Welcome to Acts 18

Acts 18 chronicles a crucial and extended period in Paul's second missionary journey, focusing primarily on his foundational ministry in the strategic city of Corinth. This chapter powerfully demonstrates the unstoppable advance of The Great Commission amidst both acceptance and persistent Christianity Accepted and Opposed, leading to the establishment of a robust Christian community. Upon arriving in Corinth, a bustling Roman provincial capital and a nexus of trade and diverse cultures, Paul, practicing his trade as a tentmaker, finds lodging and ministry partnership with Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish believers recently expelled from Rome by Emperor Claudius. Their collaboration underscores the practical and communal aspects of early Christian life and ministry.

Initially, Paul preaches Teaching About Jesus and the Gospel in the synagogue every Sabbath, earnestly persuading both Jews and Greeks. However, as was often his pattern, when the Jews vehemently opposed and blasphemed, Paul decisively turned his focus to the Gentiles, declaring his hands clean of their blood. Despite this rejection from some, God provides direct divine reassurance in a night vision, a clear manifestation of The Holy Spirit's Role: "Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city" (Acts 18:9-10). This divine promise empowers Paul to remain in Corinth for eighteen months, establishing a strong church. During this time, even Crispus, the synagogue leader, believes with his entire household.

The chapter highlights a significant encounter with Roman authority when the Jews bring Paul before Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, accusing him of persuading people to worship God contrary to the Law. Gallio, however, dismisses the case as a matter of Jewish religious law, demonstrating Rome's initial non-interference with internal Jewish disputes that included Christian teachings. This judicial non-intervention provides a brief period of relative peace, crucial for the Gospel's growth. After his lengthy stay, Paul sails for Syria, fulfilling a Nazirite vow in Cenchrea before arriving in Ephesus with Priscilla and Aquila. He briefly teaches in the Ephesian synagogue before continuing to Caesarea and ultimately returning to Antioch, thereby bringing his second missionary journey to a close at Acts 18:22. This completion sets the stage for new journeys, demonstrating Connecting Acts to the Rest of the NT through the continuous unfolding of God's redemptive plan.