Opening: Do you have any friends in the Lord, people who have joined you in
ministry, with whom you have grown close because of that ministry?
Scripture: Read Acts 18:1-17.
Insights:
- Paul moves on to Corinth, which is 46 miles west of Athens. A Roman colony, it was the most influential city of the province of Achaia, both politically and economically. The church that would be established there would become a source of both joy and frustration for Paul, resulting in the writing of 1 & 2 Corinthians.
- Here we are first introduced to Aquila and his wife Priscilla. This is the only time Aquila is listed first. In all other biblical references, her name takes preference (see Acts 18:26; Romans 16:3; 2 Timothy 4:19). This seems to indicate that she was the leader of this preaching duo.
- Both Jews and Gentiles were won to the Lord. In verse 8, Crispus is listed as the leader of the synagogue and was one of the few baptized by Paul (see 1 Corinthians 1:14). Later in verse 17, Sosthenes has taken his place, maybe because of Crispus’ conversion. But according to 1 Corinthians 1:1, Sosthenes joined Paul’s team.
- Up to this point, opposition to his ministry usually forced Paul to leave a place of witness. But in a vision, God assured him that he would have a successful ministry in Corinth and would suffer no further harm. In obedience, Paul remained there for 18 months (49–51 A.D.), during which time he wrote 1 & 2 Thessalonians. He stayed longer than any other city except Ephesus. God’s assurance was immediately confirmed by Paul’s deliverance from an attempt to condemn him before the proconsul.
Life
Questions:
- Priscilla and Aquila become important colleagues with Paul in the spreading of the Gospel. Besides their faith, they shared in common the trade of tent making. Is there anyone you are connected with (friend, relative, acquaintance, neighbor) who might join you in some mission or witness.
- We don’t like to be confronted, especially with regards to our faith. Reread Acts 18:9-10. Could this message be for you as well? In what area of your witness do you need to hear the imperatives/commands “Don’t be afraid! Speak out! Don’t be silent!”?
Prayer
Focus: That we would be fearless in our lifestyle witness
and testimony to the saving power of God through Jesus Christ.
