Explaining the Bible in Evangelism: Illuminating the Path to Understanding
This study focuses on the crucial aspect of explaining the Bible in evangelism, drawing lessons from the encounters of Philip with the Ethiopian eunuch, Paul's ministry in Berea, and the instruction of Apollos by Aquila and Priscilla. It examines the characteristics of individuals who need clarification, the methods employed by these early evangelists, and practical applications for our own efforts to illuminate God's Word.
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I. Case Studies of Explanation:
1. The Ethiopian Eunuch (You need to clearly explain the Evangel) - Acts 8:26-40
• Background: This man was a high-ranking official in the court of the Queen of Ethiopia, a devout worshipper who had traveled to Jerusalem. He was reading the prophet Isaiah on his return journey.
• Need for Explanation: Despite his engagement with Scripture, the eunuch struggled to understand the specific passage he was reading (Isaiah 53). He lacked the context and understanding of how it pointed to Jesus Christ.
• Philip's Approach: Prompted by the Holy Spirit, Philip approached the chariot and initiated a conversation by asking, "Do you understand what you are reading?" (Acts 8:30). Upon the eunuch's honest admission of his need for guidance, Philip "began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus" (Acts 8:35). Philip clearly explained how the Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in the person and work of Christ.
2. The Bereans (Small Bible studies needed) - Acts 17:10-12
• Background: The people of Berea received Paul and Silas' message with great eagerness.
• Need for Explanation (and Verification): While receptive, the Bereans didn't blindly accept the apostles' teaching. They diligently examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul and Silas said was true (Acts 17:11). They needed ongoing engagement with the Word to confirm and deepen their understanding.
• Paul's Approach (Implied): Paul and Silas engaged in teaching and preaching that encouraged personal Bible study. Their willingness to have their teachings scrutinized fostered a community of learners who actively sought to understand the Scriptures for themselves. This suggests a model of interactive teaching and the promotion of independent study.
3. Apollos (Needs to clarify it one by one) - Acts 18:24-26
• Background: Apollos was an eloquent and learned man, well-versed in the Scriptures. He spoke and taught accurately about Jesus, though he only knew the baptism of John.
• Need for Clarification: Apollos' understanding of Jesus and the Holy Spirit was incomplete. He needed specific points of doctrine clarified to have a fuller grasp of the Christian faith.
• Aquila and Priscilla's Approach: Instead of publicly correcting Apollos, Aquila and Priscilla "took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately" (Acts 18:26). Their approach was personal, patient, and focused on providing precise clarification on the areas where his understanding was lacking.
II. Characteristics of Individuals Who Require Clarification:
• They accept the Word of God - Acts 8:28-35, 17:11, 18:24-26: These individuals have a positive disposition towards Scripture and recognize its authority. They are not resistant to its message but may lack the necessary understanding.
• They are trying to understand the Word of God - Acts 8:28, 17:11, 18:24-26: They are actively engaged with the Bible, reading, listening, and seeking to make sense of its content. Their effort indicates a genuine desire to learn.
• They are interested in having the Word of God explained - Acts 8:30-31: They readily acknowledge their need for help in understanding Scripture and are open to receiving instruction from others.
• They are willing to have additional study - Acts 17:11, 18:24-26: They are not satisfied with a superficial understanding and are willing to invest time and effort in deeper exploration of God's Word.
III. The Approach of Philip, Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla:
• They will seek us who are open and seeking - Acts 8:28-31, 17:11 (implied by reception), 18:24-26: These evangelists were sensitive to the prompting of the Spirit and attentive to those who showed a genuine interest in the Scriptures. They met people where they were in their spiritual journey.
• They have questions - Acts 8:30, 17:11: A willingness to ask questions is a key indicator of a desire to understand. These evangelists engaged with the questions raised and used them as opportunities for teaching.
• They answered questions - Acts 8:34-35, 17:11: They didn't dismiss questions but provided thoughtful and Scripture-based answers, guiding individuals towards a clearer understanding.
• They encouraged them to study the Word of God - Acts 8:35 (by explaining the passage), Acts 17:11 (by their example and encouragement of daily examination): Their goal was not just to impart information but to equip individuals to engage with Scripture for themselves.
• They spent time individually and in small groups - Acts 8:26-40 (Philip with the eunuch), Acts 17:11 (community in Berea), Acts 18:24-26 (Aquila and Priscilla with Apollos): They tailored their approach to the specific needs of the individual or group, offering both one-on-one guidance and fostering a learning environment within a community.
IV. Using Enlightenment in Evangelism:
• Listen to find out what has been misunderstood - Acts 8:30-31, 18:24-26: Before offering explanations, it's crucial to understand the individual's current understanding and identify areas of confusion or misinterpretation. Asking questions like "What do you understand by this?" can be helpful.
• Be available to explain things that are not clear - Acts 8:31, 18:24-26: A willingness to invest time and effort in patiently explaining difficult concepts is essential. This requires humility and a servant's heart.
• Use the Scriptures - Acts 8:32-35, 17:11, 18:24-26: All explanations should be rooted in and supported by the Bible itself. Connect different passages, provide context, and show how various parts of Scripture relate to the topic at hand, always pointing towards Christ.
• Listen to find what is not understood - Acts 8:34, 18:24-26: Pay close attention to the individual's responses, questions, and non-verbal cues to discern areas where further clarification is needed. Be sensitive to their level of comprehension.
• Focus on Christ and what He is - Acts 8:35, 17:11-12: Ultimately, the goal of explaining the Bible in evangelism is to lead people to a deeper understanding of Jesus Christ – his person, his work, his sacrifice, and his Lordship. Show how the Scriptures point to him.
• Make sure the person understands clearly - Acts 8:35: Take the time to ensure that the individual has grasped the explanation. Ask clarifying questions and encourage them to articulate their understanding in their own words.
- How to Evangelize With Compassion
- 7 Privileges of the Christian Life
- 7 Attitudes Every Christian Should Have Ephesians 4:24
Conclusion:
Explaining the Bible in evangelism is a vital aspect of making disciples. By following the examples of Philip, Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla, we can effectively guide those who are open and seeking towards a clearer understanding of God's Word and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This requires attentive listening, patient teaching rooted in Scripture, a focus on Christ, and a commitment to ensuring genuine comprehension. Our aim should be to illuminate the path of understanding, leading individuals to saving faith and a deeper relationship with God through his Word.
