Acts 18:26 “So he (Apollos) 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 accurately.”  NKJV

As I packed for the trip, I found myself anxious over the lack of leniency epitomizing the country to which I was heading. So, I thoroughly researched their culture and rules. (Side note: If rule-following were an Olympic sport, pretty sure I would be a medal contender, for strict rule-adherence is in my DNA!) Aware I would be speaking at several large celebratory functions, I packed a simple, yet extremely conservative black dress.

On the day of the event, I donned my long black dress and waited outside the hotel to be picked up for the celebration. The glares from those on the street made me uncomfortable, but even worse was the noticeable expression on my host’s face when he arrived.

A feeling that something was wrong continued throughout the party. Unaccustomed to being a guest of honor at any event, I could only hope those stares and whispers were a normal occurrence for honorees. However, soon a woman approached and asked to speak privately with me. We stepped away from the crowd and she sweetly informed me that the color black, in their culture, was considered the color of death and should NEVER be worn at celebrations of any type. In addition, the modesty of my long, conservative dress was questioned. So, spite of all my rule-research, nothing seemed appropriate about my attire.

Although embarrassed, I found myself indebted to this woman for her gracious guidance. She could have chosen to shame me publicly, yet she addressed my indiscretion kindly and privately, saving me much future embarrassment.

In scripture, Aquila and Priscilla extended Apollos this same generous grace. Apollos, as guest of honor, was speaking in the synagogue, yet misrepresenting truth. No Jew in his audience would have criticized a public humiliation of Apollos. However, the hearts of Aquila and Priscilla leaned toward mercy. They pulled him aside in private and offered correction that held no ridicule nor anger, only the kindness of guidance. Their generous grace encouraged Apollos to continue spreading the Good News, but this time in truth. A public humiliation may have discouraged him to the point of walking away from ministry.

There is much to be learned from this brief encounter with Aquila and Priscilla. Complaining, griping, and criticizing are often fundamental traits of humanity. Handling confrontation with grace is tricky. But, Sisters, there is never a wrong time to show kindness. As we settle our differences, placing aside our own desires to focus on God’s purposes will help us avoid confrontation and allow God to be glorified. Thank you, Aquila and Priscilla, for reminding us of the transforming power of generous grace.

Father God, help us set aside our pride and focus on generous grace.

Blessings,

Rita Cochrane