In what ways can we "speak accurately" to reflect Christ's truth? Key Verse “...he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. But when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him in and explained the way of God to him more accurately.” (Acts 18:26) Apollos—A Living Illustration • A gifted communicator “well-versed in the Scriptures” (v. 24) • “Fervent in spirit” yet still limited in understanding (v. 25) • Humbly received correction, then went on to serve even more effectively (vv. 27-28) What “Speak Accurately” Involves • Alignment with the written Word—never contradicts Scripture (2 Timothy 2:15) • Precision about who Christ is and what He has done (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) • Integrity between message and lifestyle (Philippians 1:27) • Dependence on the Spirit for clarity and power (1 Corinthians 2:4-5) Practical Steps to Greater Accuracy 1. Immerse in the Text – Daily reading and meditating (Psalm 1:2) – Memorize passages that anchor key doctrines (Psalm 119:11) 2. Welcome God-given Teachers – Listen to pastors, commentaries, and trusted mentors as Apollos did with Priscilla and Aquila – Test everything against Scripture (Acts 17:11) 3. Sharpen with Community – Discuss passages in small groups; iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17) – Invite correction; humility protects from blind spots (Proverbs 9:9) 4. Guard the Tongue – “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth” (Ephesians 4:29) – Speak truth “in love” (Ephesians 4:15) so tone matches content 5. Pray for Illumination – Ask the Spirit to “guide you into all truth” (John 16:13) before and during conversations Barriers That Distort Our Words • Pride—refusing input or assuming mastery • Ignorance—neglecting study, relying on clichés • Fear of rejection—watering down hard truths (Galatians 1:10) • Careless speech—talking before listening (James 1:19) Motivations for Speaking Accurately • Christ’s reputation is at stake (2 Corinthians 5:20) • Souls depend on a clear gospel (Romans 10:14) • We will give an account for every idle word (Matthew 12:36) Supporting Scriptures • Colossians 4:6—“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt…” • 1 Peter 3:15—“…always be ready to give a defense…with gentleness and respect.” • Proverbs 18:21—“Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” Everyday Application • When asked about life choices, tie answers to biblical truth rather than personal opinion. • In social media posts, verify Scripture references before sharing. • During conflict, pause to rehearse truth internally so responses flow from Scripture, not emotion. • Teach children or new believers by reading the passage aloud, defining terms, and showing how it points to Christ. Summary Like Apollos, we grow from enthusiastic yet incomplete understanding to precise, Spirit-empowered testimony when we study the Word, embrace correction, and guard our speech. Accurate words about Jesus glorify Him and draw listeners to the truth that sets them free (John 8:32). |
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