We are continuing our walking through the Book of Acts. This section chronicles Paul's continued missionary journey and his impactful ministry in Ephesus. This passage highlights Paul's dedication, the importance of discipleship, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
Here is a quick summary of what we will be studying tomorrow.
Paul's Return to Antioch and Journey to Ephesus (18:18-23):
- After spending considerable time in Corinth, Paul, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila, set sail for Syria. Before leaving, Paul had his hair cut in Cenchreae due to a vow he had taken.
- They arrived in Ephesus, where Paul preached in the synagogue. Though the Ephesians wanted him to stay longer, he declined but promised to return if God willed.
- Paul then traveled to Caesarea, greeted the church there, and went down to Antioch.
- After some time, he set out on his 3rd missionary journey, traveling through the region of Galatia and Phrygia.
Apollos in Ephesus (18:24-28):
- A Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent speaker and knowledgeable in the Scriptures, though he only knew the baptism of John.
- Priscilla and Aquila heard him speak boldly in the synagogue and took him aside to explain the way of God more accurately.
- Apollos then went to Achaia, greatly helping those who had believed through grace, powerfully refuting the Jews in public, and proving through the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.
Paul in Ephesus (19:1-10):
- Paul returned to Ephesus and found some disciples who had only received John's baptism. He explained the full message of Jesus, and they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
- When Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.
- Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God. When some became obstinate and refused to believe, Paul left.
- Paul continued teaching daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years so that all the Jews and Greeks in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.
