Apollos: A Model of Eloquence, Ferver, and Humility
Introduction
A. Who was Apollos? In the tapestry of the early church, few figures shine as brightly or as uniquely as Apollos. He was a contemporary of the Apostle Paul and a vital leader in the first-century Christian movement. His ministry was so impactful that some in the Corinthian church even claimed him as their primary spiritual leader (1 Corinthians 1:12).
B. His Origins We first encounter Apollos in Acts 18:24. He was a Jewish Christian born in Alexandria, Egypt. In the ancient world, Alexandria was the center of intellectual life, home to the world’s greatest library and a hub for biblical scholarship. Apollos was the product of this rigorous environment—a man of high culture and deep biblical roots.
C. The Relationship with Paul Though they were not always in the same city, Paul and Apollos were coworkers in the Gospel. Paul famously used an agricultural metaphor to describe their partnership: "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow" (1 Corinthians 3:6). Apollos excelled at nurturing the faith of those Paul had converted.
I. Apollos Was an Eloquent Man
Acts 18:24 — "Now a Jew named Apollos... came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man..."
A. A Unique Description It is fascinating to note that "eloquent" is a word the Bible rarely uses to describe preachers. While Paul admitted he was not a polished speaker (2 Corinthians 11:6), Apollos was gifted with rhetorical skill.
B. The Meaning of Eloquence The Greek term suggests not just "fancy talk," but a man who was learned and capable of reasoning. He had the ability to illustrate the Word of God, making complex truths accessible and persuasive. He used his natural talents to give "good use" to the Word of Truth.
II. Apollos Was Mighty in the Scriptures
Acts 18:24 — "...and he was mighty in the Scriptures."
A. Depth of Knowledge To be "mighty" or "powerful" in the Scriptures means Apollos didn't just know verses; he understood the heart of the text. He knew how to connect the Old Testament promises to their fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
B. Correct Handling of the Word He did not twist the texts to fit his own ideas. He practiced what Paul later commanded Timothy: "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved... who correctly handles the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). Strength in the pulpit comes from a deep foundation in the Pages of the Book.
III. Apollos Was Fervent in Spirit
Acts 18:25 — "This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit..."
A. An Active Mind and Heart The word "fervent" literally means "to boil." Apollos wasn't a cold academic; his soul was on fire. He had a mental and spiritual intensity for the things of God.
B. A Command for All Paul exhorts every believer to catch this same fire: "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord" (Romans 12:11). We must guard against a "dimmed" spirit. Let us be constant and passionate in our service, not lukewarm or indifferent.
IV. Apollos Taught with Accuracy
Acts 18:25 — "...he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John."
A. Teaching What You Know At this stage, Apollos had a "gap" in his theology—he only knew about John the Baptist's message of repentance. Yet, he was faithful to teach exactly what he knew.
B. An Encouragement to the Learner Many Christians refuse to teach because they say, "I don't know enough." But Apollos teaches us to share the little we know with accuracy and courage.
• We must teach God's laws (Exodus 18:20).
• We must teach our children (Deuteronomy 11:19).
• We must teach the "good way" (1 Kings 8:36).
• We must teach the path of God in truth (Matthew 22:16; 28:20).
V. Apollos Was a Humble Man
Acts 18:26 — "When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately."
A. Accepting Correction Imagine the scene: Apollos is an eloquent, highly educated, and popular speaker. Yet, when a tent-making couple (Priscilla and Aquila) pulled him aside to correct his theology, he listened. He didn't let his "ego" or his "education" get in the way of the Truth.
B. The Danger of Arrogance Many today refuse correction because they have "been in the church for years" or have a title. They are like Diotrephes, who loved to be first and refused to listen to anyone (3 John 1:9-10). Arrogance damages the work of God; humility builds it.
C. The Mind of Christ Apollos imitated the humility of Jesus, who was "gentle and humble in heart" (Matthew 11:29). We are called to "clothe ourselves with humility" (1 Peter 5:5; Ephesians 4:2).
VI. Apollos Defended the Word Courageously
Acts 18:28 — "For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ."
A. Vigor in Defense Apollos didn't shrink back from opposition. He used his elocution and scriptural depth to "vigorously refute" errors.
B. The Good Fight of Faith We are called to follow this example:
• Contend for the faith (Jude 3).
• Fight the good fight (1 Timothy 1:18; 6:12).
• Always be prepared to give a defense (1 Peter 3:15).
- The Good Soldier of Jesus Christ
- Three Things That Make Us Forget From Goodness
- What can lead a Person to Sin
Conclusion
Apollos is a shining example of what happens when natural talent is surrendered to the Holy Spirit. He teaches us that:
1. Talent (Eloquence) is a gift to be used for God's glory.
2. Knowledge (Scripture) must be deep and handled with integrity.
3. Passion (Fervor) keeps our service from becoming a ritual.
4. Humility is the mark of a true Greatness—the ability to be corrected.
5. Courage is necessary to defend the Truth in a world of lies.
May we, like Apollos, be willing to "water" the seeds others have planted, staying humble enough to learn and bold enough to speak.
