How does Acts 18:24 encourage us to use our gifts for God's glory? The Verse at a Glance “Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, an eloquent man who was mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus.” (Acts 18:24) What We See in Apollos • Native of Alexandria—his cultural background shaped unique perspectives • Eloquent—gifted communicator, clear and persuasive • Mighty in the Scriptures—deep, accurate grasp of God’s Word • Motivated enough to travel—willing to move for ministry opportunities Why This Matters for Us • God intentionally forms each believer with specific abilities (Psalm 139:13-16; Ephesians 2:10). • Skills such as eloquence, knowledge, or cultural insight are not random; they are entrusted tools. • Apollos did not bury his talents (cf. Matthew 25:14-27). He stepped into a city ready to hear truth. Using Our Gifts for God’s Glory 1. Recognize the Source – “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). 2. Sharpen the Gift – Apollos was already “mighty,” yet he later received further instruction from Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:26). – Study (2 Timothy 2:15), practice, and seek mentoring. 3. Serve Where God Opens Doors – Apollos traveled to Ephesus, then to Achaia (Acts 18:27). – Stay flexible; God may relocate or redirect you. 4. Aim for Edification, Not Self-Promotion – “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). – Gifts are platforms to point others to Christ, not to ourselves. 5. Depend on Scripture – Apollos’ effectiveness sprang from being “mighty in the Scriptures.” – Let God’s Word anchor and guide every expression of your talent. Practical Takeaways • Identify: List abilities, experiences, and passions God has woven into your life. • Equip: Enroll in a class, read quality resources, or join a ministry team to hone those gifts. • Engage: Volunteer in church, workplace, neighborhood—wherever people need the grace your gift can display. • Encourage: Spot gifts in others, as Priscilla and Aquila did for Apollos, and help them grow. • Evaluate: Regularly ask whether your use of talent is producing fruit that glorifies God (John 15:8). Scriptures that Echo the Call • Romans 12:6-8—diverse gifts exercised diligently and cheerfully • 1 Peter 4:10-11—serve “as good stewards of God’s varied grace” so “in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” • Colossians 3:17—“Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” • Matthew 5:16—let your light shine so others glorify the Father Apollos stands as a living reminder: God places gifts in us on purpose, sustains them by His Word, and expects us to invest them boldly for His glory. |
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