CHARACTER STUDY OF APOLLOS – AN ELOQUENT PREACHER
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 18:24-28
"Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures." (Acts 18:24, NIV)
Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 1:12, 1 Corinthians 3:6, 1 Corinthians 4:6, Titus 3:13
INTRODUCTION
Apollos was a dynamic preacher and teacher in the early church, known for his eloquence, knowledge of the Scriptures, and passion for the Gospel. He played a significant role in the spread of Christianity, especially in Corinth and Ephesus. Though initially limited in his understanding, he was humble enough to receive correction, allowing God to use him even more powerfully. His life is an example of how knowledge, humility, and discipleship work together in effective ministry.
1. APOLLOS WAS A MAN OF GREAT KNOWLEDGE
a) He was well-educated and skilled in speech (Acts 18:24)
Apollos was from Alexandria, a city famous for its great learning and scholarship. He was an eloquent speaker, meaning he could communicate effectively and persuasively. His education made him a powerful force in spreading the Gospel.
b) He had a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures (Acts 18:24)
Apollos had studied the Old Testament deeply and understood God's promises. However, his knowledge was incomplete because he only knew about the baptism of John, not the full revelation of Christ.
c) He was fervent in spirit and passionate for God (Acts 18:25)
Despite his limited understanding, Apollos preached with great enthusiasm and sincerity. His passion for the Word of God made him effective, even before he had a full grasp of the Gospel.
d) He accurately taught what he knew (Acts 18:25)
Even with incomplete knowledge, Apollos taught diligently and correctly. This shows that he was a sincere teacher, committed to truth. However, sincerity alone is not enough—he needed further instruction.
e) Biblical Example: The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:27-31)
Like Apollos, the Ethiopian Eunuch was knowledgeable in the Scriptures but needed guidance from Philip to understand the full Gospel.
2. APOLLOS WAS HUMBLE AND TEACHABLE
a) He was willing to learn from others (Acts 18:26)
Despite being an eloquent and knowledgeable teacher, Apollos did not resist correction when Priscilla and Aquila taught him more about Jesus. This demonstrates his humility.
b) He accepted private correction with grace (Acts 18:26)
Priscilla and Aquila took him aside, correcting him privately rather than humiliating him publicly. Apollos listened and learned rather than becoming defensive.
c) He grew in knowledge and understanding (Acts 18:26)
After receiving further teaching, Apollos became a more complete preacher of the Gospel. This shows that even great teachers must remain open to learning and growing.
d) He continued to use his gifts for God's glory (Acts 18:27)
With his new understanding, Apollos did not stop preaching; rather, he continued with even greater effectiveness, helping believers and refuting false teachings.
e) Biblical Example: Moses accepting Jethro’s advice (Exodus 18:17-24)
Just as Moses humbly accepted Jethro’s counsel on leadership, Apollos accepted correction and became even more effective in ministry.
3. APOLLOS WAS A POWERFUL DEFENDER OF THE FAITH
a) He vigorously refuted the Jews in public debates (Acts 18:28)
Apollos was not only a preacher but also a strong debater. He used the Scriptures to prove that Jesus was the Messiah, convincing many who opposed the Gospel.
b) He encouraged and strengthened the believers (Acts 18:27)
The brethren recognised his gifting and supported him, sending letters of recommendation to other churches so that his ministry could flourish.
c) He was a key figure in the early church (1 Corinthians 1:12)
Apollos became an important preacher, mentioned alongside Paul and Peter. His ministry impacted many believers and communities.
d) He was a great help to those who believed in Christ (Acts 18:27)
Apollos did not only focus on debating; he also nurtured and strengthened the faith of new believers.
e) Biblical Example: Paul defending the Gospel (Acts 17:2-3)
Like Apollos, Paul used the Scriptures to reason with and convince people about Christ, proving that boldness and scriptural knowledge are essential for defending the faith.
4. APOLLOS WORKED IN UNITY WITH OTHER MINISTERS
a) He was not in competition with Paul (1 Corinthians 3:6)
Some believers in Corinth started dividing themselves into factions, saying, "I follow Paul" or "I follow Apollos." However, Paul made it clear that they were working together for God's kingdom.
b) He played a role in church planting and growth (1 Corinthians 3:6-7)
Paul planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. Apollos built upon the foundation that Paul laid, showing that ministry is a team effort.
c) He understood the importance of teamwork (Titus 3:13)
Paul instructed Titus to assist Apollos, showing that Apollos was a trusted co-worker in the Gospel.
d) He worked across different regions (Acts 19:1)
After his ministry in Corinth, Apollos continued travelling and preaching in various cities, spreading the message of Christ.
e) Biblical Example: Peter and John working together (Acts 8:14-17)
Like Apollos and Paul, Peter and John worked in unity, showing that true ministers of God do not compete but complement each other.
5. APOLLOS TEACHES US KEY QUALITIES FOR MINISTRY
a) The importance of knowledge and eloquence (Acts 18:24)
Apollos' effectiveness was partly due to his ability to communicate well and his deep understanding of the Scriptures. Ministers should strive to be knowledgeable and articulate.
b) The necessity of humility (Acts 18:26)
Despite his knowledge, Apollos was willing to learn and be corrected. Pride can hinder growth, but humility allows us to be used mightily by God.
c) The power of boldness in ministry (Acts 18:28)
Apollos did not shy away from public debates and boldly proclaimed the Gospel. Fear must not stop us from defending the truth.
d) The importance of working in unity (1 Corinthians 3:6-9)
Apollos did not seek personal glory but worked alongside Paul and others to build the church. Ministry is not about competition but cooperation.
e) Biblical Example: Timothy growing in ministry (1 Timothy 4:12-16)
Like Apollos, Timothy grew in his understanding and became a strong minister through mentorship and continued learning.
STRENGTHS OF APOLLOS
1. Eloquent speaker – He effectively communicated the Gospel.
2. Well-versed in the Scriptures – His deep knowledge made him persuasive.
3. Zealous for God’s work – He preached with passion and dedication.
4. Humble and teachable – He accepted correction and grew in understanding.
5. Defender of the faith – He boldly refuted false teachings.
WEAKNESSES OF APOLLOS
1. Initially had incomplete knowledge – He only knew about John’s baptism.
2. Unintentionally contributed to division – Some Corinthians wrongly elevated him over Paul.
3. Needed mentors to refine his ministry – He required guidance from Priscilla and Aquila.
LESSONS TO LEARN FROM APOLLOS
1. Be diligent in studying God’s Word – Knowledge strengthens our witness.
2. Remain humble and teachable – Even great teachers need correction.
3. Use your gifts boldly for God’s glory – Speak and serve with confidence.
4. Work in unity with others – Ministry is about building God’s kingdom, not personal fame.
5. Be open to correction and growth – Spiritual maturity requires continuous learning.
CONCLUSION
Apollos was a powerful preacher and teacher, an example of how knowledge, passion, and humility can be used for God's work. Though he started with limited understanding, his willingness to learn and his boldness in ministry made him a key figure in the early church.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, grant me wisdom and understanding of Your Word.
2. Father, make me a bold and effective witness for Christ.
3. Lord, give me a humble and teachable spirit.
4. Father, help me work in unity with others in ministry.
5. Lord, use me to defend and spread the Gospel.
