Today's Readings: New Testament -
Luke 8:40-56 / Acts 18:18-28
Old Testament -
Psalms 30 / Exodus 19-20
Click on Text Links to Read Online
Focus Verses: Acts 18:27-28
27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.
Insight:
Apollos was from Alexandria, Egypt, the second most important city in the Roman Empire, a center of academic excellence, and home to a large Jewish population. He was very educated (v.24), a passionate speaker (v.25), and a skillful debater (v.28). He would have certainly been conversant in Western thought, Hebrew Scriptures, and dominant world-views of his day. His education and ability to communicate effectively and persuasively made him a "great help" to believers.
Response & Action:
Christians who are well-educated, critical thinkers, strong communicators, knowledgeable of scripture, and instructed in the way of the Lord Jesus, can be a great help to other believers. I am very thankful for the wonderful help I have received from intelligent and articulate people like G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, Francis Schaeffer, N.T. Wright, Dallas Willard, Darrell Bock, Ravi Zacharias, Scot McKnight, John Stott, James Sire, and many, many others. I want to grow in my understanding of the world, the scriptures, religion, philosophy, history, and theology.
O God, you know all things. All truth and understanding belong to you. Reverence for you is the beginning of wisdom. Help me to love you with all my mind. Strengthen my faith through learning, and give me wisdom and insight that I might be a great help and encouragement to others. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: 2 Timothy 2:15
15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
Resources:
Discipleship of the Mind: Learning to Love God in the Ways We Think
by James W. Sire
