July 14, 2011 - Acts 18:27

“When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed.” Acts 18:27.
Apollos was having great success in Ephesus, preaching the good news concerning Jesus. He now had a more full understanding about the work of the Holy Spirit, having been taught by Priscilla and Aquila. He sensed that he should travel on to the region of Achaia. This is the region in Greece where Corinth is located. Apollos evidently did not desire to go without the consent of the brothers in Ephesus. These brothers showed their consent to Apollos by encouraging him and writing a letter of introduction to the followers of Jesus in Achaia.
What I found interesting about this verse was Apollos’ submission of his trip to Achaia to the spiritual leadership in Ephesus. These brothers did not appear to function alone or individually. They recognized that their strength and protection lay in seeking the Lord’s guidance as a community rather than relying on their own personal insight. This sense of being sent out with the blessing of the leadership provided a base of support that would carry Apollos through difficult times ahead.
This is definitely not the way it is in today’s culture, where the individual is more important than the community. Personal independence and freedom are lifted up as the way we should live. We rely on our own instincts more than submitting our will to a group of people or a community. This was quite a trip for Apollos and it certainly appears that he relied on the voice of the community for guidance in his life.
Questions to consider: How do you function in a spiritual community? Is there a group of people with whom you can discuss your important decisions? Is it more important for you to function independently or in a community?
Prayer: Father, help me to recognize the importance of connecting with some trusted people when discussing big decisions. Please remind me that “in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Remind me to not act alone, but to build relationships of trust with others. Amen.