IF THE FACTS AREN'T STRAIGHT, THE MESSAGE CAN STILL BE CLEAR
- Key Verse
He [Apollos] had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. (Acts 18:25 NIV)
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Central Truth
You don't need all the answers to tell others about Jesus. By the time you get around to having all of them, it may be too late.
Reflections
My attention was drawn to the person at the end of this chapter named Apollos. He was an intelligent man who knew the scriptures (v.24). Apparently, he was a passionate speaker about Jesus. His problem though, was that the facts he knew ended at John the Baptist. He was out there preaching away, not afraid to share his faith about what he knew and understood at the time.
Thank God for the example of Priscilla and Aquila. With all of the judicial mayhem they had experienced in Corinth (v.12-17), their reaction to Apollos' teaching set a beautiful example of Christian maturity. They could have created a scene which seemed popular at that time, but they didn't. They took the time to explain to Apollos the true gospel (v.26), he listened and became a great speaker of his faith (v.27-28).
I listen in awe to believers I know who in conversation can weave the story of their relationship with Christ so effortlessly. I, for one, want to make sure I will say the right things at the right time. I also love to hear the story of a new believer. They are so excited about their new relationship with Jesus, sometimes they don't have all their facts straight, just like Apollos. But, they don't have to. Their message of belief in Jesus is clear.
Do what you can to tell others about Jesus. God will bless your work. If the facts aren't straight, the message can still be clear.
Discussion Questions
1. What are your fears in telling others of your relationship with Jesus?2. Did you have a Priscilla or Aquila in your life that helped you toward Christian maturity? Can you become that same person for someone else?
3. This week, in at least one conversation, try to weave in your relationship with Jesus and see what happens.
Michael Kirk John
April 7, 2010 08:55 AM
Dear Paul, I really enjoyed how you were drawn to Apollos and the unique description given him about only knowing of John the Baptist yet spoke of Jesus. A lot can be said about moving in the Spirit and allowing God to lead. Venturing in to the unknown at God's direction is a true adventure. There was another devotion that made mention of the martyred missionary Jim Elliott who said, "The man who will not act till he knows all will never act at all." Thank you for the great message and your being moved by the Spirit.
April 7, 2010 09:52 AM
Paul, Thank you for your encouraging words to move beyond having to be a know it all before we share our story of faith. While we are learning more about our God, all we are asked to do is share what we know. May God bless you and the rest of the Zavalneys
Angie Whitis
April 7, 2010 06:22 PM
Hello Paul, Do you remember me? I worked for Mitzi & John. Your devotional was refreshing and a reminder to be true to what I know. My journey is bittersweet in memory and I so love to share it with others. Many blessings!
Linda Knox
April 7, 2010 07:33 PM
Paul, your message this morning is very encouraging for us to be bold enough to speak for Jesus knowing that He will work the results! Thanks!
David
April 9, 2010 09:01 AM
Thanks for the encouragement. I still consider myself a baby believer, but I love to talk about Jesus and I thirst for more knowledge. Your devo inspires me even more to share the story of our Lord. Have a blessed day!