Acts 18:23-19:12 Third Missionary Journey begins
18:23 Paul- as one man Mission
18:24-28 Ministry of Apollos
19:01-07 Paul’ Mission at Ephesus
19:08-12 Paul ministered at Synagogue and a Hall
Acts 18:23 Paul - One man Mission
The third missionary journey of Paul began from Antioch. Unlike in his earlier trips, he had no companions now. He travelled from Antioch to Galatia, Phrygia and strengthened all the disciples. Paul was a man of mission and peoples apostles. He spent most of his time conversing with new contacts about Christ, encouraging the disciples to grow in sainthood, and looking for new mission fields. Paul was a man of prayer. His thirst for souls and interest strengthen the faith of the disciples. Paul undisturbed in mind and focused on one thing and spent for that.
Acts 18:24-28 Ministry of Apollos
An Alexandrian disciple named Apollos reached Ephesus, and he was preaching on Messiah who appeared in Christ Jesus. Apollos was a learned person, a Scriptural scholar, knew the way of the Lord but only familiar with the baptism of John. He was a bold person and presented messages with clarity to the Jews in the Synagogue. Aquilla and Pricilla were present while he preached at Synagogue. So, they spent time with Apollos and explained the baptism of the Spirit of God and the fullness of the salvation experience. Apollos became strong in the doctrines of Christ. He won the debates with the Jews over Christ as Messiah.
Acts 19:01-07 Mission of Paul at Ephesus
Paul reached Ephesus and began his discourse with twelve new believers in Christ. He had been for over and above three and half years preaching the Gospel. Paul spoke to them on the baptism of the Spirit of God. After leading the group into clear conviction in the doctrine, he baptised them in the name of Jesus. Also, he placed his hands over their heads and prayed for them to receive the Holy Spirit, immediately they received the spirit.
Acts 19:08-12 Paul ministered at Synagogue and a Hall.
Paul entered the Synagogue at Ephesus and spoke boldly, argued persuasively on the Kingdom of God for three months. Some disbelieved, created obstacles, and had malign the name of Paul and his work. So Paul took the disciples separately and had discussions in the lecture hall of Tyrannus for about two years. Paul also did signs and wonders for God. His clothes became powerful instruments in healing the sick. His aprons had the power to cast out evil spirits. Great!
Discussion:
1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a one-person mission?
2. What do you think of Apollos?
3. How to interpret the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
4. The role of signs and wonders in the present context of the Ministry?
(For further studies on the Acts of the Apostles kindly refer to this site)
