Acts 18:26

KJV

And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto [them], and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G5037} he {G3778} began {G756} to speak boldly {G3955} in {G1722} the synagogue {G4864}: whom {G846} when {G1161} Aquila {G207} and {G2532} Priscilla {G4252} had heard {G191}, they took {G4355} him {G846} unto them, and {G2532} expounded {G1620} unto him {G846} the way {G3598} of God {G2316} more perfectly {G197}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He began to speak out boldly in the synagogue; but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the Way of God in fuller detail.

Berean Standard Bible

And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him in and explained to him the way of God more accurately.

American Standard Version

and he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more accurately.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 18:26 captures a pivotal moment in the early church's development, highlighting the spiritual growth of Apollos, an eloquent and scripturally astute preacher. Though zealous and accurate in what he knew, Apollos's understanding of Christianity was incomplete, limited to John's baptism. This verse beautifully illustrates the humble and effective discipleship of Aquila and Priscilla, who, recognizing both his gifts and his theological gaps, privately took Apollos aside to explain "the way of God more perfectly," equipping him for even greater ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of Paul's second missionary journey, though it focuses on the independent ministry of Apollos. Immediately prior, [Acts 18:24-25](/acts/18-24-25 "Acts 18:24-25 - Apollos's Initial Ministry") introduces Apollos as a "certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures." It notes his fervent spirit and accurate teaching concerning Jesus, but crucially adds that "he knew only the baptism of John." This sets the stage for Aquila and Priscilla's intervention, which follows directly. The subsequent verses in [Acts 18:27-28](/acts/18-27-28 "Acts 18:27-28 - Apollos's Ministry in Achaia") demonstrate the profound impact of their teaching, as Apollos then travels to Achaia and powerfully refutes the Jews, proving Jesus to be the Christ. The narrative flow emphasizes the importance of complete theological understanding for effective evangelism and discipleship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of [Acts 18](/acts/18 "Acts 18 - Paul's Ministry in Corinth and Ephesus") unfold in Ephesus, a prominent city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its intellectual and religious diversity, including the temple of Artemis. Alexandria, Apollos's birthplace, was a major center of Hellenistic Judaism and scholarship, likely influencing his eloquence and deep knowledge of the Old Testament. The synagogue served as the primary venue for Jewish worship and teaching, where Apollos would have preached. Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish Christian couple, were tentmakers who had previously hosted Paul in Corinth after being expelled from Rome by Claudius's decree ([Acts 18:1-3](/acts/18-1-3 "Acts 18:1-3 - Paul Meets Aquila and Priscilla")). Their presence in Ephesus and their willingness to teach a prominent speaker like Apollos reflect the decentralized and organic nature of early Christian discipleship, often occurring in homes and among lay believers.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. It powerfully illustrates **discipleship and mentorship**, showing how mature believers like Aquila and Priscilla invested in the spiritual growth of a gifted but incomplete disciple like Apollos. It highlights the crucial theme of **humility in learning**, as Apollos, despite his eloquence and scriptural prowess, humbly received instruction, demonstrating an openness to deeper truth that allowed him to become an even more powerful advocate for Christ ([Acts 18:28](/acts/18-28 "Acts 18:28 - Apollos's Powerful Ministry")). The phrase "the way of God" points to the developing understanding of **Christian doctrine and the gospel**, emphasizing that while Apollos knew about Jesus, he lacked a full grasp of the implications of Jesus' death, resurrection, and the role of the Holy Spirit, which were central to the apostolic message. Furthermore, the prominent mention of Priscilla, sometimes even before Aquila, underscores the significant and active **role of women in early Christian ministry and teaching**, challenging traditional gender roles and highlighting their spiritual authority and contribution.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **speak boldly (Greek, _parrhēsiázomai'_):** From _parrhesia_, meaning "all speech" or "freedom of speech," this verb signifies speaking with openness, confidence, and courage, often publicly and without fear. Apollos's boldness in the synagogue indicates his conviction and unreserved proclamation of what he understood about Jesus, even if his understanding was not yet complete. This boldness was a hallmark of early Christian preaching, as seen in the apostles' prayers for it in [Acts 4:29](/acts/4-29 "Acts 4:29 - Prayer for Boldness").
* **expounded (Greek, _ektíthēmi'_):** This verb means "to set forth," "to explain fully," or "to declare." It suggests a thorough and systematic presentation of information. Aquila and Priscilla didn't just add a few details but laid out the "way of God" comprehensively, clarifying and completing Apollos's understanding. This implies a detailed theological instruction, moving beyond a superficial overview to a deeper, more precise articulation of Christian truth.
* **more perfectly (Greek, _akribésteron'_):** This adverb is the comparative form of "accurate" or "exact." It implies that Apollos's previous knowledge was accurate as far as it went, but lacked the full precision, depth, and completeness regarding the Christian gospel. Aquila and Priscilla provided a more exact and comprehensive understanding of God's redemptive plan in Christ, likely including the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the implications of Christian baptism versus John's baptism.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue:"** Apollos, already introduced as eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures, initiates his public ministry in Ephesus. The synagogue, being the center of Jewish community life and instruction, was a natural place for him to preach. His "boldness" (Greek: _parrhēsiázomai_) indicates his conviction and unreserved proclamation of what he knew about Jesus, even if his understanding was not yet complete.
* **"whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard,"** Aquila and Priscilla, a devout and theologically mature Christian couple, were present in the synagogue and listened attentively to Apollos's teaching. Their discernment allowed them to recognize both his genuine zeal and his theological limitations, specifically his knowledge being limited to "the baptism of John" ([Acts 18:25](/acts/18-25 "Acts 18:25 - Apollos's Limited Knowledge")).
* **"they took him unto them,"** This phrase indicates a private, personal invitation. Rather than publicly correcting Apollos or shaming him, Aquila and Priscilla extended hospitality and a safe space for instruction. This act demonstrates humility, wisdom, and a pastoral heart, prioritizing Apollos's growth over public display.
* **"and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly."** This is the core action of the verse. Aquila and Priscilla "expounded" (Greek: _ektíthēmi_, "to set forth fully" or "explain") the "way of God." This phrase refers to the full revelation of God's plan of salvation through Jesus Christ, encompassing His life, death, resurrection, and the implications of the Holy Spirit's coming. The addition "more perfectly" (Greek: _akribésteron_, "more accurately" or "more exactly") signifies that they filled in the gaps in Apollos's understanding, providing a comprehensive and precise theological framework that completed his knowledge of the gospel beyond the preliminary message of John the Baptist.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative in Acts 18:26 effectively employs **Character Development** and **Mentorship as a Motif**. Apollos is presented as a dynamic character who, despite his initial strengths, is open to further growth. His willingness to be taught by a lay couple, Aquila and Priscilla, showcases his humility and sets him up for greater impact, illustrating a positive trajectory in his spiritual journey. The interaction itself serves as a powerful **Motif of Mentorship and Discipleship** within the early church. It highlights that spiritual formation is not solely the domain of apostles or ordained leaders but is a communal responsibility, where believers, regardless of formal titles, are called to invest in one another's theological maturity. The subtle **Irony** is also present: a highly eloquent and scripturally "mighty" preacher is taught by a tentmaking couple, underscoring that spiritual wisdom and insight are not limited by social status or formal training but are gifts of the Spirit.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 18:26 beautifully articulates the ongoing process of theological refinement and the communal nature of spiritual growth within the body of Christ. It underscores that even gifted individuals like Apollos require further instruction to grasp the full implications of God's redemptive plan in Jesus. The "way of God" represents the comprehensive truth of the Christian gospel, which extends beyond prophetic anticipation (like John's baptism) to the full revelation in Christ's finished work. This verse teaches us that humility is paramount for spiritual maturity, enabling us to receive correction and deeper understanding from unexpected sources. It also highlights the vital role of lay leaders and the importance of accurate, complete doctrine for effective ministry.

* [Romans 16:3-4](/romans/16-3-4 "Romans 16:3-4 - Paul's Greeting to Priscilla and Aquila")
* [1 Corinthians 3:6](/1_corinthians/3-6 "1 Corinthians 3:6 - Paul and Apollos as Fellow Workers")
* [Hebrews 6:1](/hebrews/6-1 "Hebrews 6:1 - Pressing on to Maturity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 18:26 provides a timeless model for spiritual growth and discipleship in the church today. It challenges us to cultivate a posture of lifelong learning, recognizing that no matter how much we know or how gifted we are, there is always room to grow in our understanding of God's Word and His ways. Apollos's humility in receiving instruction from Aquila and Priscilla, a lay couple, is a powerful example for all believers, especially those in leadership positions. It reminds us that God often uses ordinary people to impart extraordinary truth. We are called to be both eager learners and willing teachers, investing in one another's spiritual journeys with grace and discernment, always seeking to explain "the way of God more perfectly" to those around us. This passage encourages us to foster environments where honest theological inquiry and gentle correction are welcomed, leading to deeper faith and more effective ministry for the glory of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your faith or understanding do you sense a need to grow "more perfectly"?**
* **Who are the "Aquilas and Priscillas" in your life who have helped you grow, and how can you emulate their example in mentoring others?**
* **How can we, as individuals and as a church, create an environment where humility in learning and gentle, private correction are encouraged and received well?**

### FAQ
**What was Apollos's initial understanding of "the way of God," and why was it incomplete?**

Answer: Apollos was described as "mighty in the scriptures" and "instructed in the way of the Lord" ([Acts 18:24-25](/acts/18-24-25 "Acts 18:24-25 - Apollos's Background")), meaning he had a strong grasp of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah and taught accurately about Jesus. However, his understanding was limited to "only the baptism of John." This means he understood Jesus as the coming Messiah, the one John the Baptist prepared the way for, and he likely preached repentance and a coming judgment. His knowledge likely lacked the full theological implications of Jesus' death, resurrection, ascension, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and the significance of Christian baptism as a sign of new life in Christ, which were central to the apostolic gospel message. Aquila and Priscilla filled these crucial gaps, providing a more comprehensive and precise understanding of God's redemptive plan.

**What does the phrase "the way of God" signify in this context?**

Answer: "The way of God" (Greek: _hodos tou theou_) refers to the full, complete revelation of God's plan of salvation and righteous living as revealed through Jesus Christ. In early Christianity, "the Way" became a common designation for the Christian faith itself (e.g., [Acts 9:2](/acts/9-2 "Acts 9:2 - Saul's Persecution of The Way"), [Acts 19:9](/acts/19-9 "Acts 19:9 - Disciples of The Way")). For Apollos, it meant moving beyond a preparatory understanding (John's baptism) to embrace the full scope of the gospel, including the atoning work of Christ, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the implications for Christian life and community.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 18:26, while focusing on Apollos's growth, ultimately points to the centrality of Christ as the complete revelation of "the way of God." Apollos's initial understanding, though accurate concerning Jesus as the Messiah, was incomplete because it lacked the full scope of Christ's redemptive work. The "more perfectly" expounding by Aquila and Priscilla was not merely about adding facts but about deepening Apollos's grasp of the person and work of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of all Old Testament prophecies and the very embodiment of God's saving plan. Christ is the "way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way")), and a perfect understanding of God's way is inextricably linked to a perfect understanding of Christ's finished work on the cross and His resurrection. Without the full truth of Christ's atoning sacrifice and the power of His Spirit, any understanding of God's way remains partial, much like the shadow before the substance ([Colossians 2:17](/colossians/2-17 "Colossians 2:17 - Christ as the Substance")). Thus, Aquila and Priscilla's ministry to Apollos was a Christ-centered one, equipping him to preach the complete gospel of Jesus, who is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and the one through whom all things are reconciled to God ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 12:21

And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

Acts 14:3

Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

Hebrews 6:1

¶ Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,

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.

Ephesians 6:19

¶ And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

Ephesians 6:20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Matthew 18:3

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.