Leadership through Discipleship #24

Apollos, The Power of Apologetics

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;" (1 Peter 3:15).

Apollos rose from obscurity to become a noted disciple and a strong defender of the faith in Jesus Christ. He was a Jew born in Alexandria, Egypt, who was trained by the best scholars of his day. In the introduction to this disciple in the book of Acts (18:24-28), he is recognized as an eloquent speaker who was “mighty in the Scriptures.” Apparently he had an unusual grasp of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings—the sacred text of the Jews. However, his knowledge concluded with the ministry of John the Baptist. It was Aquila and Priscilla who took him aside and explained to him “the way of God more accurately,” bringing him to an understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of many of the Scripture’s prophecies.

It is amazing that a man with the knowledge of Apollos was humble enough to listen to two passionate people who shared their faith in Jesus. From the text it appears that he was a ready listener and immediately embraced the teaching of Christ. In a short time it is said, “He vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 18:28). Apparently he shortly became an apologist for the Christian faith. He applied his rhetorical talents and his vast understanding of Scripture to make a defense to his new found faith.

It is apparent that Apollos continued to grow in his discipleship and his leadership. He emerged as an influential leader in the church at Corinth. In several references in Paul’s letter to this church, he speaks of Apollos, Cephas (Peter), and himself. He wrote, “Each of you says, ‘I am of Paul,’ or ‘I am of Apollos,’ or ‘I am of Cephas,’ or ‘I am of Christ’” (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul condemned the factions that emerged in the church, each declaring their allegiance to one of these mentors, saying “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:5-6).

Apollos gave us an example of one who was always “ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” He refuted false doctrine and boldly preached Jesus Christ, as the fulfillment of Scripture.

The example to us today is expressed in Paul’s instruction to Timothy, “Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you” (2 Timothy 1:13-14 NLT).