Perseverance and Divine Encouragement in Corinth

 

Summary

In our study of Acts chapter 18, we delve into Paul's missionary journey to Corinth, a city known for its wealth and immorality. After departing from Athens, Paul arrives in Corinth and meets Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers who had been expelled from Rome by Emperor Claudius. This expulsion was due to disturbances related to "Chrestus," a reference to Christ, highlighting the early tensions between Christians and the Roman authorities. Paul, sharing a trade with Aquila and Priscilla, stays with them and continues his mission by reasoning in the synagogue every Sabbath, persuading both Jews and Greeks about Jesus being the Christ.

Despite opposition and blasphemy from some Jews, Paul remains steadfast, shaking off their rejection and turning his focus to the Gentiles. This act of shaking his garments symbolizes a prophetic gesture of moving on from those who reject the message. Encouraged by a vision from the Lord, Paul is reassured not to fear but to continue speaking boldly, as God has many people in Corinth. This divine encouragement underscores the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Paul's time in Corinth is marked by significant conversions, including Crispus, the synagogue ruler, and many Corinthians who believed and were baptized. The narrative also highlights the legal protection Paul receives under Roman law, as Gallio, the proconsul, dismisses the Jewish accusations against Paul, viewing Christianity as a sect of Judaism. This legal decision allows Paul to continue his ministry without Roman interference, paving the way for the establishment of the Corinthian church.

The Corinthian church, though vibrant, later faces numerous challenges, as evidenced in Paul's letters. These letters reveal the church's struggles with immorality, division, and misuse of spiritual gifts, offering us profound insights into early church dynamics and the enduring need for apostolic guidance.

Key Takeaways:

- Divine Encouragement in Adversity: Paul's vision from the Lord in Corinth serves as a powerful reminder that God is with us, even when we face opposition. This divine assurance encourages us to speak boldly and not be silent, knowing that God has a purpose and people in every place. [01:55]

- The Power of Prophetic Gestures: Paul's act of shaking his garments is a profound non-verbal message, illustrating the seriousness of rejecting the gospel. It challenges us to consider how we respond to God's message and the consequences of turning away from His truth. [12:22]

- Legal Protections and Gospel Advancement: Gallio's dismissal of the charges against Paul highlights how God can use secular authorities to protect and advance His mission. This reminds us that God's sovereignty extends over all realms, and He can use unexpected means to further His purposes. [21:37]

- The Complexity of Church Life: The Corinthian church's struggles with immorality, division, and spiritual gifts reveal the complexities of church life. These challenges call us to seek unity, holiness, and proper use of spiritual gifts, guided by apostolic teaching. [23:52]

- Historical Context and Its Impact: Understanding the historical context of Paul's ministry, such as the expulsion of Jews from Rome, enriches our comprehension of the early church's challenges. It reminds us that the gospel often advances amid societal and political upheaval. [09:27]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:33] - Paul's Arrival in Corinth
- [01:22] - Turning to the Gentiles
- [01:55] - Divine Encouragement
- [02:37] - Gallio's Judgment
- [03:22] - Prayer for Understanding
- [04:03] - Departure from Athens
- [04:57] - Corinth's History and Wealth
- [05:45] - Greek Architecture
- [06:29] - Archaeological Insights
- [07:54] - Claudius' Edict
- [08:48] - Historical References
- [09:27] - Meeting Aquila and Priscilla
- [10:08] - Tent-Making Trade
- [10:58] - Paul's Synagogue Ministry
- [11:36] - Opposition and Blasphemy
- [12:22] - Prophetic Gesture
- [13:15] - Gospel Reception in New England
- [14:01] - Paul's Move Next Door
- [14:47] - Crispus' Conversion
- [15:19] - Vision of Encouragement
- [16:10] - Paul's Human Fears
- [16:51] - Personal Testimony
- [17:34] - Encouragement to Speak
- [18:35] - Gallio's Role
- [19:15] - Historical Background
- [19:55] - Gallio and Seneca
- [20:59] - Accusations Against Paul
- [21:37] - Gallio's Dismissal
- [22:21] - Legal Protection for Paul
- [23:05] - Establishing the Corinthian Church
- [23:52] - Corinthian Church Challenges
- [24:30] - Charismatic Issues
- [25:14] - Apostolic Authority
- [25:53] - Clement's Letter to Corinth
- [26:26] - Conclusion

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Acts 18

Bible Reading:
- Acts 18:1-17

Observation Questions:
1. What was the significance of Paul meeting Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth, and how did their shared trade influence their relationship? [00:33]
2. How did Paul respond to the opposition and blasphemy he faced from some Jews in Corinth? What symbolic action did he take? [12:22]
3. What role did Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, play in the advancement of Paul's ministry in Corinth? [21:37]
4. Who were some of the key individuals in Corinth who converted to Christianity during Paul's ministry there? [14:47]

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Paul's vision from the Lord in Corinth serve as a reminder of divine encouragement in the face of adversity? What does this reveal about God's presence in challenging times? [16:10]
2. In what ways does the act of shaking his garments serve as a prophetic gesture, and what message does it convey about rejecting the gospel? [12:22]
3. How does Gallio's dismissal of the charges against Paul illustrate the concept of legal protections aiding the advancement of the gospel? [21:37]
4. What insights do Paul's letters to the Corinthian church provide about the complexities and challenges of early church life? [23:52]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition for your faith. How did you find encouragement to persevere, and what role did divine assurance play in that situation? [16:10]
2. Consider the symbolic actions you might take in your life to communicate your faith or convictions. How can non-verbal gestures be powerful in sharing the gospel? [12:22]
3. How can you recognize and respond to God's sovereignty in unexpected situations, such as using secular authorities to protect and advance His mission? [21:37]
4. The Corinthian church faced issues of immorality, division, and misuse of spiritual gifts. How can you seek unity, holiness, and proper use of spiritual gifts in your own church community? [23:52]
5. Understanding the historical context of Paul's ministry can enrich our comprehension of the early church's challenges. How can you apply this understanding to navigate societal and political upheaval in today's world? [09:27]
6. How can you ensure that you are not becoming immune to the gospel message, as mentioned in the sermon regarding New England's spiritual climate? What steps can you take to keep your faith vibrant and responsive? [13:15]
7. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to speak boldly about your faith. What practical steps can you take this week to overcome fear and share the gospel with others? [16:10]

Devotional

Day 1: Divine Assurance in Uncertain Times
Paul's experience in Corinth, as described in Acts 18, reveals the profound impact of divine encouragement during challenging times. Despite facing opposition and blasphemy from some Jews, Paul receives a vision from the Lord, urging him not to fear but to continue speaking boldly. This divine reassurance highlights the presence of God even in the midst of adversity, reminding us that He has a purpose and people in every place. The vision serves as a powerful reminder that God is with us, encouraging us to persevere and speak boldly, knowing that His plans are greater than our fears. [01:55]

Acts 18:9-10 (ESV): "And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, 'Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people.'"

Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to hear God's assurance today? How can you step out in faith, trusting that God is with you even when circumstances seem daunting?


Day 2: The Significance of Prophetic Actions
Paul's act of shaking his garments in response to the rejection of the gospel by some Jews in Corinth is a profound prophetic gesture. This non-verbal message underscores the seriousness of rejecting God's message and challenges us to consider our response to His truth. The act of shaking off the dust symbolizes moving on from those who reject the message, emphasizing the importance of focusing on those who are open to receiving the gospel. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's truth and the need to remain steadfast in our mission. [12:22]

Matthew 10:14 (ESV): "And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town."

Reflection: Is there a situation or relationship where you need to "shake the dust off your feet" and move forward? How can you focus on those who are open to receiving God's message today?


Day 3: God's Sovereignty in Secular Affairs
The dismissal of charges against Paul by Gallio, the proconsul, highlights how God can use secular authorities to protect and advance His mission. Gallio's decision to view Christianity as a sect of Judaism allows Paul to continue his ministry without Roman interference, paving the way for the establishment of the Corinthian church. This event serves as a reminder that God's sovereignty extends over all realms, and He can use unexpected means to further His purposes. It encourages us to trust in God's control over every aspect of our lives, even when it involves secular authorities. [21:37]

Proverbs 21:1 (ESV): "The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will."

Reflection: How have you seen God work through unexpected or secular means in your life? In what ways can you trust His sovereignty in your current circumstances?


Day 4: Navigating the Complexities of Church Life
The challenges faced by the Corinthian church, as revealed in Paul's letters, highlight the complexities of church life. Issues of immorality, division, and misuse of spiritual gifts reveal the need for unity, holiness, and proper use of spiritual gifts, guided by apostolic teaching. These challenges remind us of the importance of seeking guidance and wisdom in navigating church dynamics, emphasizing the need for apostolic authority and teaching in maintaining a healthy church community. It calls us to reflect on our role in fostering unity and holiness within our own church communities. [23:52]

1 Corinthians 1:10 (ESV): "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment."

Reflection: What role can you play in promoting unity and holiness within your church community? How can you use your spiritual gifts to serve and build up the body of Christ?


Day 5: Understanding Historical Context in Ministry
The historical context of Paul's ministry, such as the expulsion of Jews from Rome, enriches our understanding of the early church's challenges. This context highlights the societal and political upheaval in which the gospel often advances, reminding us that God's work is not limited by external circumstances. Understanding the historical backdrop of biblical events can deepen our comprehension of the challenges faced by the early church and inspire us to persevere in our own ministry efforts, knowing that God is at work even in difficult times. [09:27]

Acts 18:2 (ESV): "And he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome. And he went to see them."

Reflection: How does understanding the historical context of biblical events enhance your appreciation of God's work in the world? In what ways can you apply this understanding to your own ministry efforts today?

Quotes

"Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision. 'Do not be afraid but speak. Do not keep silent. For I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you, for I have many people in this city.' And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the Word of God among them." [00:01:55]

"But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, 'Your blood be upon your own heads. I am clean. From now on, I will go to the Gentiles.' And he departed from there and entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue." [00:12:22]

"Gallio cuts him off and he said to the Jews, 'If this were a matter of wrongdoing or of wicked crimes, oh Jews, there'd be a reason why I should bear with you. But if it's just a question of words and names and your own law, look to it yourselves. I don't want to be a judge of such matters.' And he drove them away from the judgment seat." [00:21:37]

"We have a tendency to think that the primitive, pristine, Christian church of the first century was nothing but pure saints, where Corinth was a hotbed of problems. It was Corinth where they had the scandalous problem of the incestuous man who was not subjected to discipline. It was in Corinth that Paul had to deal with the warring factions." [00:23:52]

"The Roman historian, Suetonius, mentions in his history that the decree of Claudius in 52 A.D. was provoked to get rid of the Jews because they kept stirring up all kinds of controversy related to their leader whose name Suetonius referred to as Chrestus, C-H-R-E-S-T-U-S. And that is one of the very few mentions of Jesus that survive in ancient literature outside the books of the New Testament." [00:09:27]

"And he reasoned, every Sabbath, in the synagogue and was persuading both Jews and Greeks. This is his pattern as we've seen all along. Then when Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and he testified to the Jews there in the synagogue that Jesus is the Christ." [00:11:36]

"And so Paul went next door. And again, if you go to Corinth, you will see the home of Justus is exactly next door to the synagogue. Do you remember that path? And so he said, 'He departed from there and entered the house of a certain man named Justus, one who worshiped God, whose house was next door to the synagogue.'" [00:14:01]

"Paul leaves, and the ruler of the synagogue embraces the gospel. The rest of the synagogue didn't, but the leader did. And this reminds me of the response of Nicodemus in the gospel era, who was a member of the Sanhedrin, the Sanhedrin that sentenced Jesus to death, basically, still one of their members, became a disciple of Jesus after meeting with him privately at night." [00:15:19]

"Now, why in the world would God appear to Paul of all people and say, 'Hey, Paul, don't be afraid? Don't be afraid to speak. For heaven's sake, don't keep silent.' Of all people in church history, the one who stands out as the most fearless, bold proclaimer of the gospel ever is the Apostle Paul. But remember that Paul was human, and he also had fears that plagued him." [00:16:10]

"Well, there were those in Corinth who fought against the rulers that had been appointed to be a head of the church and argued their superiority because they were so gifted with spiritual gifts. And Paul had to rebuke them in the first letter. Now, one of the most fascinating things in church history, at least to me, is at the end of the first century, the bishop of Rome, Clement, writes another letter to the Corinthians." [00:25:14]

"And so, slightly after the expulsion of the Jews from Rome, Paul comes now to Corinth, and he meets one of those Jews who had been exiled by imperial decree. And he noticed that he had something in common with Aquila and his wife Priscilla, is that they were engaged in the trade of tent-making. And this had been Paul's learned trade as a youth." [00:08:48]

"And so Paul left Athens and went hastily to Corinth. Corinth was about the same distance from Athens as Disney World is here from Sanford. And there were other parallels between the two. Corinth had been a flourishing Greek city 150 years before Paul got there, and it was then conquered by the Romans. And it lay in waste for a period of time until it was rebuilt under Roman occupation." [00:04:57]

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