Acts 18:1-11
A number of different thoughts running through my mind… First, Paul rejects the Jews and says that he’s going to the Gentiles (v. 6). Then we see Crispus, the leader of the synagogue, turning to faith (v. 8) and Paul moving in with Titius Justus, whose house was next to the synagogue. So even if Paul rejected the Jews, he was still readily available to them. And very possibly, many of the Corinthians who believed (v. 8) could have been Jews.
Second, when Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul seems to have stopped tentmaking – but that’s a bit confusing. The ESV says When Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, Paul was occupied with the word (v. 5a), but that translation falls short of the NASB: …Paul began devoting himself completely to the word… So, did he quit work completely? And did Silas and Timothy then begin working? Small matter…!
Finally, I am intrigued by the Lord’s encouragement to Paul: Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you… (vv. 9b-10a) Evidently Paul was still afraid, but of what? My guess is that he might still be fearing the Jews from Macedonia who had wanted to bring him before the Roman authorities with a count of treason against him (Acts 17:6-7). Even though he was a Roman citizen, his citizenship could not protect him if he were found guilty of treason. But, for whatever reason, the Lord’s words must have been encouraging to him. And yes, as always, there’s an application for us. So often we don’t know what someone else is going through, but whether good times or bad a word of encouragement is always helpful. Bad times can be lifted and good times can be made to soar. Encourage one another. Do it!!
Slava Bohu!