The Eloquent Student Who Still Had Homework
In Acts 18, we meet Apollos, a man described as “an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well” (Acts 18:24, NLT). He spoke with confidence about Jesus, but his understanding was limited—he only knew about John’s baptism. It’s fascinating that someone so well-spoken and knowledgeable could still have gaps in his teaching. Priscilla and Aquila, two early followers of Jesus, noticed this and invited him into conversation, helping him deepen his understanding of the message he was already proclaiming (Acts 18:26).
What stands out here is not only Apollos’ eloquence but his willingness to listen. The text doesn’t tell us if this correction was awkward, but it’s easy to imagine how humbling it might have been for a skilled teacher to realize he didn’t have the full story. Instead of resisting, Apollos accepted their input and grew from it. Soon after, he went on to teach with even greater clarity and conviction, “refuting the Jews with powerful arguments in public debate” (Acts 18:28, NLT).
Lessons in Quiet Mentorship
This dynamic between Apollos and Priscilla and Aquila raises interesting questions about learning and authority. Apollos was already respected and admired, yet he still had more to learn. It’s easy to see ourselves in that position—how often do we speak or act with confidence, only to discover later that our knowledge is incomplete? This story seems to suggest that humility is essential, not just for students but for teachers, too.
It’s also notable that Priscilla and Aquila took the time to teach him privately. Instead of publicly criticizing or challenging him, they invited him into a conversation. There’s a quiet respect in this approach. Apollos’ openness to correction and their thoughtful guidance form a partnership that strengthens the early Christian movement.
Big Lessons in Small Moments
Thinking about this story today, it’s a reminder that growth often comes from unexpected sources. Even experts need input. Even strong voices benefit from quiet conversations. In a world that often rewards confidence and certainty, Apollos’ example shows the strength it takes to admit what you don’t know and to listen deeply.
This scene also highlights the value of informal mentorship. Priscilla and Aquila weren’t apostles or public figures, yet they played a key role in shaping a gifted teacher’s influence. Their willingness to invest in Apollos behind the scenes shows that learning communities are built not just through big moments but also through small, thoughtful interactions.
A Story That Still Challenges Our Ego
Apollos’ story is just a few verses long, but it gives us a lot to consider about how we learn, teach, and grow. It prompts us to think about how we respond when someone quietly points out gaps in our understanding. Do we welcome correction as he did, or do we hold onto our confidence at the expense of growth? The humility and openness in this moment create a powerful picture of how ideas and communities can flourish when people are willing to learn from one another.