Acts 18
Acts 18:1-17
Digging Deeper
Acts 18 details the relationship between Priscilla and Aquila, and Paul. Priscilla and Aquila were Jewish tentmakers. They welcomed Paul into their workplace and allowed him to work as a tentmaker with them. Being able to work was critical so that Paul could continue to finance his mission to spread the Gospel. Paul mentored Priscilla and Aquila, and they were all committed to missionary work.
Paul, always on the lookout for future leaders of the church, shared that Priscilla and Aquila went so far as to risk their lives for him. Romans 16:3-4 states, “Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Jesus Christ. They once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches."
Paul modeled for Priscilla and Aquila the importance of maintaining a spiritual walk as they advanced the Gospel wherever they went. It didn't matter if they were in Rome, Corinth, Ephesus or on the road, they knew they were citizens of heaven and followers of Christ. Their lives were a testament to their faithfulness and steadfastness, and they risked everything, including their lives, because they knew the importance of sharing the Gospel and that their ultimate goal was to be faithful followers of King Jesus.
Today, as we are called to go into the world and face difficult situations, let us model our lives after people like Paul, Priscilla and Aquila, who were willing to sacrifice everything to reach neighbors and nations with the Good News.
WHAT NOT TO MISS
Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:1–17)
Strengths of Corinth:
1. Setting for ideal defense.
2. Geography.
3. Center for trade and manufacturing.
4. Isthmian Games.
5. Destination for religious pilgrims.
Paul's friends in Corinth (Acts 18:1–3)
Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla, who are tentmakers like he is.
Paul's fervor in Corinth (Acts 18:4–5)
He continually preaches the gospel to Jews and Gentiles.
Paul's foes in Corinth (Acts 18:6, 12–17)
The unbelieving Jews abuse him. (Acts 18:6)
The unbelieving Jews arrest him. (Acts 18:12)
The unbelieving Jews accuse him. (Acts 18:13–17)
Paul's fruit in Corinth (Acts 18:7–8)
Many are saved, including Crispus, the leader of the Jewish synagogue.
The Father's faithfulness in Corinth (Acts 18:9–11)
God himself reassures Paul in a vision: “Don't be afraid! Keep preaching, for I have many people in this city!"
Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
LIFE APPLICATION
Paul was always looking for someone to partner with him in ministry and support him in the good times and the difficult times. This week, be open to the people God puts in your path who could assist you as you serve God and others. Additionally, look for ways to help and encourage someone in ministry who might need your support.
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Describe someone who has been a great partner with you and share why you value their relationship.
What situations occurred between Paul and the Jews in Acts 18?
In what ways, in Acts 18, do we see Paul's mission to spread the Gospel confirmed by God?
What characteristics does Paul show in Acts 18 as he shares the Gospel and disciples believers?
Share how you feel God can use you in the situation that he has placed you in.
DAILY DEVOTIONAL BIBLE PASSAGES
Day 1: Preaching the Gospel-1 Corinthians 9:16; Colossians 1:23; Romans 10:15
Day 2: Opposition to the Gospel-1 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Peter 3:14; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Day 3: Encouragement-John 16:33; Philippians 4:6-7; Romans 8:28
Day 4: Teaching-Titus 1:9; 2 Timothy 4:2-4; Proverbs 4:2
Day 5: Reaching Neighbors and Nations-Mark 13:10; Galatians 3:8; Philippians 2:10-11
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, during this week I ask that you give me boldness and wisdom. Lord, I ask for boldness as I share the Gospel and that You will provide me with the words and opportunities to share, as well as protection from evil and from those who oppose me. Give me the wisdom to see other believers who can partner with and encourage me as I serve you and others. May I be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit to bring the Gospel to neighbors and nations that urgently need to hear the Good News. Let me remember that “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
