila would open the door to Corinth for him and assure his being received (Acts 18:1f).

Acts 18:27 And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace;The point to note is the fire to reach the world for Christ that burned in Apollos. And just think, prior to this he did not even have the full message of Christ. (What a dynamic example for us all!)

1. He burned to help and serve other believers. He helped them much, edifying, exhorting, watering what Paul had planted (1 Cor. 3:6).

2. Do we feel the same way?3. Do we worry knowing that there are

people dying in the world in their sins while we’re having fun on the weekends?

Acts 18:28 for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.2.  He burned to reach out to the lost. The words used in this verse show how deeply he burned with the message of the Lord. a.  The word "mightily" (eutonōs ) means that

he used the Scriptures with power, straining earnestly to prove that Jesus is the Christ, the true Messiah.

b.  The word "convinced" (diakatēlegcheto) means confronted, argued down, refuted to the very last point, defeated in argument. And he did it publicly.

But note: he was not using human reason to argue; he was using the Scripture. And his purpose was to prove that Jesus is the Messiah. John 4:35; Romans 1:14-16;1 Cor. 2:2;Col. 1:29.