Commentary on Acts 18:28

Bible Verse: “For he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.”

Introduction

Acts 18:28 presents a snapshot of the ministry of Apollos, a learned man well-versed in the Scriptures. This verse highlights his fervent defense of the Christian faith and his role in proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah. Understanding this passage requires examining the broader context in which Apollos operated, his character, and the implications of his proclamation.

Apollos: A Man of God

According to Matthew Henry, Apollos was eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures, suggesting that he was not merely knowledgeable but also skilled in communicating his understanding. His background as an Alexandrian, a city known for its intellectual culture and philosophical inquiry, contributed to his articulate defense of Christianity.

Albert Barnes emphasizes the importance of Apollos’ eloquence and learning. He notes that Apollos, being well-educated, used his gifts effectively to bolster the early church. His ability to reason and present arguments was pivotal in attracting attention to the truth of Jesus as the Christ.

The Importance of Scripture

Apollos’ method of defending the faith was through the Scriptures. Adam Clarke points out that this reflects a significant principle in evangelism and apologetics. By consistently referring to the Scriptures, Apollos underlines the authority of God’s Word in establishing the identity of Jesus as the Messiah. This approach also serves as a model for modern-day apologists and preachers who seek to engage with others regarding their faith.

Public Opposition and Proclamation

Acts 18:28 shows that Apollos “vigorously refuted the Jews publicly.” Matthew Henry interprets this as a statement of boldness in the face of opposition. Apollos did not shy away from confronting his audience; rather, he engaged them directly. Such fervor is essential for anyone involved in ministry or theological debate, reminding us that a degree of boldness is necessary when proclaiming the truth of the Gospel.

Albert Barnes adds that Apollos’ public ministry and debate served to strengthen the faith of believers and challenge the assumptions of those who opposed Christ. It is crucial to engage with critics thoughtfully, reflecting a balance of conviction and wisdom.

Christ as the Fulfillment of the Scriptures

The essence of Apollos' message was that Jesus is the Christ. Adam Clarke notes this is the cornerstone of Christian faith. By showing from the Scriptures that Jesus fulfills the messianic prophecies, Apollos invites his audience to reconsider their understanding of the Messiah. This underscores the importance of teaching and preaching that leads others to recognize Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

Throughout the Book of Acts, the role of the Holy Spirit is prominent. Matthew Henry argues that Apollos, though previously only acquainted with the baptism of John, was filled with the Holy Spirit, which empowered him for his mission. This divine empowerment is essential for effective ministry and highlights that human eloquence alone is insufficient without the Spirit’s guidance.

Implications for Modern Believers

This verse brings important lessons for modern believers:

• Commitment to the Scriptures: Believers today must prioritize understanding and relying upon Scripture in teaching and defending their faith.
• Boldness in Proclamation: Like Apollos, Christians are called to engage with both supporters and opponents of the faith with conviction and clarity.
• Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Ministry should be conducted under the influence of the Holy Spirit, ensuring that we are vessels for God's work rather than relying solely on our abilities.

Conclusion

Acts 18:28 serves as an exhortation to everyone in ministry or theological study. It challenges believers to engage with Scripture diligently, communicate passionately, and rely on the Holy Spirit for effectiveness in proclaiming Christ. Apollos' example encourages us to seek knowledge while boldly declaring the truth of Jesus as the Messiah, motivating both ourselves and others towards deeper faith and understanding.