How does Acts 18:27 connect with Ephesians 2:8-9 on grace and faith? Scripture Focus Acts 18:27 — “On his arrival, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed.” Ephesians 2:8-9 — “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” Grace Highlighted in Both Passages • Acts records real believers in Achaia who had already “believed” because grace first acted on them. • Ephesians explains how that same grace brings salvation to every sinner who believes. • Luke’s historical note and Paul’s doctrinal statement agree: grace is the initiating, enabling power behind every true conversion. Faith as the Receiving Hand • Acts speaks of believers—people who exercised faith. • Ephesians spells out that faith is the channel (“through faith”) by which grace’s gift is received. • The sequence is identical: God offers grace → people respond in faith → salvation results (cf. John 1:12-13; Romans 5:1-2). Grace-Protected Humility • “Not of yourselves… not by works” (Ephesians 2:8-9) guards against boasting. • Acts shows Apollos “helping” those believers, not congratulating them on their own merit. Their story centers on what God did, not on what they achieved. • Both passages keep the spotlight on Christ’s accomplishment (Titus 3:5-7). Practical Takeaways for Today • Rest: Salvation never depends on our performance; grace provided it, faith receives it. • Unity: All Christians share the same grace-based entry into God’s family, fostering mutual encouragement like that given to Apollos. • Witness: When sharing the gospel, emphasize God’s gracious initiative and invite hearers to respond in faith. |
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