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Learning From Apollos
Aaron Erhardt
“And
a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in
the scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord;
and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of
the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 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. And when he was disposed
to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him:
who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: For he
mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, showing by the scriptures that
Jesus was Christ” (Acts 18:24-28).
Apollos is one of the great men of God mentioned in the New Testament, though he
is often overlooked in such conversations. He was a workhorse for the truth. Let
us note several impressive things about Apollos.
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Apollos used his talents for the Lord. This man was blessed with great
ability. He was an eloquent man. Other versions say “a good speaker” (NCV),
“a very good speaker” (CEV), and “could talk…very well” (NLV). Apparently he
was a dynamic speaker who could capture an audience with his speeches. The
important thing, however, is that he used his talents for the Lord. Many in
the church have great ability. They could very capably lead singing, teach
classes, or preach the gospel. Yet they do not. Learn from Apollos.
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Apollos was not above learning. Although he was very talented, this man did
not become arrogant or puffed up. He gladly learned from Aquila and
Priscilla. Sometimes talented people feel as if they are above instruction.
They view instruction from others as an insult. Learn from Apollos.
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Apollos was a faithful soldier of King Jesus. This man was not afraid to
boldly proclaim and defend the truth of the gospel. He “vigorously refuted
the Jews in public debate” (18:28, NIV). All those in the body of Christ are
soldiers. We have been commanded to “earnestly contend for the faith” (Jude
3). This involves striving for the mastery, disputing with the adversary,
arguing with the opponent, and debating the cause. Too many Christians are
soft and timid. They have lost their militancy. Learn from Apollos.
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