“24 A Jew named Apollos, a native Alexandrian, an eloquent man who was powerful in the use of the Scriptures, arrived in Ephesus. 25 This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught the things about Jesus accurately, although he knew only Johns baptism. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. After Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him home and explained the way of God to him more accurately. 27 When he wanted to cross over to Achaia, the brothers wrote to the disciples urging them to welcome him. After he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public, demonstrating through the Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah.”

Acts 18:24-28

==

There are several people in Scripture that are on my ‘I wish we knew more about this person’ list. John the Baptist is up at the top along with Melchizedek & Apollos is probably somewhere in my top ten. I think what is so intriguing about Apollos is his obvious passion and his desire for learning. Thos are two very admirable traits and they do serve to attract people to the message. A well spoken apologist, Apollos made an impression wherever he went for the sake of the Gospel. But, while being well-learned, he was also still teachable & that is a huge step toward his being approachable. People who are intelligent can also come off as arrogant & prideful. Apollos does not & in his humility, we learn a lot of how to engage others for the sake of Christ.

When it comes to engaging those who oppose us, we see that firm stance and vigorus refuting is totally okay. Someties, as Christians, we are under the belief that humility and meekness define us, and so to raise our voice or get excited might undermine the Gospel. On the contrary, we see Peter, Paul, Apollos, John the Baptist & countless Old Testament prophets stand firm, publicly confident, defending the faith and the Word of God. We have been marked as those who reveal the light of God’s truth to a dark and wandering world. And in this revelation, we must be sure, certain and secure. This is why it is totally acceptable to be both Christian and intelligent. This is why it is necessary for us to know what we believe and why.

Apollos turned to the Scriptures to give the answer for the hope that he had, and so should we. Listen to Peter, the fisherman who didn’t complete Rabbinical school, but at age 11-13 would have begun learning the family trade. What value does he give to knowledge and apologetics? Why do you think this is? It is important for us all to understand the ‘what’s’ and ‘why’s’ behind our faith so that we can answer well, defend well and put the knowledge of the Scriptures to work in our hearts, minds and mouths as we GoLove others in Jesus’ Name. 

1 Peter 3:13-16
“13 And who will harm you if you are deeply committed to what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be disturbed, 15 but honor the Messiah as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. 16 However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear, so that when you are accused, those who denounce your Christian life will be put to shame.”

2 Peter 1:3-11
“3 His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. 4 By these He has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them you may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world because of evil desires. 5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, 6 knowledge with self- control, self- control with endurance, endurance with godliness, 7 godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they will keep you from being useless or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 The person who lacks these things is blind and shortsighted and has forgotten the cleansing from his past sins. 10 Therefore, brothers, make every effort to confirm your calling and election, because if you do these things you will never stumble. 11 For in this way, entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be richly supplied to you.”