Acts 18:25

This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.

This man {G3778} was {G2258} instructed in {G2727} the way {G3598} of the Lord {G2962}; and {G2532} being fervent {G2204} in the spirit {G4151}, he spake {G2980} and {G2532} taught {G1321} diligently {G199} the things of {G4012} the Lord {G2962}, knowing {G1987} only {G3440} the baptism {G908} of John {G2491}.

This man had been informed about the Way of the Lord, and with great spiritual fervor he spoke and taught accurately the facts about Yeshua, but he knew only the immersion of Yochanan.

He had been instructed in the way of the Lord and was fervent in spirit. He spoke and taught accurately about Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John.

This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, knowing only the baptism of John:

Context

Acts 18:25 introduces us to Apollos, a dynamic and eloquent Jewish believer from Alexandria, who had recently arrived in Ephesus. This verse describes his initial state of knowledge and spiritual fervor. Though he was "instructed in the way of the Lord," his understanding of Christian doctrine was incomplete, specifically regarding the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This sets the stage for his encounter with Priscilla and Aquila, who would later "expound unto him the way of God more perfectly" (Acts 18:26).

Key Themes

  • Zeal and Fervor: Apollos exemplifies passionate dedication. His "fervent in the spirit" attitude highlights the importance of enthusiasm and zeal in serving God and proclaiming His truth. This passion made him an effective speaker and teacher, even with limited knowledge.
  • Incomplete Understanding: The verse clearly states he "knowing only the baptism of John." This illustrates that sincere faith and a desire to serve can exist alongside an incomplete understanding of Christian truth, especially concerning the full implications of Christ's death and resurrection, and the role of the Holy Spirit.
  • Diligence in Teaching: Apollos "spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord." This emphasizes the commitment and precision required in ministry and sharing the Gospel, even as one grows in understanding.
  • Readiness for Growth: Though not explicitly stated in this verse, Apollos's character, as seen in the subsequent verses, demonstrates an openness to further instruction and a humility to learn from others, which is crucial for spiritual maturity and effective ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "fervent in the spirit" comes from the Greek zeōn tō pneumati (ζέων τῷ πνεύματι), literally meaning "boiling in the spirit" or "burning in the spirit." This vividly conveys an intense, bubbling enthusiasm and zeal. While "spirit" (pneuma) can refer to the Holy Spirit, in this context, given his limited knowledge, it likely refers to Apollos's own human spirit, indicating his deep personal passion and intense dedication to the truths he knew. Paul later encourages believers to be "not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord" (Romans 12:11).

"Instructed in the way of the Lord" uses the Greek word katēchēmenos (κατηχούμενος), from which we get "catechized." It implies formal teaching or instruction, suggesting Apollos had received systematic training in basic biblical principles and the teachings of John the Baptist. "The way of the Lord" or "the Way" was an early term used to refer to the Christian faith or movement (Acts 9:2, Acts 19:9).

Practical Application

Apollos serves as an inspiring example for believers today. We are called to be fervent and diligent in our service and teaching, using the gifts and knowledge we possess to glorify God. However, like Apollos, we must also remain humble and open to continuous learning and correction. No matter how much we know, there is always more to learn about God's "way" and His truth. This verse reminds us that God can powerfully use individuals with sincere zeal, even as He provides opportunities for them to grow in deeper understanding of the full truth of Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 19:3

    And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.

  • Hosea 14:9

    Who [is] wise, and he shall understand these [things]? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD [are] right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.

  • Romans 12:11

    Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

  • Mark 12:14

    And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?

  • Acts 9:2

    And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

  • Acts 19:9

    But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

  • Acts 19:23

    And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.

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