After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He 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. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. (Acts 18:23-26)
Jesus commanded us to make disciples of all nations. We should look to Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla to see what makes discipleship successful. Paul taught about Jesus through Scripture.
Many believe that God created the universe and everything in it but also believe they are a minute part of creation so God doesn’t care about them individually. We must know Scripture to realize the error of that thinking.
When we receive Jesus as our Savior, we become a child of God. (John 1:12) God loves you more than your own parents do because we aren’t able to love as perfectly as God. Real love isn’t our love for God, but his love for us. God sent his Son to be the sacrifice by which our sins are forgiven. (1 John 4:10)
God speaks to us through thoughts and nudging. He stands at the door of our hearts and knocks. If anyone hears his voice and opens the door, he will come into that person’s life and eat with them. (Revelations 3:20) God wants a personal relationship with us, face to face, sitting at our table. When we seek God, have faith, and draw near to Him, He will reward us. (Hebrews 11:6) He wants you to cast your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
We are more apt to follow God when we know he loves us, sacrificed his Son, wants a personal relationship, solves our problems, and rewards us. Knowledge of Scripture makes discipleship successful.
Priscilla and Aquila didn’t reprimand Apollos for not telling people the whole truth about Jesus. Apollos didn’t know about Jesus’ sacrifice or resurrection. Priscilla and Aquila took Apollos into their home and explained the way of God more adequately. Presenting Jesus lovingly also makes discipleship successful.
Father, I praise You for loving me. Thank you for taking my problems and solving them and for Your many gifts. Help me be so grateful that I invite others into my home and show them your perfect love. In Christ’s name I pray. Amen.