The Ministry of Apollos: A Model of Fervent, Teachable Service
In the sacred narrative of the early church, among the many dedicated servants of God, the figure of Apollos stands out as a remarkable example of fervent spirit, profound scriptural knowledge, and, crucially, a teachable heart. His ministry, though perhaps less extensively chronicled than that of Peter or Paul, offers invaluable lessons for all who aspire to serve the Lord. Introduced in the book of Acts 18, Apollos emerges as a powerful orator and a diligent student of God's Word, whose path was uniquely shaped by divine providence and the humble instruction of fellow believers.
His Background and Initial Fervour
The Holy Spirit, through Luke, provides an insightful introduction to Apollos:
And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
Born in Alexandria, a renowned center of learning and philosophy in the ancient world, Apollos was evidently well-educated and articulate. The text describes him as "an eloquent man," possessing a gift for persuasive speech. More significantly, he was "mighty in the scriptures," indicating a deep and comprehensive understanding of the Old Testament. This foundation in God's written Word was undoubtedly the bedrock of his powerful preaching.
Furthermore, Apollos was characterized by a "fervent in the spirit" (Acts 18:25), signifying a zealous and passionate devotion to God. He spoke and taught diligently the things of the Lord, demonstrating a profound commitment to proclaiming what he knew. However, despite his eloquence, scriptural knowledge, and spiritual fervour, his understanding of the Christian message was incomplete. The scripture states, "knowing only the baptism of John" (Acts 18:25). This suggests that while he understood repentance and the coming Messiah, he had not yet been fully instructed in the person and work of Jesus Christ, particularly regarding His death, resurrection, and the subsequent outpouring of the Holy Ghost.
The Crucial Role of Priscilla and Aquila
It is at this juncture that the ministry of Apollos intersects with the vital role of Priscilla and Aquila, a godly couple who were themselves faithful co-labourers with the Apostle Paul. Having heard Apollos preach in the synagogue at Ephesus, they discerned the sincerity of his heart and the power of his message, yet also recognized the gaps in his theological understanding. Their response is a profound lesson in biblical discipleship:
And when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
This verse highlights several critical principles:
This episode beautifully illustrates that even the most gifted and zealous individuals can benefit from further instruction and discipleship. It underscores the importance of every believer, regardless of perceived status or gifting, being open to learning and growing in the knowledge of God.
His Powerful Ministry in Achaia
Armed with a more complete understanding of God's way, Apollos desired to minister in Achaia, particularly in Corinth. The Ephesian brethren, recognizing his gifts and newfound clarity, provided letters of commendation:
And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren exhorted him, and wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:
His ministry in Achaia was exceptionally fruitful. He "helped them much which had believed through grace," indicating that his teaching strengthened and edified existing believers. His eloquent and scripturally powerful preaching was particularly effective in public debate:
For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Apollos's ability to "mightily convince the Jews" through the Old Testament scriptures was a significant asset to the early church. His mastery of the Hebrew scriptures allowed him to powerfully demonstrate that Jesus was indeed the long-awaited Messiah, fulfilling prophecy and revealing God's plan of salvation.
Apollos and the Corinthian Church: A Study in Unity
The impact of Apollos's ministry in Corinth, while positive in terms of evangelism and edification, also unintentionally became a source of division. The Apostle Paul, in his first epistle to the Corinthians, addresses the factions that had arisen, where some claimed allegiance to Paul, others to Apollos, and still others to Cephas or Christ (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul vehemently corrected this carnal mindset, emphasizing that both he and Apollos were merely servants through whom the Corinthians had believed:
Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
Paul beautifully illustrates their complementary roles, not as rivals, but as co-labourers in God's field:
I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
This metaphor highlights that while different individuals have different roles in ministry (planting the initial seed of the gospel, nurturing it with further teaching), it is God alone who brings about spiritual growth and fruit. Neither the planter nor the waterer is anything in themselves; their effectiveness comes solely from God. Paul stresses that ministers are "labourers together with God" (1 Corinthians 3:9), and that believers belong to Christ, not to any human leader (1 Corinthians 3:22).
Despite the carnal divisions among the Corinthians, there is no evidence of animosity or rivalry between Paul and Apollos themselves. Paul consistently speaks of Apollos with respect and affection. In 1 Corinthians 16:12, Paul mentions his desire for Apollos to visit Corinth, but notes that Apollos felt it was not God's will at that time, again indicating mutual respect and no friction between them. Later, in Titus 3:13, Paul instructs Titus to "bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them," demonstrating continued care and concern for his fellow minister.
Lessons from the Ministry of Apollos for Today
The life and ministry of Apollos offer timeless principles for believers and those in ministry:
- The Value of Eloquence and Scholarship: Apollos's natural gifts and diligent study were powerfully used by God. While spiritual gifts are paramount, God can certainly use and sanctify natural abilities and intellectual rigour for His glory.
- Fervour Must Be Tempered with Truth: His "fervent spirit" was commendable, but it needed to be grounded in a "more perfect" understanding of God's way. Zeal without knowledge can lead to error.
- Humility and Teachability are Paramount: Perhaps the most striking lesson is Apollos's willingness to be taught by Priscilla and Aquila. For those in leadership, this exemplifies the importance of remaining humble and open to correction and further instruction, regardless of one's experience or gifting.
- The Necessity of Discipleship: The role of Priscilla and Aquila underscores the ongoing need for believers to disciple one another, patiently and lovingly guiding each other into a deeper understanding of God's Word.
- Unity in Ministry: The relationship between Paul and Apollos models how different ministers, with different gifts and styles, can work together harmoniously, focusing on God's increase rather than personal renown. The focus must always be on Christ, not on the instruments He uses.
- Mighty in the Scriptures: Apollos's ability to "mightily convince" through the scriptures reminds us of the power of God's Word. A deep knowledge and faithful exposition of the Bible remain central to effective ministry.
Conclusion
Apollos was a man divinely gifted, deeply committed, and profoundly used by God. His journey from knowing "only the baptism of John" to becoming a powerful expounder of Christ, perfected through the humble instruction of Priscilla and Aquila, is a testament to God's grace and the transforming power of truth. His ministry, marked by eloquence, scriptural depth, and a fervent spirit, yet tempered by humility and teachability, serves as an enduring model for all who seek to faithfully serve the Lord Jesus Christ. His story reminds us that while some plant and others water, it is always God who gives the increase, and that true Christian service is characterized by unity, humility, and an unwavering focus on the glory of our Saviour.