Today’s Scripture…
A man named Apollos came to Ephesus. He was a Jew, born in Alexandria, Egypt, and a terrific speaker, eloquent and powerful in his preaching of the Scriptures. He was well-educated in the way of the Master and fiery in his enthusiasm. Apollos was accurate in everything he taught about Jesus up to a point, but he only went as far as the baptism of John. He preached with power in the meeting place. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and told him the rest of the story…. Apollos turned out to be a great help to those who had become believers through God’s immense generosity. He was particularly effective in public debate with the Jews as he brought out proof after convincing proof from the Scriptures that Jesus was in fact God’s Messiah. Acts 18:24-28 (MSG)
Devotional Thought…
As you think about going to church this Sunday, are you going with a teachable spirit?
Sometimes, folks go to church intent on “knowing what they know that they know” and intent on refuting anything that might challenge that. Apollos was someone who certainly knew a lot when it came to Jesus, and could effectively communicate it. But a discerning couple name Priscilla and Aquila realized he still had something to learn. They lovingly shared things with Apollos that he didn’t know, Apollos was teachable, and the result was that Apollos became a sharper tool in God’s toolbox.
Realizing there is a difference between personal preferences and Godly doctrines is a big part of being teachable. God may want to teach or refine your understanding of doctrine, just as He did with Apollos. God may also want you to lay down a personal preference so that He is able to accomplish something new and needed through the church. Both of these scenarios begin with us having a teachable heart with the Lord. Entering your Bible study class or the Worship hour with a teachable spirit is a vital part of the sharpening God wants to do on each of us during our church gatherings.
Talk to the Lord about your teach-able-ness (or lack thereof). If you are aware of a tendency toward spiritual pride or realize that you are puffed up in your knowledge, ask God to soften your heart. Ask for an openness to receive anything that He might want to teach you that would allow you to more effectively accomplish His will.
