THEY PUT THEMSELVES in a position to win souls (Acts 18.26)…

Apollos was speaking in the synagogue.  Where were Aquila and Priscilla?  Where are good prospects to be found? Anywhere!  But there are some places where they might be more likely found: visiting our assemblies, attending community Bible studies, and volunteering for charitable organizations.

They knew where their prospect stood and what he believed (Acts 18.25).  We can be so eager to share what we know that we have no idea what others believe, understand, or need.

They listened (Acts 18.26).  Notice this preceded teaching him.

They apparently were not timid or easily intimidated (Acts 18.26).  Apollos was no slouch in his level of knowledge, but they were not afraid to talk with him (1 Peter 3.15; 2 Timothy 2.15).

They knew how to use common sense in evangelism (Acts 18.26).  They understood “taking him aside” would neither embarrass him nor put him in a defensive posture.  They were tactful.

They clearly communicated (Acts 18.26).  They explained.  We must avoid assumption or presumption when we teach.

They undoubtedly possessed the grace of patience (Acts 18.26).  In Bible studies, we will inevitably have to “explain” God’s Word “more accurately.”  It is easy to forget that what we know we acquired over a long period of time.  It takes “prospects” time and teaching to attain to it.  They might not “get” it immediately or the first time they hear it.

They had vision.  They saw a man with many assets and passion for the Lord.  They might have thrown up their hands and given up, but instead they led him to the truth and the church gained one of its most eloquent preachers!  (The Daily Bread, “The Evangelistic Approach of Aquila and Priscilla”)

“So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue.  When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more perfectly.”  Acts 18.26

Mike Benson