Apollos was characterized by many as a “learned and eloquent Jew from Alexandra in Egypt” and an influential leader in the early church. He was well-versed in the Old Testament. Apollos was a fervent following of John the Baptizer who taught him accurately regarding the things of the Lord. To encapsulate who Apollos actually was, he was a gifted and persuasive preacher and apologist [1] in the early church who was more than willing to be taught. Because of his natural talent to communicate, Apollos is thought to be one of the possible candidates as the unknown author of the Book of Hebrews.
As we’ve already learned, Priscilla & Aquila were strong believers who were followers of the Apostle Paul. Amid fierce Christian persecution the couple fled to Corinth to settle and once again practice their trade, which was tent-making. They happened to hear Apollos preach when he visited Corinth and liked what he had to say. After speaking with Apollos they realized he hadn’t learned the entire story. His ends with John the Baptizer and not Christ. Priscilla & Aquila took Apollos aside and instructed him regarding Christ’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection and exactly what all that meant to mankind. Deeming it as true, Apollos embraced their teaching and adjusted his preaching accordingly.
Apollos became so popular with certain members of the Corinthian church that they began to follow HIM, rather than adhere to his teaching. This was none of Apollos doing. He was humble and never accepted any personal accolades. All glory is meant to be for God and Him alone. In an effort to steer the congregation back to godly preaching and teaching, Paul wrote a letter to the four groups that had broken out. They were those following Apollos, those who followed Peter, those who followed Paul and those who followed Christ. Paul deftly explained that he was like the one who planted seeds while Apollos was the one who watered what was already planted. It would appear that this pretty much solved their problem because we don’t hear about this issue rising up again in Corinth.
In summary, Apollos was a man of letters with a zeal for the Lord and a talent for preaching. He labored in the Lord’s work, aiding the ministry of the apostles, and faithfully building up the church. His life should encourage each of us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord” (2 Peter 3:18) and to use our God-given gifts to promote truth.
Up next is a look at Herod Agrippa II. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary & https://www.gotquestions.org/who-Apollos.html
[1] “A person who argues in defense or justification of something, such as a doctrine, policy, or institution.” apologist. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved January 27, 2024, from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/apologist
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