Congregation Bible study (30 mins.) bt chap. 20 paras. 1-7 and introduction to section 7.
Based on Acts 18:23-19:41
1, 2. a) What danger did Paul and his companions face in Ephesus?
Paul and his companions faced grave danger in Ephesus when a violent crowd, filled with confusion and shouting, gathered to defend the temple of Artemis. Two of Paul's companions were dragged by the crowd towards the city theater where shouts of: "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians." They reflected the hostility of the opponents.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
At Ephesus, Paul and his companions faced an angry crowd who accused them of endangering the worship of the goddess Artemis. Artemis was a central goddess for the Ephesians. The crowd, led by merchants financially affected by Christian preaching, dragged two of Paul's companions to the city theater, where thousands were screaming frantically.
Although many did not understand the cause of the revolt, the agitation was fueled by Satan, who attempted to stop the preaching. This episode shows how Christian teachings challenged not only religious beliefs, but also economic interests, linked to pagan sweating.
1, 2. b) What will we see in this chapter?
In this chapter we will see how Satan tried to stop the preaching work and divide the Christians of the first century. However, we learn that, thanks to the help of Jehovah and his Holy Spirit, Christians managed to overcome these attacks, strengthening the spread of God's word.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
In this chapter, Satan's various strategies for defending the work of preaching and dividing first-century Christians will be explored. From fomenting mob violence, as occurred at Ephesus, to sowing internal divisions, Satan used multiple tactics to stop the advance of Christianity.
The biblical account highlights that their efforts failed, as the word of Jehovah continued to grow in power. The Christians of that time managed to resist thanks to the support of Jehovah, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the development of spiritual qualities.
Studying these examples will highlight the importance of maintaining a strong faith, and personally striving to overcome challenges in the Ministry.
“He knew the Scriptures very well” (Acts 18:24-28)
3, 4. What did Aquila and Priscilla realize, and what did they do?
Aquila and Priscilla realized that Apollos, although eloquent and knowledgeable about the scriptures, only understood up to the baptism of John. Therefore, with humility and tact, they took him aside to explain the way of God more accurately. This shows your willingness to help others fully understand the truth.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Achilla and Priscilla, listening to Apollos in the Ephesus synagogue, noted that his teaching about Jesus was accurate, but incomplete, since he only knew the baptism of John. Despite his great eloquence, fervor and academic preparation, they did not allow themselves to be intimidated and, moved by their love for the truth, they took the initiative to help him.
Instead of correcting him in public, they took him aside to explain more precisely the more advanced aspects of God's way, probably including the importance of Christian baptism and the role of the Holy Spirit.
For his part, Apollos reacted with humility, accepting help and making adjustments to his teaching. This example highlights collaboration between Christians and the willingness to learn and teach with love and tact.
5, 6. What helped Apollos be more useful to Jehovah, and what do we learn from his example?
Apollos became more useful to Jehovah because he accepted the help of Aquila and Priscilla. They helped him better understand the scriptures, and this allowed him to boldly defend that Jesus was The Messiah. Thanks to his humility, Apollos was able to greatly help the disciples in Achaia and strengthen the faith of many.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
From his example we learn that humility allows us to improve our abilities AND be a greater blessing to the congregation. Just like Apollos, we must be willing to accept the guidance and advice of others to be more useful in Jehovah's service.
Apollos became more Useful to Jehovah by humbly accepting the instruction offered to him by Achille and Priscilla. Through this, he gained a more complete knowledge of God's purpose, and he was able to use it to help others. Later, in Achaia, he strengthened the disciples and bravely defended that Jesus was The Messiah, demonstrating his message with the Scriptures.
His humility and willingness to learn made him a great blessing to the Christian congregation, and an effective instrument for “The Word of Jehovah” to continue gaining strength.
Also, we learn that, although we have skills, experience and knowledge, they are enough if we do not cultivate humility. This quality allows us to accept corrections, learn from others and adapt to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Without humility, our qualities can lead us to pride, making us useless in serving Jehovah.
7. What example did Paul and Apollos set?
Paul and Apollos set an outstanding example of humility and collaboration. Instead of competing with each other, they worked together to strengthen congregations. Pablo recognized Apollos' good work and entrusted him with more responsibilities.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Apollos, for his part, followed Paul's instructions. Demonstrating your willingness to collaborate. Thus, they showed that humility is an antidote to the spirit of competition. How important it is to imitate his example as we work together in Jehovah's service.
Paul and Apollos set an excellent example of humility and unity in Jehovah's work. Although both were skilled teachers and outstanding leaders, they did not allow competition to arise between them.
Although some Corinthians tried to form sides by saying "I am of Paul" or "I am of Apollos" They did not encourage these divisions. Paul recognized Apollos' contribution, highlighting the value of his work, and entrusted him with more responsibilities within the congregation. For his part, Apollos respected and followed Pablo's instructions, showing a submissive and cooperative attitude.
This example of collaboration among faithful servants is an antidote to the spirit of rivalry that Satan could have used to divide Christians. Their attitude reinforces the importance of working together with humility in Jehovah's work, leaving aside personal protagonism.
ANALYSIS OF SECTION 7 - ACTS 18:23-21:17.
It is taught “publicly and from house to house”
(ACTS 20:20)
Why is it so important that we be humble and adaptable teachers? What is our primary method of preaching the good news? How do we demonstrate that God's will is more important to us than our preferences? The fascinating account of Paul's third and final missionary journey will help us answer these important questions.
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