By Robert Olsen, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
TOGETHER
Acts 18:1–11,18–21
Build Relationships (1–4)
After leaving Athens for Corinth, Paul encountered a Christian couple — Priscilla and Aquila. They, like Paul, were tentmakers by profession. On the Sabbath days, Paul would go to the synagogue to reason with the worshippers there, trying to convince them of the truth of the gospel. It is assumed that during the week, Paul worked at his profession.
This shows that quite often, ministry involves what is often considered mundane work; Paul had to have a job in order to support himself. But in God’s Kingdom, there is no mundane work.
All work that we do, we do to the best of our ability for the glory of God. (See Col. 3:17, 23.) Many times in ministry today, pastors and missionaries have jobs aside from preaching and ministering to the congregation.
This allows the pastors to not have to worry about earning enough money from the congregation, but it also provides opportunities for ministry outside of the walls of the church. Historically, missionaries quite often had to have a trade in order to support themselves far from home. It is only since the 1800s that we began to see missionaries supported from their home country.
Share the Gospel (5–11)
Once Timothy and Silas arrived, Paul was able to devote all of his attention to preaching to the Jews in the city. Once the Jews became abusive, Paul turned his attention to the Gentiles. Through Paul’s discussions and ministry, the synagogue ruler Crispus and his family were saved, as were many of the Corinthians.
This shows the value of dialogue. The internet has provided many good videos of Christians debating various non-Christians. The arguments they make may not impact the one with whom they are debating, but these conversations are often invaluable for other believers who hear them and are encouraged.
They also provide answers to seekers who are looking for meaning in their lives, and hearing the gospel in contrast to the opposing view can lead them to accept the gospel.
When we share the gospel or have meaningful Christian conversations with others, even if we don’t see any impact, we do not know who might be around to hear.
This should be an encouragement to us that God uses our circumstances in the lives of others even when we don’t see it. It should encourage us to be diligent in living in a godly manner with seasoned speech to help others see the power of the gospel.
Follow God’s Lead (18–21)
Paul left for Ephesus along with Aquila and Priscilla, who probably came to the city for business purposes. Once they arrived, Paul went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews. They were interested in carrying on the conversation into the following days, but Paul needed to leave for Caesarea and said he would come back later if it was God’s will.
It is interesting to note how Paul did not remain to speak with the Jews further because he apparently had other business to take care of. There are times in our lives when we have to trust the providence of God. God is the One who saves; it is our job to be ready to share the gospel when and where we can.
Sometimes we may have a gospel conversation with someone and then have to leave, never seeing them again. We must do what we can in our circumstances and hope that the conversation we had helps move the person to accept the gospel.
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