Apollos: What do we learn from his example in the Bible? Acts 18:24-28

Apollos: A Model of Eloquence, Ferver, and Humility

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).

This sermon is part of Acts Sermon Series: Gospel Expansion Clothed with Power

-- Ads --

Introduction

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.

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, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures." While not every Christian is called to be a polished orator, we are all called to be effective communicators of God's Word. We should strive for clarity and the ability to illustrate spiritual truths in a way that resonates with those who hear.

How can we, in our own unique ways, become better at illustrating the Word of God to others in our communities? What practical steps can we take to improve our communication of biblical truths?

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 A POWERFUL MAN IN THE SCRIPTURES. ACTS 18:24

• A. Apollos was powerful in the Scriptures; he had a deep and comprehensive knowledge of them. His understanding was not superficial but profound, allowing him to engage with the Word effectively.

◦ Discussion: What does it mean to be "powerful in the Scriptures"? How can we cultivate a deeper and more impactful understanding of God's Word?

• He knew and utilized the biblical texts accurately, giving them their correct meaning and avoiding distortion. He handled the word of truth with precision and integrity (2 Timothy 2:15).

◦ Discussion: Why is it crucial to handle the Word of God accurately and avoid misinterpretation? What are some dangers of distorting Scripture?

• Let us imitate the Apostle Paul's example, who refused to adulterate the Word of God by resorting to craftiness or deceitful handling (2 Corinthians 4:2). To handle the Word of God well, diligent and careful study is essential.

◦ Discussion: What does it mean to "adulterate the Word of God"? How can we ensure that our teaching and sharing of Scripture are characterized by honesty and integrity?

• That is why we must cultivate a deep desire for the Word of God (1 Peter 2:2) and diligently occupy ourselves with its study and meditation (1 Timothy 4:13).

◦ Discussion: How can we cultivate a greater hunger for God's Word in our lives and in our churches ? What are some practical ways to "occupy ourselves" with Scripture?

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.

III. APOLLOS WAS FERVENT IN SPIRIT. ACTS 18:25

• A. Another significant quality of Apollos was that he was fervent—fervent in spirit. His engagement with God and His Word was characterized by zeal and passion.

◦ Discussion: What does it mean to be "fervent in spirit"? How does this spiritual fervor impact our service to God and our witness to others?

• The Apostle Paul exhorts us to cultivate this same fervent spirit in our service to the Lord (Romans 12:11): "Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord."

◦ Discussion: How can we maintain and cultivate a fervent spirit in our Christian walk, especially amidst the challenges and routines of daily life?

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.

IV. APOLLOS SPOKE AND TAUGHT THE WORD OF GOD ACCURATELY. ACTS 18:25

• A. Although Apollos' initial understanding was incomplete, as he only knew about John's baptism, he taught these things accurately and spoke them well. Even with limited knowledge, he conveyed what he knew with precision and clarity.

◦ Discussion: What does Apollos' example teach us about sharing our faith even when our understanding is still developing? What is the importance of accuracy even in foundational truths?

• We are called to teach:

◦ 1. The laws of God (Exodus 18:20). God's principles for righteous living.

▪ Discussion: Why is it important to teach and understand God's laws in the context of grace?

◦ 2. Let us teach our children (Deuteronomy 11:19). The responsibility of passing on faith to the next generation.

▪ Discussion: How can we effectively teach our children and young people the truths of God's Word in today?

◦ 3. We must teach the good way in which they should walk (1 Kings 8:36). Guiding others in the path of righteousness and obedience.

▪ Discussion: What does it mean to teach "the good way"? How can we practically guide others in this path?

◦ 4. Let us teach the fear of God (2 Kings 17:28). Cultivating a reverent respect and awe for God.

▪ Discussion: Why is the "fear of God" an important aspect of Christian teaching? How can we teach it in a healthy way?

◦ 5. We must teach the way of God with truth (Matthew 22:16). Conveying God's message honestly and without compromise.

▪ Discussion: What are some potential pitfalls in teaching the "way of God"? How can we ensure we teach with truth?

◦ 6. We must teach them to observe all things that Christ commanded (Matthew 28:20). The comprehensive scope of Christian discipleship.

▪ Discussion: What does it mean to teach others to "observe all things" that Jesus commanded? How can we effectively do this?

• Brethren, let us imitate Apollos, who taught the little he knew accurately and courageously. For he spoke boldly (Acts 18:26). Let us teach the little we know, but let us teach it accurately and courageously.

◦ Discussion: What encouragement can we draw from Apollos' example regarding sharing our faith with boldness and accuracy, even if our knowledge is still growing?

V. APOLLOS WAS A HUMBLE MAN. ACTS 18:26

• Apollos proved to be a very humble man. Although the explicit word "humility" is not present in this particular text, we infer it from the fact that Apollos readily accepted the correction and further instruction given to him by the tentmakers Priscilla and Aquila.

◦ Discussion: Why is Apollos' acceptance of correction from Priscilla and Aquila a strong indication of his humility?

• We must be humble when our mistakes or areas of incomplete understanding are pointed out to us, and we must willingly accept them and change our perspective or teaching accordingly. Humility profoundly characterized Jesus (Matthew 11:29): "Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." We must learn from Jesus, who was meek and humble.

◦ Discussion: How does Jesus' humility serve as a model for us in receiving correction? What are the benefits of embracing humility in our learning and growth?

• We are exhorted to be humble (Ephesians 4:2) and to clothe ourselves with humility (1 Peter 5:5). Let us not be like Diotrephes, who loved to have the preeminence and rejected apostolic authority (3 John 9-10).

◦ Discussion: What are the dangers of pride and a refusal to accept correction? How can we cultivate a spirit of humility in our interactions within the church?

VI. APOLLOS COURAGEOUSLY DEFENDED THE WORD OF GOD. ACTS 18:28

• A. Apollos courageously refuted the arguments of the Jews in public debate, powerfully proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. His conviction and boldness in defending the truth were evident.

◦ Discussion: What does it mean to "courageously refute" opposing arguments for the sake of the Gospel? How can we develop this kind of boldness?

•We are also called to engage in spiritual warfare. We must fight the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 1:18; 6:12), always being prepared to present a reasoned defense of the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15).

◦ Discussion: What are some of the "battles" we face in defending our faith today? How can we equip ourselves to present a compelling and reasoned defense of the Gospel?

What was Apollos in the Bible and what do we learn from his example?

CONCLUSION:

Apollos stands as a beautiful and inspiring example for all believers to imitate. He was a man characterized by eloquence, a deep understanding and skillful use of Scripture, spiritual fervor, accuracy in teaching, humility in receiving correction, and courageousness in defending the Word of God. May we, by God's grace, cultivate these same qualities in our lives, becoming more faithful and effective servants for His glory and honor .

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.

👉 5 Books on preaching for your improvement, Get it!

Ronaldo Gomes da Silva is a Professor of Homiletics and Education Specialist (UFF, Brazil). A recognized authority in ministerial training, his homiletical frameworks are used globally and were recently cited by the newspaperCEADEMA of State Convention (June 2025).