This
devotional is based on Acts 18 that is read in accordance with the Revived by
His Word initiative of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.
I was drawn to trio of Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos in
this text; intrigued at how with Apollos' great potential he was taken under
the wings of Aquila and Priscilla and groomed for a more fulsome ministry in
the Church. Having laboured over the thought that this sort of mentorship is so
needed today - not excluding aiding young ones of promise to access the benefit
of our formal educational offerings - I am the more convinced that we need
emulate the example of this committed couple in ministry.
The name Apollos is of Greek origin and means
"destroyer, or one that destroys." It seems to be a variation of
Apollo, who in Greek (and Roman) mythology is the god of prophecy, medicine,
music, art, law, beauty, poetry, light and wisdom. Apollos' profile seems to
more so fit this bill - contrary to what his name actually means. Context would
however aid us in extracting some sense from this seeming conflict of terms.
Imagine that being filled with the Holy Spirit, competent in
Scripture, and endowed with eloquence of speech (in line with the meaning of
Apollo) that Apollos is equipped as terrible destroyer of Satan's kingdom as he
tears down the bars and fenced walls of ignorance that have held people captive
to the vices of the Devil.
As we look in our local churches today we should seek to
reach individuals where they are and do our best to aid in their empowerment
for ministry. Is there a vibrant education fund in your local church? How
seriously do we take this matter of mentorship. Mind you, it's not just about
money; it's also about modeling appropriate behaviour, befriending the young,
and just simply loving everyone into the Kingdom. The existence of such a fund
however is a key indicator of how seriously we take supporting the mission of
the Church.
Father, thank you for the inspiration of Priscilla and
Aquila who were willing to support young Apollos. Thank for the demonstration
of humility of Apollos who didn't think he knew it all, but allowed himself to
be helped. Today I ask that that situation be repeated many times over in our
experience we pray, in Jesus' name, amen.
To read
and/or listen to Acts 18 and to read other related blogs, please click here.
Photo Credits: Click here
No comments:
Post a Comment