Definition: And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together. It's a really important part of the story of early Christianity! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Jesus and his followers were traveling to Rome. Here’s a slightly more detailed explanation: “And found a certain Jew named Aquila…” : This refers to a Jewish man named Aquila. He was a companion of Jesus. “…born in Pontus…” : Pontus is a region in Turkey and southern Georgia, near the Black Sea. It’s where Aquila came from. "...lately come from Italy..." : This tells us he recently traveled to Italy. “with his wife Priscilla;” : Aquila had a wife named Priscilla who was also involved in spreading the word of Jesus. "(because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:)” : This is a crucial part! The Roman Emperor Claudius had issued an order – a command – for all Jewish people in Rome to leave the city. This was a really big and important decree. “and came unto them.” : Aquila and Priscilla were traveling to Rome to meet with people. So, what's the significance? This verse sets the stage for the early church’s journey to Rome. It shows that Jesus had already started his ministry and was preparing to meet with believers in a city that was under an unjust rule. It's a foundational moment in the story of how Christianity began! --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is important? Give you some context about the time period? Or perhaps answer any specific questions you have about it?

Definition: When they desired [him] to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:20. It’s a really important and slightly surprising part of the story. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that Paul was willing to stay longer with the Jewish people, but he refused to do so. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “When they desired [him] to tarry longer time…” – This means the Jewish leaders were asking him to stay longer. They wanted to keep him around for more time. “…he consented not” – This is the key part. He refused to stay longer. What does this mean practically? It’s a bit of a paradox, but it suggests several things: He was focused on his mission: Paul was completely dedicated to spreading the gospel (the good news) and sharing his message with others. Staying longer would have meant spending more time away from his ministry. He wasn't interested in their company: He wasn’t seeking to be involved or comfortable with them. Why is this significant? This verse shows Paul’s unwavering commitment to his purpose. It highlights his strong will and his dedication to the work God gave him. It also hints at a potential challenge – perhaps he was trying to convince them of something, but he wasn't willing to engage in that conversation. In short, this verse is about his obedience and focus on spreading the gospel. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Acts 18? Give you a more detailed explanation of the context surrounding this verse?

Definition: But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:21. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious part of the story! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Paul is saying goodbye to his followers in Ephesus (a city near Smyrna) and promising to return. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But bade them farewell..." : Paul is ending the meal with a gentle goodbye. "...saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem:" He's saying he must continue celebrating this meal – it’s a significant event. He's suggesting it’s important and should continue happening. "But I will return again unto you, if God will." : This is the crucial part. Paul is acknowledging that his journey isn’t over yet. He’s leaving with the intention of returning to these people if God allows . It's a hopeful statement about future reunion. "...and he sailed from Ephesus." This tells us where he started – Ephesus, a city in Turkey. So, what does it all mean? It suggests Paul was traveling with a group of Christians and was facing a difficult situation. He felt compelled to leave, possibly because of some conflict or hardship, but he hoped for the possibility of returning to his community. Important Note: The exact reason for his departure is not fully explained in this verse. It’s a bit mysterious! In short, Paul is expressing a desire to continue his ministry and connect with his followers, leaving behind a meal that's important to them. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail?

Definition: And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:22. It’s a really important part of how Jesus started his ministry in Jerusalem! Here's what it means, explained simply: Basically, Jesus was traveling and settling down in Caesarea. “And when he had landed at Caesarea…” – This means Jesus arrived in the region near Caesarea, which is a city in Italy. “…and gone up…” – He climbed to a higher place, like a hill or mountain. “…and saluted the church…” - He greeted the people who were gathered there – basically, he welcomed them and gave a greeting. “…he went down to Antioch.” – He then traveled further south and headed towards Antioch, which was a major city in Syria. So, it’s like this: Jesus started his journey and settled into a place near the city of Caesarea, then moved on to Antioch as a new starting point for his ministry. What's the significance? It shows that Jesus wasn’t just flying around; he was strategically settling down in a location to prepare for his next steps. It sets up the beginning of his big plan to spread the good news! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a little more context about what happened before or after this passage?

Definition: And after he had spent some time [there], he departed, and went over [all] the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse together! It’s a pretty significant one and it means a lot about Paul’s travels. Here's what it says in simpler terms: “And after he had spent some time [there], he departed, and went over [all] the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.” Here's a breakdown: "After he had spent some time [there]" : This means Paul was already traveling for a while. He wasn’t just starting from scratch. “he departed” : He stopped moving and started going somewhere else. “and went over” : He traveled all across the region of Galatia (a part of modern-day Turkey) and Phrygia (an area in southeastern Turkey). It wasn't just a quick trip; he was covering a large area. “in order” : He did this systematically, one step at a time. “strengthening all the disciples” : This is the really important part! Paul wasn’t just traveling ; he was actively working to help and support his followers. He was making sure they were strong and ready for whatever challenges might come their way. Basically, it means Paul was traveling extensively to spread the Gospel (the good news of Jesus) throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia. What’s the big takeaway? It shows that Paul wasn't just a traveler; he was actively involved in helping and encouraging others to follow Christ. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in Paul’s life? Give you another Bible verse that explores the same theme (like spreading the Gospel)?

Definition: And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, [and] mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:24. It’s a really important introduction to the story of early Christianity! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us about a very influential person who traveled to Ephesus – a city in Turkey – and was involved with the spread of Jesus’ teachings. Let’s unpack it further: “And a certain Jew named Apollos…” : This establishes who the person is. "Jew" in this context usually means Jewish, and "named Apollos" tells us he was a follower of Jesus Christ. “…born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, [and] mighty in the scriptures…” : This describes his background and abilities. Born at Alexandria: He came from a place called Alexandria, which was a major city in Egypt. Eloquent man: He was very good at speaking and explaining things clearly. Mighty in the scriptures: This is a key phrase! “Scriptures” refers to the Jewish holy books like the Old Testament (the Torah, Prophets, and Writings). So, he had a deep understanding of these texts – they were really important to him. “…came to Ephesus.” : He traveled to the city of Ephesus. Ephesus was a significant city in ancient Greece, and it’s where Jesus began his ministry. So, putting it all together: This verse tells us that Apollos, a learned and articulate Jewish man, started traveling to Ephesus – a place where Jesus was starting to preach – and was part of the very beginning of Christianity's spread. Why is this significant? This is a foundational story! It shows that Jesus’ message wasn't just limited to a small group of people; he began to reach out and influence others, even in a city like Ephesus. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Acts 18? Discuss the significance of Ephesus? Or perhaps delve deeper into the meaning of "eloquent man" or "mighty in the scriptures"?

Definition: This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 18:25. It’s a really important part of understanding how Paul started to share his faith. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says: “This man was instructed by God in the way of the Lord, and he spoke and taught with great passion about the things of the Lord – specifically, baptism.” Let’s unpack that a little further: "This man was instructed..." - This means Paul received guidance from God. He wasn't just randomly preaching; someone gave him a specific set of rules or teachings to follow. "...in the way of the Lord..." – “The way of the Lord” refers to following God’s will and principles perfectly. It’s about living according to His plan for his life, which includes loving Him, obeying His laws, and worshipping Him. "...and being fervent in the spirit..." - “Fervent” means passionate, intense, and full of emotion. Paul was really excited about what he was teaching – he wasn't just reciting facts; he was conveying a deep sense of God’s truth. "...he spake and taught diligently..." - He began to speak and teach the Bible in a clear and thorough way. "...the things of the Lord..." - This is key! He was focusing on teaching about Jesus Christ, His teachings, and the importance of baptism. "...knowing only the baptism of John." – This means he primarily taught about the baptism that Jesus himself initiated. He wasn't delving into all aspects of Christianity at this point; his focus was on the fundamental message of repentance and new life through Christ. In short, Paul started to teach about Jesus and the importance of baptism, driven by a deep and passionate faith. Why is this important? This verse shows that God's guidance isn’t just about giving us rules; it’s about leading us towards Him. It’s a crucial step in how Paul began to spread his message of salvation through Jesus Christ. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this verse to a specific story or event in the Bible?

Definition: And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto [them], and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:26. It's a really important part of how Paul starts to share his message! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Paul is starting to speak with authority and passion in a group of people. Let’s unpack it: “And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue…” – This means Paul started speaking clearly and confidently. He wasn't just mumbling or quietly; he was actively sharing his thoughts. “…whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto [them]…” – This is a clever detail! “Aquila” and “Priscilla” are two of Paul’s close friends who were already present at the synagogue. They heard what he was saying. So, they actively chose to bring him with them. "Unto them" means "to them." “…and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” – This is the key part! “Expounded” means to explain or teach something in detail. “The way of God” refers to God’s plan, teaching, and understanding of things. Paul was carefully explaining that plan in a deeper and more complete way than anyone else present. So, putting it all together: Paul started speaking with passion and clarity in the synagogue. He shared his message – about God's love and how he wants to share it with people – with two trusted friends who were already listening. He was trying to teach others more thoroughly and accurately about what God is teaching. Why is this important? This shows that Paul wasn’t just talking randomly. He was actively engaging in a conversation where he was striving to be a good teacher and share his understanding of God's truth. It demonstrates his desire to lead people towards faith and understanding. In short, it's a snapshot of Paul beginning to take the initiative in sharing his message. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage? Relate it to a specific aspect of Paul’s ministry?

Definition: And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 18:27. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage about how the early church responded to Paul. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that after Paul had been traveling around and feeling like he might have to leave, his followers – the disciples – were encouraging him to go to a place called Achaia (which is part of Greece). They wanted him to stay there because they believed he was helping them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia…” This means Paul felt like he might have to leave his current situation – perhaps a place where he was traveling or living. He was thinking about going somewhere else. “…the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him:” "The brethren" refers to Paul’s followers – the people who were with him on his journey. They wrote a message, encouraging the disciples – the ones he was meeting with – to welcome him back. “who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:” This is the key part! "When he was come" means when Paul actually arrived . “helped them much” signifies they were actively supporting and aiding him. "Which had believed through grace" means that those disciples who already believed in God – and had been given a special kind of help from Him – were being especially grateful for his presence. In short, this verse tells us that Paul's followers were incredibly thankful for the faith of people who had already accepted Jesus as their savior. It highlights their desire to welcome him back home because they recognized the positive impact of their belief in God. What does it tell us about Paul and the early church? Gratitude: It shows that the early Christians were deeply grateful for the faith of others, even those who hadn’t fully understood or embraced the message of Jesus yet. Support: It speaks to the importance of supporting and encouraging believers – a fundamental principle in Christianity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this passage might mean in terms of Paul's journey?

Definition: For he mightily convinced the Jews, [and that] publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Acts 18:28. It's a really important and slightly complex verse, but I’ll do my best to explain it simply for you. Here’s what it means in plain terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a dramatic moment where an Apostle, named Saul (which is the name of one of the original leaders), used his words and arguments to convince a group of Jewish people that Jesus was indeed God – specifically, that he was the Messiah, or the Son of God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For he mightily convinced…” : This means Saul wasn't just telling them something; he actively and powerfully persuaded them. He used his skills to make a convincing case. “…the Jews…” : This refers to a specific group of Jewish people – likely the followers of Jesus, but it could also be interpreted as including some skeptical or opposition figures. “…publickly, shewing by the scriptures…” : This is key. “Publicly” means in front of everyone else. "Shewing" means showing something – in this case, presenting evidence and arguments. “By the scriptures” refers to the Jewish laws, traditions, and writings they believed were true. Saul was essentially arguing that Jesus fulfilled those ancient texts and that he was indeed God’s fulfillment. “…that Jesus was Christ.” : This is the core of the message. Saul interpreted a passage in the Old Testament (Jewish scriptures) to say that Jesus wasn't just a man, but the divine Son of God – the very essence of God! In short, Saul’s argument was: “Jesus is the Messiah, and he is God!” He was essentially challenging established beliefs and presenting a new understanding of who Jesus was. Why is this important? This story is significant because it shows: The power of persuasion: Saul's words were effective enough to sway a significant portion of the Jewish community. The importance of Scripture: The verse highlights that the Bible itself – the Jewish scriptures – plays a crucial role in understanding God’s plan and truth. Important Note: It’s important to understand this story within its historical context. Saul was a zealot, and his arguments were controversial. It's not necessarily about proving Jesus as God, but rather presenting a new interpretation of scripture that challenged existing beliefs. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Talk about why this story is still relevant today?