This week we’ve reached Paul’s third missionary journey. This journey was much different from his first two. While those focused on evangelism, this third journey focused on encouraging the disciples in the areas Paul previously visited. Paul traveled to the churches he already established to strengthen them and to encourage them to depend on God.
An interesting character emerges in this passage: Apollos. A Jew from Alexandria, Apollos was a learned man and was very educated about the Old Testament scriptures. He also seemed to understand that Jesus was the Messiah and fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies. But he didn’t know about the Holy Spirit’s arrival at Pentecost. Apollos was boldly proclaiming the truth to unbelievers, so it was important that he understood the full story. While in Ephesus, Paul’s friends Priscilla and Aquila gently but firmly explained the whole story and filled in the blanks for Apollos. After that, Apollos didn’t lose his fervor. He continued to preach the good news and even traveled to Corinth to strengthen the believers there.
Two things hit me this week. First, I found a great example in Apollos. He shared what he knew about God while seeking more truths. Am I seeking more information about God? And do I share all I know with others?
Second, I saw the power of the Holy Spirit. He transformed Paul from the early church’s greatest enemy to its greatest teacher. He transformed all of these believers in Acts into bold missionaries for the Lord. He has transformed me from a sinner who lived only for myself into a Christian who is fully dependent on God and who lives only for Him. The Holy Spirit still is transforming me today, especially through my many years of studying in BSF. How is the Holy Spirit transforming you?