Give and take

Acts 18:26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.

Although George Whitefield disagreed with John Wesley on some theological matters, he was careful not to create problems in public that could be used to hinder the preaching of the gospel. When someone asked Whitefield if he thought he would see Wesley in heaven, Whitefield replied, "I fear not, for he will be so near the eternal throne and we at such a distance, we shall hardly get sight of him."

Aquilla and Priscilla heard Apollos preach about Jesus in Corinth. He was a very learned jew with a thorough knowledge of the Scripture. Even then there was something lacking in his knowledge of God to preach and teach in public. Aquila and Priscilla were quick to have a personal time with Apollos to set him right in his preaching and teaching of our Lord. It was such a genuine and big investment yet so silent one. They did not make a hue and cry about his theology in public or defame him. Like a child of God they corrected him in private and Apollos had the humility to accept it and be blessed.

There is a grace of giving and there is a grace of receiving as well. We need to be strong in both of them to be a growing and an effective child of God. Aquila and Priscilla were gentle and smart enough to deal the issue in private. At the same time, Apollos was humble enough to accept the correction. Give and take.

Stanley Thomas Isac

Stanley is serving as the Pastor of Crossway Church in New Delhi, he can be reached at Stanleytisac@gmail.com