In Acts 18, Paul ministers in the Las Vegas of ancient Greece, struggles with and overcomes fear (what, the Apostle Paul experienced fear?), finds ministry partners in Priscilla and Aquila, and launches into his third missionary journey. This chapter shows that every place and every person can be redeemed, that we often fight fear and overwhelm the wrong way, and that we need each other in the work of ministry. Here’s that sermon.
Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own.
Outline:
- What Happens in Corinth
- A Spiritual Antidepressant
- A Mysterious Mistrial
- The Third Journey
Key Takeaways:
- A brief history of ancient Corinth.
- The ministry of Priscilla and Aquila, and Paul as a tentmaker.
- The startling fact that Paul was afraid and tired, and how Christ encouraged him.
- How God, once again, uses Roman officials to further the kingdom of God.
- The appearance of Apollos, and an example of Christian discipleship we should follow.