Discerned His Gift

Scripture: 24 Meanwhile, back in Ephesus, a Jew named Apollos made contact with the community of believers . He had been raised in Alexandria . In Alexandria, Egyptian Jews such as Philo are known for seeking to integrate Greek philosophy with their faith. Apollos was eloquent and well educated in the Hebrew Scriptures. 25 He was partially instructed in the way of the Lord, and he added to his native eloquence a burning enthusiasm to teach about Jesus. He taught accurately what he knew; but he had only understood part of the good news , specifically the ritual cleansing through baptism preached by John, the forerunner of Jesus . 26 So, when Priscilla and Aquila heard him speak boldly in the synagogue, they discerned both his gift and his lack of full understanding. They took him aside and in private explained the way of God to him more accurately and fully. 27 He wanted to head west into Achaia, where Paul had recently been , to preach there. The believers encouraged him to do so and sent a letter instructing the Greek disciples to welcome him. Upon his arrival, he was of great help to all in Achaia who had, by the grace of God, become believers. 28 This gifted speaker publicly demonstrated, based on the Hebrew Scriptures, that the promised Anointed One is Jesus. Then, when the Jews there raised counterarguments, he refuted them with great power. (Acts 18:24-28 The Voice)

Priscilla and Aquila heard the man, Apollos, speaking, and were able to see that he indeed had a gift for speaking, but also that he did not have full understanding. They then took him aside privately to do some teaching and extra explaining. How great that they not only discerned his gift, but were able to see that he needed more understanding! And how great that Apollos was able to receive what they were offering, and then was sent on to Achaia to continue to share the good news! We all need help from time to time to gain the further understanding that we might be missing. Father, thank You that there are those who are able to help us with the further understanding that we might need. Help me to listen with an open heart and mind. You are faithful to teach me, and I am thankful. AMEN God, Your way is perfect and Your promises prove true. You are a shield for me as I look to You for protection. You are my rock! Psalm 18
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