Acts Chapter 18
Do Not Be Afraid, But Speak, And Do Not Keep Silent
Paul’s preaching work had been fraught with opposers. He experienced verbal and physical harm. He must have feared for his own safety at times (1 Cor 2:3), for even the LORD had spoken to calm him and assure him (Acts 18:9-10).
Paul gathered his courage and continued boldly in the ministry (1 Cor 2:2), reasoned with, and persuaded both Jews and Gentiles in the synagogue every Sabbath. Paul had remained in Corinth for 1.5 years, that works out to be 78 Sabbaths of discourse with those who came to the synagogues to worship. Paul would probably have planned many topics of discussion, structured and paced his teaching, and answered many doubts raised by those who came to hear him explain the gospel.
Without a strong internal motivation, an unwavering focus on God’s commission, and spiritual wisdom (1 Cor 2:1-16), I believe it would be almost impossible for our pioneering workers to excel in the ministry. This applies to us as workers of God today. We must be certain of whom we believe in, and why we are doing this.
Despite having to shoulder the varied and adverse reactions of people who chose not to believe in Jesus Christ, Paul had not only moved on to persuade and convince many new believers (Acts 18:8), he had also found time to train co-workers like Timothy, Aquila and Priscilla the ropes of the ministry.
We have much to learn from Paul’s boldness and unselfish attitude in service.
Praying that We May Perfect What Is Lacking in Our Faith
About the time that Paul was in Corinth, Timothy also came from Thessalonica in Macedonia, to Corinth (Acts 18:5, 1 Thess 3:2), bringing with him good news of the faith and love of the believers there (1 Thess 3:6). Paul had been greatly encouraged (Acts 18:5).
However, Paul did not stop there with the believers in Thessalonica. He wrote to commend them and also to encourage them. He prayed for them everyday, that they may “perfect what is lacking in their faith” (1 Thess 3:10).
This example teaches us to always examine ourselves. Our faith in God and love for others is an ongoing process. It is not completed yet. We need to be aware of our spiritual state, what we still lack, and then work on our lack.
May God guide us.
