MTPJ 15-21 Juni 2025 | Kisah Para Rasul 18:18-28 | PERAN SUAMI ISTRI MENGAJAR TENTANG JALAN ALLAH |

Summary

In this sermon, the preacher reflects on Acts 18:18-28, highlighting the Apostle Paul's journey and ministry. Despite challenges, Paul stays committed to spreading the Gospel, with God's guidance and protection. The story also introduces Apollos, an eloquent preacher who, after receiving guidance from Aquila and Priscilla, grows in his understanding of Christ's teachings. The message emphasizes the importance of evangelism, mutual support among believers, and reliance on God’s will. The preacher encourages everyone to continue spreading the Gospel and supporting each other, as seen through the example of Paul and his companions.

Takeaways

• 😀 God is pleased to meet His congregation and blesses them with His word.
• 🙏 The importance of God's word is emphasized, urging the congregation to reflect on it and pray for guidance.
• 📖 The scripture passage from Acts 18:18-28 is shared, detailing the Apostle Paul's ministry and travels.
• ✈️ Paul's journey in spreading the gospel took him through various regions, such as Corinth, Ephesus, Caesarea, and Antioch.
• 🤝 Paul’s ministry is supported by fellow servants like Aquila and Priscilla, who helped spread God's word.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Aquila and Priscilla play a crucial role in mentoring Apollos, helping him better understand the way of God.
• 📜 Apollos, though eloquent and knowledgeable in scripture, initially only knew the baptism of John, requiring further instruction on Jesus' teachings.
• 💪 God's word continues to move forward despite challenges, and those who spread it are protected and supported by God.
• 💬 The church and its servants are called to never stop preaching, boldly sharing the truth of Jesus' message from the scriptures.
• 🌍 The Great Commission, to spread the gospel to all nations, is reinforced as the ultimate purpose for all believers.
• 🎉 The month of June marks the 194th anniversary of the preaching of the Gospel and Christian Education in Tanah Minasa, reminding everyone to be active in spreading the word.

Q & A

What is the primary theme of the passage from Acts 18:18-28?

The passage highlights Apostle Paul's missionary journey, his encounters with different people, and the spread of the gospel. It emphasizes God's guidance and the importance of preaching the Word of God despite challenges.

Why did Paul shave his head in Engkreya?

Paul shaved his head in Engkreya as a vow he had taken, likely a Nazarite vow, which was a Jewish custom associated with dedication to God.

What role did Aquila and Priscilla play in Paul's ministry?

Aquila and Priscilla were companions and fellow tentmakers who supported Paul's ministry. They stayed in Ephesus to continue the work, and also helped Apollos understand the complete message of the gospel.

Why did Paul not stay longer in Ephesus despite the people's request?

Paul chose not to stay in Ephesus, as he felt led by God to follow His will. He promised to return if God willed, showing his reliance on God's guidance.

Who was Apollos, and what was his significance in the passage?

Apollos was a Jewish man from Alexandria, known for his eloquence and knowledge of the scriptures. Though he taught about Jesus, he only knew the baptism of John. Aquila and Priscilla taught him the fuller gospel, and he became an effective evangelist in Achaia.

What is the difference between John the Baptist's baptism and the teaching of Aquila and Priscilla?

John the Baptist's baptism emphasized repentance and preparation for the coming Messiah, while Aquila and Priscilla taught Apollos the complete message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, which included grace, love, forgiveness, and eternal life.

How did the disciples in Ephesus support Apollos' ministry in Achaia?

The disciples in Ephesus supported Apollos by writing a letter of recommendation to the believers in Achaia, urging them to welcome him. This facilitated Apollos' continued ministry.

What lessons can we learn from Paul and Apollos' unwavering commitment to preaching the gospel?

We learn that regardless of challenges and opposition, one must remain faithful to God's calling. Both Paul and Apollos were diligent in sharing the gospel, even when faced with rejection or misunderstanding.

What does the passage teach about the role of the congregation in evangelism?

The passage teaches that the congregation plays a vital role in supporting evangelism, not only by receiving the Word but also by actively helping and encouraging others, such as sending Apollos to Achaia with their blessing.

How does this passage encourage individuals in their personal faith and ministry?

The passage encourages individuals to depend on God's guidance, remain diligent in their service, and work in unity with others in the faith, just as Aquila, Priscilla, Paul, and Apollos did. It emphasizes that evangelism and ministry are collaborative efforts.