Definition: After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:1. It's a really important starting point in the story of how Paul gets involved with Christianity! Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, Paul was leaving Athens and heading to Corinth. Let’s unpack that a little more: “After these things” : This just means after something happened before. It's like saying “following this event” or “in the course of this.” “Paul departed from Athens” : This tells us Paul was leaving the city where he’d been living – Athens – and traveling somewhere else. “and came to Corinth” : This is where he finally landed in a new place called Corinth. So, it's like this: Paul had already been preaching and sharing his faith in Athens, but he decided to move on to explore other opportunities and connect with people. Why is this important? It’s the beginning of his journey as an Apostle – a leader called by God to spread the good news of Jesus Christ! --- Do you want me to: Explain why Paul was leaving Athens? (Maybe he was feeling overwhelmed or had a specific reason?) Give you some context about Corinth? (It was a major city in ancient Greece.) Or, do you have any other questions about this verse?

Definition: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:10. It's a really important message about God’s presence and protection! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “I am with you, and I’m not going to be hurt by anyone. I have a lot of people here in this city who are trusting in me.” Let's unpack it further: "I am with thee..." : This is a very comforting phrase. It means God is actively involved in the lives of those around him. He’s not just watching from afar; he’s present and supportive. "...and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee:" This is crucial. It's saying that God actively protects people. He doesn't just offer a general blessing – he’s actively preventing harm. “Set on” means to target or pursue someone with malice. "for I have much people in this city." : This emphasizes the significance of the community. The verse highlights that there is a large and growing group of people who are drawn to God's message and are trusting in him. The bigger picture: This verse comes from a time when Paul was preaching in Philippi, a city. It speaks to his incredible care for those he was reaching – the believers, the newcomers, and everyone else. It’s a powerful reminder that God doesn't leave us vulnerable; He’s actively safeguarding us. In essence, it’s a declaration of God’s presence, protection, and love. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a broader context?

Definition: And he continued [there] a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:11: “And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this describes a long period of ministry. “He continued…” : This tells us that someone was actively working and dedicated to sharing the message of Jesus. “…a year and six months…” : This is a significant amount of time – it wasn’t just a quick visit or a one-time event. It was a sustained effort. “teaching the word of God among them” : This means they were actively sharing God's message with people in that community. They weren't just preaching to themselves; they were inviting others to hear and understand it. What’s the overall meaning? It suggests that this person was a dedicated missionary or evangelist – someone who traveled and preached the good news of Jesus throughout a considerable period. It shows a consistent commitment to spreading God's message. In short, they were consistently working to share the Bible with people. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this is significant (perhaps in terms of its historical context)? Give you an example of how this might have looked like?

Definition: And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 18:12. It's a really important moment in early Christianity. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Paul is Traveling: Paul was traveling through Greece, visiting cities like Thessalonica and Athens. Jewish Rebellion: As he traveled, Jewish people (the followers of Jesus) started to plot against him. They were upset that he was preaching about Jesus and influencing people. They Made a Plan: They decided to rebel – to throw a party or celebration against Paul! Judgment at Hand: This rebellion led to a confrontation where they brought Paul before the Jewish leaders. It's like a trial, but it wasn’t about punishment; it was about a judgment. What Did They Do? They essentially attacked him. They wanted to stop him from sharing his message of faith and love. “The Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul…” This means they united in their opposition – they all agreed to try and stop him. It was a coordinated effort. “And brought him to the judgment seat” This is where it gets a bit more complex, but essentially: Judgment Seat: The Jewish leaders decided to put Paul through a trial or judgment. They were trying to figure out if he was a threat and if he needed to be stopped. So, what’s the big takeaway? This passage highlights that even though Paul was preaching about Jesus, he faced resistance and opposition from within the Jewish community. It shows that it wasn't just him fighting against them; there was also conflict within the Jewish people themselves. It's a reminder that faith isn’t always easy – sometimes, people disagree with what you believe. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Give you more context about Paul’s journey or the situation in Greece?

Definition: Saying, This [fellow] persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 18:13. It’s a really important and slightly complex passage about how Paul and Barnus (a young man named Barnus) challenged people's beliefs. Here’s a simple explanation: The Core of the Verse: “Saying, This [fellow] persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.” What it Means – Explained Simply: “This fellow” : Paul and Barnus were two people who were arguing with a group of people. “Persuades men” : They weren’t just talking; they were trying to convince others to change their minds . They were actively trying to lead people towards something different. “To worship God contrary to the law” : This is the key part. The Bible says that Paul and Barnus were arguing with a group of people who were rejecting God’s rules (the law). Specifically, they were arguing against worshipping God in the way the Jewish people did – following the laws and traditions set by Moses. They were suggesting something different – perhaps a more personal or spiritual understanding of God. In a Nutshell: Paul and Barnus were challenging a group of people to reject what they believed was wrong with the established religious practices, specifically by arguing against worshipping God according to the Jewish law. Why it’s Significant: This verse shows that Paul and Barnus weren't just disagreeing; they were actively trying to change things. It’s a moment where they pushed for a different understanding of faith and worship. It's often seen as a catalyst for the events that led to the division within the early church. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of challenging established beliefs without careful consideration or respect for God's law. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you more context around this passage? Discuss its significance in a specific part of the Bible?

Definition: And when Paul was now about to open [his] mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O [ye] Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:14. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising part of Paul's early ministry. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Paul was about to speak – he was about to deliver a speech or presentation. He was pausing, considering what he was going to say. What Gallio Says: Gallio, a Roman official, was speaking to the Jewish community. Gallio said something like this: “If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, I would bear with you.” What It Means – The Key Insight: Gallio was a Roman Official: He was a high-ranking officer in the Roman government, and he had authority over Jewish communities. “Wrong or Wicked Lewdness” - A Sensitive Topic: Gallio was suggesting that Paul’s message could be problematic for Jewish people – perhaps it wasn’t appropriate for them to listen to him. This phrase is a bit archaic and suggests something considered inappropriate, possibly related to sexual behavior or moral wrong. Gallio's Response: He was basically saying, “I would bear with you” - meaning he wouldn’t oppose Paul or his message. Why This Matters – It’s a Big Revelation: This is a huge moment because it shows that Paul wasn’t immediately facing opposition from the Jewish authorities. He wasn't being challenged for his beliefs or his message. He was essentially being granted permission to speak and deliver his message without fear of trouble. The Significance: This verse is significant because it demonstrates Paul’s incredible grace and freedom. It shows that God allowed him to be able to preach the gospel (the good news) even in a challenging situation, showing that God is willing to show mercy and allow people to share their faith. --- In short, this verse tells us that Paul was granted permission to speak, despite being in a potentially difficult situation, thanks to God’s favor. Do you want me to elaborate on any part of this explanation or perhaps discuss the context surrounding this passage?

Definition: But if it be a question of words and names, and [of] your law, look ye [to it]; for I will be no judge of such [matters].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:15. It’s a really important statement about how the Apostle Paul approaches biblical issues. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Paul is saying: “Don't get too hung up on trying to prove things through rules or interpretations of the Bible. Focus instead on understanding the core message and applying it to real life.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “But if it be a question of words and names…” – This is saying, “If someone is arguing about what the Bible says, using specific phrases or names, I'm not going to get involved in a debate about those things.” It’s acknowledging there might be disagreements about interpretation. “[of] your law” – This refers to following the rules and regulations set by human authorities or traditions. “Look ye [to it]; for I will be no judge of such [matters].” – This is the core of the message. Paul is saying, “Instead of focusing on proving things through laws, study them. Don't criticize or judge them. Just consider what the Bible says . My role is to guide people towards truth, not to set up rules for them.” In a nutshell: Paul’s advocating for a more practical and trusting approach to interpreting Scripture - focusing on the meaning of the words rather than getting bogged down in trying to prove or debate them. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes that the Bible itself is the ultimate authority, and we should rely on its teachings to guide us, not on our own interpretations or judgments. --- Would you like me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Give you an example of how this principle applies to everyday life?

Definition: And he drave them from the judgment seat.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 18:16: “And he drave them from the judgment seat.” Here’s what it means in plain language: This is a dramatic and somewhat unsettling passage about a powerful moment. It describes a scene where Peter was speaking to a group of people – likely believers – and then, unexpectedly, he caused them to leave. Let's unpack the parts: “He drave them…” This means he actively pushed or directed them away. It wasn’t just that they walked off on their own accord; he actively moved them. “…from the judgment seat.” This is the key part. "Judgment seat" refers to a special, holy place where God judges people – often in the context of righteousness and sin. So, putting it together: Peter was speaking to these people, and he forced them to leave the area where God’s judgment was occurring. It suggests a powerful moment of confrontation or perhaps a dramatic shift in his teaching or message. What does this verse tell us about Peter? It's often interpreted as a sign that Peter was challenging or confronting someone with serious consequences, and he used his words to lead them away from those consequences. It’s also significant because it highlights the power of his preaching and the potential for conflict. Important Note: This is a relatively complex verse, and different interpretations exist within biblical studies. However, this explanation aims to provide a clear and understandable understanding of its meaning. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Provide context about the story behind this passage? Discuss potential interpretations or meanings?

Definition: Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat [him] before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 18:17. It’s a really important part of understanding Paul's ministry in early Christianity. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Sosthenes is Being Persecuted: Sosthenes was a Jewish leader in the synagogue in Philippi. He was being unfairly treated and beaten up by some Greeks. The Greeks Take Him Away: The Greek community, who were primarily Jews, were upset with him. They took him away from the synagogue and beat him severely. Gallio is Helping: Gallio, a Roman governor’s advisor, was present and concerned about Sosthenes. He didn't actively participate in the beating, but he did take care of Sosthenes – essentially offering him protection and support. What it Means - A Broad Interpretation: This verse speaks to a key aspect of Paul’s mission: He wasn’t just preaching to Jewish people. It tells us that Paul was actively working with Gentiles (non-Jewish people) in ways that were often controversial for the time. Gentiles Were Allowed to Worship God: In ancient times, Jews only had access to the Torah (the Jewish law). However, throughout history, many cultures and groups began worshipping gods and deities independently. Paul's Strategy - Showing Jesus Was Important: Paul was essentially saying, "Even though these people didn’t follow Jewish traditions, Jesus Christ is important enough to be considered the God of all people." By helping Sosthenes, Paul was demonstrating that Christianity wasn’t just for Jews. He was showing that the message of Jesus – love, forgiveness, and salvation – was relevant to everyone, regardless of their background. In short, it's about Paul recognizing that God’s love and grace extend beyond Jewish people and is open to all. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore the context of this passage within the book of Acts? Discuss why this story is significant for understanding Paul's early ministry?

Definition: And Paul [after this] tarried [there] yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn [his] head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:18. It’s a really significant part of Paul's early ministry! Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, Paul was staying in that location for a while and then leaving. Let’s unpack each part: “And Paul [after this] tarried [there] yet a good while…” - This is like saying “After this,” so he was still in the same place. "Tarried there” means he stayed for a period of time, possibly a few days or even weeks. It’s not a quick stop; he lingered. “…and then took his leave of the brethren…” - He left the group of people he was with – the early believers in Jerusalem. “And sailed thence into Syria…” - He set sail from that location and headed towards Syria. Syria is a region in Asia. “…and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn [his] head in Cenchrea:” – This is the key part! “Having shorn his head” is a really unusual phrase in the Bible. It means he cut off his hair as a symbol of sacrifice and repentance. It’s a powerful image - it signifies that he was offering himself to God, willingly giving up something precious for his own purpose. “for he had a vow.” – He made a solemn promise or commitment before God. So, what's the big picture? This verse tells us that Paul was in a temporary situation, perhaps seeking guidance or support from others. He then took a break to focus on his spiritual journey and make a commitment to God. It’s a moment of sacrifice and self-reliance. Why is this important? Paul's dedication: This shows how deeply Paul was committed to his mission – to spread the gospel (the good news about Jesus). Community: It highlights that he wasn't isolated; he was seeking fellowship with others. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, or perhaps explore a related passage? For example, we could talk about: The meaning of "shorn his head" What the purpose of this temporary stay might have been for Paul The significance of Priscilla and Aquila’s presence