Acts 18:28 – “For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.”

Extended Explanation

This verse describes Apollos, a bold and knowledgeable teacher, as he powerfully defended the gospel in public debates. He was refuting Jewish opponents, meaning he was arguing against those who rejected Jesus as the Messiah.

The phrase “vigorously refuted” suggests that Apollos was strong and convincing in his arguments. He didn’t just share his personal opinion—he used Scripture to prove that Jesus was the promised Messiah.

This shows us two important things about Apollos:

1. He was well-trained in the Scriptures – Apollos knew the Old Testament deeply and could connect it to Jesus.
2. He was bold in proclaiming the truth – He didn’t shy away from difficult conversations; instead, he stood firm and defended the gospel.

This verse highlights the power of knowing God’s Word. Apollos didn’t rely on feelings or emotions—he used solid biblical truth to show that Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Historical Context

• Apollos had recently arrived in Achaia (specifically Corinth) – After being discipled by Priscilla and Aquila, he went to Corinth (Acts 18:27). Corinth was a major city in Greece, known for its intellectual debates and philosophical discussions.
• Jewish opposition to the gospel was common – Many Jews in the first century rejected Jesus as the Messiah because they expected a different kind of savior—one who would overthrow Rome, not die on a cross.
• Public debates were a common way of teaching – In cities like Corinth, philosophers and teachers would engage in open discussions, debating different beliefs. Apollos used this method to defend the gospel.

Theological Implications

1. The Bible is the foundation for proving truth – Apollos didn’t rely on human wisdom; he used Scripture to show that Jesus is the Messiah. This teaches us that our faith must be rooted in God’s Word, not just personal experiences or opinions.
2. Defending the faith is important – Christianity isn’t just about personal belief; it’s about being able to explain and defend what we believe to others (1 Peter 3:15).
3. Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy – Apollos connected the Old Testament with Jesus, showing that the Bible is one unified story that points to Christ.

Literary Analysis

This verse has a clear structure that emphasizes the power of Apollos’ teaching:

• “For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents” – This shows that Apollos was bold and persuasive in his arguments.
• “In public debate” – Highlights the public nature of his ministry. He was not just discussing privately but engaging in open conversations to spread the gospel.
• “Proving from the Scriptures” – This phrase emphasizes that his teaching was based on the Bible, not his own ideas.
• “That Jesus was the Messiah” – The central message of Christianity is that Jesus is the promised Savior, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament.

Luke, the author of Acts, presents Apollos as a powerful and effective teacher, showing how God equips His people to spread the truth.

Biblical Cross-References

• Luke 24:27 – “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” (Jesus Himself used the Old Testament to prove He was the Messiah.)
• 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (Apollos was an example of this.)
• Isaiah 53:3-5 – A prophecy about the suffering Messiah, which Apollos likely used to show Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises.
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (Apollos understood the authority of Scripture and used it in his teaching.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. We should know the Bible well – Apollos was able to defend the gospel because he knew Scripture deeply. Every Christian should study God’s Word to grow in understanding.
2. Faith isn’t just personal—it should be shared – Apollos boldly spoke about Jesus in public settings. We are also called to share and defend our faith when opportunities arise.
3. The gospel is logical and defensible – Christianity isn’t just about emotions; it’s built on historical and biblical truth. Apollos proved Jesus was the Messiah using evidence from Scripture.
4. We should be ready to answer objections – People will have questions and challenges about Christianity. Like Apollos, we should be prepared to give thoughtful and biblical answers.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He provides teachers and leaders to help explain and defend the truth. Apollos was not left alone to figure things out—God equipped him and gave him opportunities to share the gospel.

This also shows that God’s love is based on truth. He doesn’t ask us to follow Him blindly—He gives us His Word, evidence, and reason to strengthen our faith.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy – Apollos’ main message was that Jesus is the Messiah promised in Scripture. This is the heart of the gospel.
2. Jesus calls us to proclaim the truth boldly – Just as Apollos publicly defended the faith, Jesus also openly proclaimed the kingdom of God (John 18:37).
3. Jesus empowers His followers to speak the truth – Apollos was able to preach powerfully because the Holy Spirit was working in him. Jesus promised that His followers would be given wisdom and words when they share the gospel (Luke 12:11-12).

Apollos’ ministry is a reflection of Jesus’ own mission—to reveal the truth and call people to faith in God.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How well do you know the Bible? Could you defend your faith if someone challenged it?
2. Are you bold like Apollos in sharing your faith, or do you hesitate? What holds you back?
3. What steps can you take to grow in your knowledge of Scripture so you can share and defend the gospel better?
4. How can you help others understand the truth about Jesus, just as Apollos did?
5. Do you see Christianity as logical and evidence-based, or do you rely more on emotions? How does this verse challenge you to deepen your faith?