In a world where knowledge abounds but not much guidance is given, mentorship is a gem that believers should take seriously. While a personal relationship with God is the basis and must be a priority, mentorship is a gift from God that, when harnessed properly, will help to finetune the raw gifts that we may have in us.
In Acts 18:24, we see Apollos, who the Bible recorded as a man mighty in the scriptures but lacking in understanding. He only knew the gospel of John, and when Aquila and Priscilla noticed, they called him aside and taught him. After the correction, he became an asset to them at Corinth, and when he moved to Achaia, they wrote a letter to the disciples there to receive him, and he was of great help to them there.
Furthermore, as Paul was in Ephesus, God performed many miracles through him, such that even handkerchiefs and aprons healed the sick. The Jews then began to perform exorcism using the name of Christ, copying Paul in the way he casts out devils. Part of them were the seven sons of Sceva who, in attempting to exorcise demons using the name of Jesus, got beaten and stripped naked.
They didn’t understand that the name of Jesus isn’t just a magic word to be used for personal gain; rather, they need to believe and develop a personal relationship with God (Mark 16:17) before exhibiting gifts of the spirit.
Reflection: The motive behind doing the work of ministry is love for God and love for people.
Today’s reading
Deuteronomy 20-22
“When you go out to battle against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and people more numerous than you, do not be afraid of them; for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. So it shall be, when you are on the verge of battle, that the priest shall approach and speak to the people.
And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them;
Acts 18:24-19:20
Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus.
This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.
So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately.