How does Acts 18:26 connect with Matthew 28:19-20 on discipleship? Key Texts Side by Side • Acts 18:26: “And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained the way of God to him more accurately.” • Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Shared Heartbeat of Both Passages • Christ’s Great Commission commands proactive disciple-making: “go,” “make,” “teach.” • Acts 18:26 shows that mandate being lived out in real time: Priscilla and Aquila “take aside” and “explain.” • Both passages spotlight teaching—clarifying truth so believers grow in obedience and accuracy. Apollos Meets the Great Commission • Apollos was already “competent in the Scriptures” (v. 24) yet needed further instruction. • Priscilla and Aquila obey Matthew 28 by: – Going to Apollos (initiative). – Making a disciple of him (relationship). – Teaching him to observe all Christ commanded (accuracy, fullness). Life-on-Life Discipleship Illustrated • Small-scale setting: “took him aside” suggests private, respectful guidance rather than public correction. • Scriptural depth: “explained the way of God more accurately” implies doctrinal precision, not mere encouragement. • Ongoing mission: Apollos later powerfully refutes the Jews and strengthens believers (vv. 27-28), multiplying the disciple-making chain envisioned in Matthew 28. Principles We Can Apply Today • Seek believers who show promise but need fuller teaching; come alongside them. • Use Scripture as the final authority, ensuring accuracy (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Teach with humility and clarity, aiming for obedience, not just information (James 1:22). • Expect multiplication: the one you disciple will disciple others (2 Timothy 2:2). Supporting Passages That Echo the Connection • Colossians 1:28: “We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” • 2 Timothy 2:2: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.” • Hebrews 10:24-25 reinforces gathering and encouraging one another toward love and good deeds, embodying the discipling environment seen in Acts 18:26 and commanded in Matthew 28:19-20. Bottom Line Acts 18:26 is a living demonstration of Matthew 28:19-20: intentional, Scripture-centered, relational discipleship that equips believers and advances the gospel to the nations—one Apollos at a time. |
    |